Maple Pecan Baked Brie
Maple Pecan Baked Brie is a delightful, gooey wheel of creamy brie cheese topped with sweet maple syrup and crunchy toasted pecans. It’s the perfect mix of smooth, sweet, and…
Tip: save now, cook later.Maple Pecan Baked Brie is a delightful, gooey wheel of creamy brie cheese topped with sweet maple syrup and crunchy toasted pecans. It’s the perfect mix of smooth, sweet, and nutty all baked together until warm and melty. Just one bite feels like a cozy little celebration for your taste buds.
I love making this when friends come over because it’s simple to prepare but always feels fancy. A quick tip: make sure you let the brie sit out at room temperature for a bit before baking so it gets extra soft and oozy. The combination of maple and pecans gives it a gentle sweetness that balances the rich cheese just right.
My favorite way to serve it is right out of the oven with crunchy crackers or slices of crusty bread for dipping. It’s such a fun appetizer that everyone always asks for more. Whether it’s a holiday party or just a cozy night in, this baked brie never fails to bring smiles and a little extra warmth to the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: This soft cheese is the heart of the dish. I like using a whole small wheel for easy serving. If you want, Camembert is a great alternative with a similar creamy texture.
Pecans: Pecans add a lovely crunch and rich flavor. Walnuts or almonds work well too if pecans aren’t available.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives sweetness and depth. Honey can be swapped in but it will change the flavor slightly, making it a bit warmer and floral.
Butter: Used to toast and coat the nuts, butter adds richness. For a dairy-free option, try coconut oil or olive oil.
Rosemary: The fresh herbs bring a subtle earthy note. Thyme or sage are good substitutions or you can skip it if you prefer a simpler taste.
How Do You Get Brie Perfectly Gooey Without Melting It Too Much?
Timing and temperature are key when baking Brie to get it soft but not runny. Here’s what works best:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), a moderate temperature to warm the cheese evenly.
- Score the top rind lightly to help heat reach inside without the cheese spilling out.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are soft and the center is creamy when pressed gently.
- Keep an eye on it carefully near the end to avoid it becoming fully melted and difficult to serve.
- Let it cool for a couple of minutes before serving, which helps it set just right for dipping.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – great for holding the Brie while it bakes and catching any drips.
- Parchment paper – stops the Brie from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Small skillet – perfect for toasting the pecans and warming the maple syrup together.
- Sharp knife – helps you score the Brie rind without cutting through the cheese.
- Serving platter – something to present the Brie with crackers and fruit.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pecans for toasted walnuts or sliced almonds for a different nutty crunch.
- Add a spoonful of cranberry sauce or fig jam on top for a touch of fruity sweetness.
- Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg with the maple syrup for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Try fresh thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a different herb aroma.
How to Make Maple Pecan Baked Brie?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (8-ounce) wheel of Brie cheese
- 1/2 cup pecan halves
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
For Serving:
- Crackers or sliced baguette
- Red grapes or fresh fruit (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 12-15 minutes to bake, so you’ll have this tasty appetizer ready in about 20 minutes total. Quick and cozy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help keep things tidy and catch any drips from the gooey cheese.
2. Prepare the Brie:
Place your Brie wheel on the baking sheet. Take a sharp knife and lightly score the rind on top in a crisscross pattern. Make sure to cut halfway through the rind but not all the way through the cheese itself.
3. Toast the Pecans and Make the Topping:
In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the pecan halves and stir them for 3-4 minutes, until they smell toasted and look golden. Then, pour in the maple syrup, stirring so all the pecans get coated. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until the syrup thickens a little. If you like, add the chopped rosemary and mix it in now.
4. Top and Bake:
Take the skillet off the heat and pour the warm maple-pecan mixture evenly over the scored Brie. Then bake your Brie in the oven for about 12-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be soft and melty but not completely melted away.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the Brie from the oven and move it to a serving plate. Surround it with your favorite crackers, slices of baguette, and some fresh grapes or fruit for a pretty touch. Serve warm, letting everyone scoop up that gooey cheese and sweet pecan topping!
Can I Use Frozen Brie for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh Brie and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. Frozen Brie tends to release extra moisture and won’t melt as smoothly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Wrap any leftover baked Brie tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave before serving again.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the maple pecan topping in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, score the Brie, add the topping, then bake fresh for best texture and flavor.
What Are Some Good Alternatives to Pecans?
Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts are great substitutes. Just toast them the same way with the maple syrup for a deliciously crunchy topping.