Baked Brie with Puff Pastry, Cranberry-Pepper Jelly, and Pecans

Is there anything better than a warm, gooey appetizer fresh from the oven? This Baked Brie with Puff Pastry, Cranberry-Pepper Jelly, and Pecans is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become the star of your holiday table. With its buttery golden puff pastry, creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry-pepper jelly, and crunchy pecans, this recipe is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for any gathering, this easy and elegant dish comes together in just a few steps. Let’s dive right in and learn how to make this irresistible appetizer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to adore about this Baked Brie with Puff Pastry. For starters, it’s an absolute showstopper, both in taste and presentation. The creamy, mild flavor of the melted brie is elevated by the sweet and tangy cranberry-pepper jelly, while the chopped pecans add a lovely crunch to every bite. When wrapped in flaky puff pastry and baked to golden perfection, it’s impossible to resist! Plus, it requires minimal prep time—making it a go-to for last-minute entertaining.

Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Taste and Texture

What makes this baked brie so incredible is the delightful combination of contrasting flavors and textures. The brie melts into a creamy, luscious filling, balanced by the sweet, spicy zing of the cranberry-pepper jelly. The pecans bring a hint of nuttiness and crunch, while the puff pastry provides a buttery, flaky shell that ties it all together. One bite offers a harmonious medley of flavors and textures that will wow your taste buds!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this indulgent baked brie:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
• 1 wheel of brie (about 8 oz)
• ¼ cup cranberry-pepper jelly (or regular cranberry jelly with a pinch of red pepper flakes)
• ¼ cup pecans, chopped
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Fresh thyme (for garnish, optional)
• Crackers or baguette slices (for serving)

Ingredient Benefits and Variations

• Puff pastry: Adds a rich, flaky outer layer that’s easy to work with and bakes up beautifully golden.
• Brie: The mild, creamy cheese creates a rich, gooey center.
• Cranberry-pepper jelly: This jelly brings a bright, tangy sweetness with a hint of spice, which pairs perfectly with the rich brie.
• Pecans: These nuts add a delightful crunch and subtle nutty flavor to balance the creaminess of the brie.
• Egg wash: Gives the pastry a gorgeous golden-brown finish when baked.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

• Cranberry-pepper jelly: If you don’t have cranberry-pepper jelly on hand, you can use regular cranberry jelly and mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. You could also experiment with fig jam, apricot preserves, or even raspberry jelly for a different flavor profile.
• Pecans: Almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts can be used in place of pecans for a different type of crunch.
• Herbs: Fresh rosemary or sage could be used instead of thyme for garnish, depending on your preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Brie and Puff Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour your surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry until it’s slightly larger than the brie wheel. Place the brie in the center of the pastry.

2. Assemble the Brie

Spread the cranberry-pepper jelly evenly on top of the brie. Then, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the jelly. Fold the puff pastry over the brie, making sure to seal the edges so that none of the delicious filling escapes. If desired, you can decorate the top with any leftover pastry dough cut into shapes.

3. Apply the Egg Wash

Brush the beaten egg wash over the entire surface of the puff pastry to give it a shiny, golden-brown crust when baked.

4. Bake the Brie

Place the wrapped brie onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown and crispy. The brie should be warmed through, and the jelly should be bubbling slightly at the edges.

5. Let it Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the baked brie rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired, and serve warm with crackers or sliced baguette for dipping.

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What to Serve with Baked Brie

While this baked brie is perfect on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the dish even further. Serve it alongside:

• Crackers: Choose a neutral-flavored cracker, like water crackers, to let the flavors of the brie shine.
• Sliced baguette: Slightly toasted slices of baguette provide a sturdy base for spreading the gooey cheese.
• Fresh fruits: Sliced apples, pears, or grapes are great complements to the rich, creamy brie.
• Nuts: Serve with extra pecans or almonds for additional crunch.

Tips for Making the Perfect Baked Brie

• Seal the puff pastry well: To prevent any filling from leaking out, make sure the puff pastry is sealed tightly around the brie.
• Chill the brie: For easier handling, refrigerate the brie before wrapping it in puff pastry. This makes it less likely to melt before the pastry crisps up.
• Use a high-quality brie: The better the cheese, the better the flavor! Opt for a good quality brie for a richer, creamier result.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), you can store the baked brie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the pastry is crispy again—about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make baked brie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the brie wrapped in puff pastry up to one day ahead. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge, brush with egg wash, and bake as directed.

Can I freeze baked brie?

While baked brie is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap the assembled brie tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to one month. When ready to bake, let it thaw slightly before brushing with egg wash and baking.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While brie is the classic choice for this recipe, you could experiment with Camembert or another soft-ripened cheese with a similar creamy texture.

Conclusion

There you have it—Baked Brie with Puff Pastry, Cranberry-Pepper Jelly, and Pecans! This easy, elegant appetizer is perfect for any holiday party or special occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or indulging in a cozy night at home, this warm, gooey brie will always hit the spot.

Feel free to share your version on Pinterest or leave a review to let me know how you liked it. If you’re a fan of this recipe, you might also want to check out my other holiday favorites like Peppermint Brownie Cookies, Roast Turkey and Cranberry Stuffed Sweet Potatoes, or Pumpkin Streusel Bread.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 18g

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