Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry

Creating this Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry has become my favorite way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of creamy melted Brie, tart-sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans wrapped in golden puff pastry creates an elegant appetizer that looks restaurant-quality but comes together in just 50 minutes.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic holiday season when I needed something impressive but simple. The first bite delivers that perfect contrast of textures – the flaky, buttery pastry gives way to warm, gooey Brie that mingles beautifully with the cranberry sauce and toasted pecans. What makes this cranberry pecan brie recipe truly special is how it transforms just a few humble ingredients into something that feels genuinely gourmet, making every gathering feel more festive and memorable.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Baked Brie

I always recommend using high-quality puff pastry and fresh Brie for the best results, as these ingredients truly make the difference in both flavor and presentation.

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed completely
• 1 round Brie cheese (8-12 oz) – I prefer triple cream varieties
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade works wonderfully)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted for extra flavor
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1 egg for egg wash
• 1 tablespoon water
• Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
• Extra cranberry sauce for serving
• Additional chopped pecans for presentation

Step-by-Step Instructions for Success

I recommend chilling the wrapped Brie briefly before baking, as this helps create cleaner edges and prevents cheese leakage during cooking.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a square or circle large enough to completely wrap your Brie wheel with about 2 inches of overhang.

Step 3: Optionally remove the top rind of the Brie using a sharp knife for an extra creamy texture, though this step isn’t necessary for delicious results.

Step 4: Place the Brie in the center of your pastry. Spread cranberry sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle with chopped pecans and drizzle with honey if using.

Step 5: Carefully fold the pastry edges up and over the Brie, pressing gently to seal. Trim excess pastry and save scraps for decorative touches on top.

Step 6: Whisk together egg and water in a small bowl, then brush this egg wash over the entire pastry surface for that beautiful golden finish.

Step 7: Chill the wrapped Brie for 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator to help maintain its shape during baking.

Step 8: Bake for 30-40 minutes until the pastry is deeply golden brown and puffed. Watch carefully during the final 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Step 9: Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving, as this helps the cheese settle and makes slicing much easier.

Perfect Pairings That Complement This Dish

The rich, creamy flavors of this baked brie pair beautifully with both sweet and savory accompaniments.

Artisan Crackers: Water crackers or rosemary flatbread provide the perfect neutral base that won’t compete with the complex flavors of the cranberry pecan brie.

Fresh Sliced Baguette: Toasted baguette slices offer a satisfying crunch and help balance the richness of the melted cheese.

Seasonal Fresh Fruit: Crisp apple slices, juicy pears, or sweet grapes add natural sweetness and refreshing contrast to cut through the richness.

Mixed Nuts: Serve alongside roasted walnuts or almonds to complement the pecans and add textural variety to your cheese board.

White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or buttery Chardonnay enhances the creamy Brie while the acidity balances the sweet cranberry elements perfectly.

Create the Ultimate Entertaining Menu

This elegant Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry sets the perfect tone for sophisticated gatherings when paired with our other crowd-pleasing recipes. Complement this rich, creamy appetizer with lighter finger foods like our delicate Herb and Cheese Stuffed Puff Pastry Bites or protein-packed Viral Cottage Cheese Flatbread for variety in textures and flavors.

For a complete entertaining experience, follow this appetizer with satisfying mains like our comforting Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese, creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, or casual BBQ Chicken Flatbread. End the evening sweetly with indulgent desserts like our rich Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles and cozy Hot Chocolate Cookies.

Smart Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover cranberry pecan brie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container, though it’s honestly best enjoyed fresh from the oven.

For reheating, I recommend using a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes rather than the microwave, which helps restore some of the pastry’s original crispness. You can also prepare the entire dish ahead of time and freeze it unbaked for up to 2 months.

Pro tip: If making ahead, assemble completely but don’t apply the egg wash until just before baking for the best golden color and texture.

Common Questions About This Recipe

Your New Favorite Holiday Appetizer

This Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry proves that elegant entertaining doesn’t require complicated techniques or endless prep time. The combination of seasonal flavors wrapped in buttery pastry creates those memorable moments that make every gathering feel special.

With just a few quality ingredients and less than an hour of your time, you’ll have a show-stopping appetizer that tastes like it came from an upscale restaurant. Try this recipe for your next gathering and watch as your guests ask for the recipe!

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