Maple Pecan Baked Brie
Maple Pecan Baked Brie is such a simple yet special treat. It’s a warm, gooey wheel of brie cheese topped with sweet maple syrup and crunchy toasted pecans. The combination…
Tip: save now, cook later.Maple Pecan Baked Brie is such a simple yet special treat. It’s a warm, gooey wheel of brie cheese topped with sweet maple syrup and crunchy toasted pecans. The combination of creamy cheese, sticky maple, and nutty pecans creates a wonderful mix of textures and flavors that always feels a little fancy.
I love making this when guests come over because it’s so easy to prepare but makes a great impression. I usually bake the brie until it’s melted inside, then drizzle the maple and sprinkle the pecans right on top. The warm, sweet, and nutty smell fills the kitchen, and everyone always can’t wait to get a taste.
Serving it with slices of crusty bread or crisp crackers is my favorite way to enjoy it. It’s great for sharing and perfect for cozy parties or holiday gatherings. I always keep a little extra maple syrup nearby because sometimes I like to add a little more drizzle just before eating. This baked brie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and a bit special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Maple Pecan Baked Brie
Brie Cheese: Make sure to use a whole wheel of Brie for that creamy center when baked. If you prefer a milder taste, a Camembert wheel works great, too. Avoid pre-sliced for this recipe.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and warmth. You can swap these for walnuts or almonds if you like. To keep it nut-free, try pumpkin seeds for a different texture.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with Brie. Honey is a nice substitute if you don’t have maple syrup on hand.
Butter: A bit of butter helps toast the nuts and bring richness. Use unsalted butter to control salt better, but you could use olive oil if needed.
Cinnamon (optional): Adds a cozy, warm spice. If you don’t have cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg or allspice can provide similar depth.
How Do You Get the Brie Perfectly Gooey Without It Melting Into a Mess?
The key is gentle baking and timing. Here’s how to nail it:
- Place the Brie on parchment to avoid sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) so the cheese softens inside without bubbling out too fast.
- Check after 10 minutes. The outer rind will stay mostly intact, but the inside should be soft and creamy.
- Remove promptly and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the cheese firm up slightly so it doesn’t run everywhere when cut.
If you bake it too long, the Brie melts away completely and becomes hard to serve neatly. Keep an eye on it – you want soft, oozy cheese, not liquid cheese lava!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for holding the Brie and catching any drips during baking.
- Parchment paper – stops the cheese from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Small skillet – great for toasting pecans and warming the maple syrup before adding to the Brie.
- Spatula or spoon – to stir the pecans in the maple syrup and spread the topping smoothly.
- Sharp knife – lets you cut the Brie cleanly for serving without tearing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pecans for toasted walnuts or almonds for a different crunch and nutty flavor.
- Stir in dried cranberries or chopped apricots with the nuts for a fruity touch.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary for a herby note that balances the sweetness.
- Try drizzling honey instead of maple syrup for a lighter, floral sweetness.
Maple Pecan Baked Brie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (8-ounce) wheel of Brie cheese
- 1/2 cup pecan halves or chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to bake, plus a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. So, you’ll have a warm, delicious appetizer ready in under 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready and Toast the Pecans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things easy to clean. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the pecans and stir often as you toast them gently for 3-5 minutes until they smell nutty and turn a bit golden.
2. Make the Maple Pecan Topping:
Pour the maple syrup into the skillet with the pecans. If you like, add the cinnamon too. Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 more minutes until the syrup gets a little bit thicker and coats the pecans nicely.
3. Bake the Brie:
Place the wheel of Brie on the prepared baking sheet. Pour the warm maple pecan mixture generously over the top, letting some drip down the sides. Bake the Brie for 10-15 minutes, just until it feels soft and gooey inside—but still holds its shape so it’s easy to serve.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the Brie out of the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a lovely aroma and look. Serve it warm with crackers or slices of baguette. Spread the creamy cheese and top with the sweet, crunchy pecans. Yum!
Can I Use Frozen Brie for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the Brie in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This helps it heat evenly and melt smoothly without becoming watery.
Can I Make Maple Pecan Baked Brie Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pecan topping in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add it on top of the Brie just before baking for the best texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked Brie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave before serving to regain that gooey texture.
What Can I Serve with Maple Pecan Baked Brie?
Crackers, sliced baguette, apple slices, or fresh fruit all pair beautifully with this dish. Choose crunchy or slightly sweet accompaniments to complement the creamy and nutty flavors.