Looking for a delicious and easy appetizer to impress your guests this holiday season? Look no further than Santa’s Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce! This gooey, cheesy dish is perfect for any occasion and will leave everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of creamy brie cheese and tangy cranberry sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- This dish is quick and easy to make, with minimal prep time required.
- Santa’s Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce is a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
Ingredient Notes:
- (-ounce) cold brie cheese round: The star of the show, brie cheese adds a creamy and rich flavor to the dish. You can also use camembert as a substitute.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce: The cranberry sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the brie cheese.
- Brown sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, nutmeg: These ingredients add depth and warmth to the dish.
- Nuts (pistachios, almonds, walnuts, pecans) and fresh rosemary: These toppings add a crunchy texture and a pop of color to the dish.
- Assorted crackers or crostini: Perfect for serving with the baked brie.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Place the brie cheese round on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and nutmeg.
- Spoon the cranberry mixture over the brie cheese and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve with crackers or crostini.
Helpful Tips:
- Make sure to use a cold brie cheese round for easier handling.
- Experiment with different nuts and herbs for added flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Allow the brie cheese to come to room temperature before baking for a smoother melt.
- Use a high-quality cranberry sauce for the best flavor.
- Serve the baked brie immediately for the best gooey texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Santa’s Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine or sparkling cider. Serve alongside fresh fruit, olives, and cured meats for a complete appetizer spread.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftovers, wrap the baked brie in aluminum foil and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
- While brie is recommended for its creamy texture, you can also use camembert or another soft cheese.
- How far in advance can I prepare this dish?
- You can assemble the baked brie up to a day in advance and bake it right before serving.
- Can I make this recipe without nuts?
- Yes, feel free to omit the nuts or substitute with seeds for a nut-free version.
Conclusion:
Santa’s Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Give this recipe a try and watch as your guests rave about its delicious flavors. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy every cheesy bite!
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Santa’s Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15-20 mins
- Total Time: 25-30 mins
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the festive flavors of the holidays with Santa’s Baked Brie topped with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. This appetizer is perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in by the fireplace.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
-
- 1 (8-ounce) cold brie cheese round
- 1/3 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 2 tablespoons packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped nuts
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, divided (optional)
For Serving:
- Assorted store-bought or homemade crackers or crostini
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the brie: Cut off the top rind of the brie wheel and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make the cranberry sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and nutmeg. Cook over low heat until the sugar is dissolved.
- Top the brie: Pour the cranberry sauce mixture over the brie and sprinkle with chopped nuts. Add a sprig of rosemary for garnish.
- Bake: Bake the brie for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is gooey and melted.
- Serve: Serve the baked brie hot with crackers or crostini.
Notes
- You can customize the nuts used in this recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the cranberry sauce by adding more or less brown sugar to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg