Imagine a dish that combines the creamy decadence of melted brie, the tangy burst of balsamic-roasted cranberries, and the smoky crunch of almonds—all in one irresistible bite. This Baked Brie with Balsamic Roasted Cranberries and Smoked Almonds isn't just an appetizer; it's a conversation starter, a showstopper, and the secret weapon to elevating any gathering from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated dinner party or looking for a luxurious snack, this recipe promises to transform your culinary experience with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 wheel of brie cheese
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup smoked almonds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 baguette, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your baked brie comes out perfectly warm and gooey.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh cranberries, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture gently until the sugar dissolves and the cranberries begin to pop, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- While the cranberries are cooking, prepare the brie. Place the wheel of brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the brie, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Once the cranberries have cooled, spoon the balsamic roasted cranberries over the brie, allowing some of the mixture to spill over the sides. This will create a deliciously tangy topping.
- Sprinkle the smoked almonds on top of the cranberries and brie. The almonds will add a wonderful crunch and smokiness to the dish.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the brie is soft and gooey. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
- While the brie is baking, slice the baguette into thin pieces. You can toast the slices in the oven for a few minutes if you prefer them crispy.
- Once the brie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes to cool slightly. This will make it easier to serve.
- Serve the baked brie warm, accompanied by the toasted baguette slices. Encourage your guests to scoop out the warm brie and cranberries with the baguette for a delightful appetizer.
Tips
- Choose a high-quality brie wheel at room temperature for even melting
- Use a sharp knife to score the top of the brie lightly, which helps it melt more evenly
- Watch the baking time closely—15-20 minutes is the sweet spot for gooey perfection
- Let the brie rest for 2-3 minutes after baking to achieve the ideal serving consistency
- For extra presentation points, garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
- If cranberries are out of season, you can substitute with other fruits like fig or cherry
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature
- Pair with a crisp white wine or champagne for a truly elegant experience
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
