Maple Pecan Baked Brie is a deliciously gooey and nutty treat that’s perfect for any gathering. It features a warm wheel of creamy brie cheese topped with crunchy pecans and sweet maple syrup that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The combination of melted cheese with the toasty pecans and sticky maple brings together fantastic flavors and textures.
I love making this whenever friends come over because it feels fancy but is actually so simple to prepare. One of my favorite tricks is to use fresh pecans and real maple syrup, as it really makes a difference in taste. You can assemble it quickly, pop it in the oven, and before you know it, your kitchen smells amazing and everyone is eager to dig in.
Serving it with slices of crusty bread or some crisp apple slices turns this into an irresistible appetizer. I always enjoy watching how people’s faces light up when that warm, melty cheese starts to stretch. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, sharing bites and stories. This Maple Pecan Baked Brie has become my go-to when I want something simple yet impressive.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: The star of this dish is a soft wheel of Brie. I suggest using a creamy one with a white rind. If you prefer, Camembert can work too, as it melts similarly and has a mild flavor.
Pecans: Pecans add a nice crunch and a buttery taste. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or toasted almonds make great alternatives and bring their own unique texture.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives a natural sweetness and a nice sticky texture. If maple isn’t available, honey or agave syrup can be used, just note the flavor will change a bit.
Dried Cranberries: These are optional but I love how their tartness contrasts with the sweet pecans and creamy cheese. You can swap them with dried cherries or raisins.
How Do You Bake Brie Perfectly Without It Losing Shape?
Baking Brie just right means you want it soft and melty inside without it turning into a puddle. Here’s how I do it:
- Place the Brie on a parchment-lined sheet to avoid sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes. Watch closely—once the edges look puffed and soft, it’s ready.
- Avoid overbaking; if baked too long, Brie can collapse and lose its creamy texture.
- After baking, transfer carefully with a spatula to a serving board to keep it looking nice.
This way, you get warm, gooey cheese to dip into, perfectly paired with the toasted maple pecans on top.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for holding the Brie while it bakes and catching any drips.
- Parchment paper – keeps the cheese from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Small bowl – great for mixing the pecans with maple syrup evenly.
- Spatula or spoon – to spread the sticky pecan mixture on top of the Brie.
- Serving board or platter – to present your baked Brie beautifully and catch any syrup drips.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty crunch that still pairs well with the cheese.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the maple syrup mix for a warm, cozy spice touch.
- Mix chopped dried apricots or cherries with the pecans for extra sweetness and color.
- Try drizzling a little balsamic glaze over the baked Brie before serving to add a tangy balance.
How to Make Maple Pecan Baked Brie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 wheel (8 oz) Brie cheese
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional, for garnish)
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and then 12-15 minutes to bake. So, in roughly 20 minutes, you’ll have a warm, gooey baked Brie with crunchy and sweet maple pecans ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the Brie wheel on the parchment-lined sheet or in a small oven-safe dish.
2. Coat Pecans with Maple Syrup:
In a small bowl, combine the pecan halves and maple syrup. Toss them well so each pecan is coated evenly with the maple syrup.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Spoon the maple-coated pecans evenly over the top of the Brie. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, until the Brie is soft and beginning to melt but still maintains its shape.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and carefully transfer the Brie to a serving board or platter. Garnish around the Brie with dried cranberries and extra pecans for color and texture. Drizzle any remaining maple syrup from the bowl over the top. Add a few sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if you wish for a pretty presentation. Serve immediately with crackers or sliced baguette to scoop up the warm, creamy cheese and sweet pecan topping.
If you love this Maple Pecan Baked Brie, you’ll also enjoy our festive Pumpkin Spice Cake for a cozy dessert, or treat yourself to the timeless flavors of a Classic Apple Pie.
Can I Use Frozen Pecans for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pecans! Just thaw them completely at room temperature or in the fridge before mixing with the maple syrup. Pat them dry if they feel damp to ensure they crisp up nicely when baked.
How Should I Store Leftover Baked Brie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5-7 minutes or until softened. Avoid microwaving as it can become rubbery.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Brie with the maple pecans ahead of time and refrigerate it covered for a few hours. Bake it just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What Can I Serve with Maple Pecan Baked Brie?
Serve with a variety of crackers, sliced baguette, or crisp apple slices. Fresh fruits like grapes or pears also make a great pairing to balance the richness of the cheese.