Maple Pecan Baked Brie
Maple Pecan Baked Brie is a wonderfully simple yet impressive appetizer that combines the creamy richness of melted brie with the sweet and nutty flavors of maple syrup and crunchy…
Tip: save now, cook later.Maple Pecan Baked Brie is a wonderfully simple yet impressive appetizer that combines the creamy richness of melted brie with the sweet and nutty flavors of maple syrup and crunchy pecans. When baked, the brie becomes soft and gooey, making it perfect for spreading on crackers or slices of warm bread. The touch of maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the toasted pecans on top.
I love making this for gatherings because it’s always a crowd-pleaser and feels a bit fancy without much effort. A little tip: let the brie warm just enough so it’s soft but not fully melted, making it easier to serve and enjoy every bite. I find that the smell alone when it comes out of the oven is enough to get everyone excited to dig in.
One of my favorite ways to serve Maple Pecan Baked Brie is alongside fresh apple slices or simple crackers. It’s perfect for holiday parties or casual get-togethers, where it instantly becomes the star on the appetizer table. Every time I make it, people ask for the recipe—and I happily share because it’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: The star of this dish! Choose a creamy, whole wheel of brie for best results. If you can’t find brie, camembert works well as a substitute with a similar texture and flavor.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add sweetness and crunch. You can swap with walnuts or almonds if needed, but pecans have the perfect buttery taste for this recipe.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives natural sweetness and a subtle depth. If unavailable, honey or agave work, but maple adds that classic touch.
Brown Sugar & Butter: These help caramelize the nuts and boost flavor. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or vegan butter.
Ground Cinnamon: Just a pinch adds warmth. You can skip it if you prefer a simpler nutty flavor.
How Do You Get the Maple Pecan Topping Just Right?
Getting a perfectly sticky and toasted maple pecan topping is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Melt butter on medium heat and add pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Stir constantly for 3–4 minutes until pecans toast and sugar melts into syrup.
- Remove from heat, then quickly mix in maple syrup—this stops burning and keeps the syrup smooth.
- Pour the warm mixture over the brie before baking to let syrup soak in slightly.
This method helps you avoid burnt nuts and makes sure each pecan is glossy and crunchy, adding great texture to your melted brie.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Small skillet – perfect for toasting pecans and melting butter without burning.
- Baking sheet or small oven-safe dish – holds the brie while it bakes evenly.
- Spatula or spoon – helps stir the maple-pecan mixture and spread it on the brie.
- Knife – for slicing the baked brie and serving with crackers or bread.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pecans for walnuts for a slightly earthier crunch.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pecan topping for a subtle spicy kick.
- Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the baked brie for tangy contrast.
- Top with chopped dried cranberries or apricots for fruity sweetness and color.
How to Make Maple Pecan Baked Brie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cheese and Topping:
- 1 round (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
For Serving:
- Crackers or sliced baguette
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 12–15 minutes to bake, so in total, you’ll need about 25 minutes. It’s quick to make but offers a cozy, delightful appetizer perfect for sharing right away.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Maple-Pecan Topping:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the pecans, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir continuously for 3–4 minutes until you see the pecans toasted and the brown sugar melts into a caramel-like syrup.
2. Add Maple Syrup and Coat Pecans:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the maple syrup until the pecans are well coated with the sweet glaze.
3. Assemble and Bake The Brie:
Place the brie in the center of a baking sheet or an oven-safe dish. Pour the warm pecan mixture over the top, spreading evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes until the brie is soft and begins to ooze but hasn’t completely melted.
4. Serve Warm and Garnish:
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if you like. Serve the warm, gooey maple pecan brie alongside crackers or sliced baguette for a tasty, shareable appetizer everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Brie for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight. Using fully thawed brie helps it bake evenly and melt perfectly without getting watery.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Wrap any leftover baked brie tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5–7 minutes until soft again.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the maple pecan topping in advance and refrigerate it separately. When ready to serve, place the brie on a baking sheet, spoon the topping over it, and bake as directed.
What Are Good Serving Suggestions?
This baked brie pairs wonderfully with apple slices, pears, or your favorite crackers. For extra flair, try serving it alongside a fresh green salad or charcuterie board.
