If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines creamy, melty cheese with the sweet-tart pop of cranberries and the satisfying crunch of nuts, then this Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce and Pistachios Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s stunningly simple, looks beautiful on the table, and brings together flavors that dance on your tongue. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this dish is a guaranteed way to impress your guests while keeping things effortless in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round wheel of creamy white cheese with faint ridges on its surface sits in the center of a white rectangular baking tray lined with white parchment paper. On top of the cheese, a woman's hand is holding a silver spoon full of glossy, dark red cooked cherries, placing them carefully in the middle of the cheese. Below the tray, there is a small white bowl filled with the same dark red cherries. The tray is placed on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients is all it takes to create this delicious Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce and Pistachios Recipe. Each plays an essential role in balancing flavors and textures, giving you a dish that’s as elegant as it is delicious.

8 ounce round Brie cheese: The centerpiece; creamy and mild, it melts beautifully to create that luscious base.
½ cup cranberry sauce: Adds a vibrant burst of sweet and tart flavor, perfectly complementing the cheese’s richness.
2 tablespoons roughly chopped pistachios: Offers a delightful crunch and nutty aroma to contrast the soft cheese.
Optional garnish – fresh herb sprigs and orange zest: Fresh herbs add color and aromatic depth, while orange zest brings a refreshing citrus hint.

How to Make Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce and Pistachios Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Brie

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your 8-ounce round Brie cheese on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a Brie baker if you have one. This prep ensures the Brie won’t stick and bakes evenly while making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Top and Bake

Generously spoon the cranberry sauce over the top of the Brie, letting those jewel-red berries spread and nestle into the cheese’s creamy surface. Place it in the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the Brie softens and becomes irresistibly melty — just the sign it’s ready to enjoy.

Step 3: Add Pistachios and Garnish

Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the warm cranberry-topped Brie. Add optional fresh herb sprigs and a few curls of orange zest to elevate the look and bring a subtle fragrance that hints at the flavors inside.

How to Serve Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce and Pistachios Recipe

A round white cheese wheel with a soft, creamy interior oozing out from a small cut is placed in the center of a shallow white bowl. The cheese is topped with a thick layer of dark red cooked cherries, which are glossy and juicy, with some orange zest strips and chopped pistachios sprinkled on top. Bright green sprigs of rosemary and a few whole red cranberries sit beside the cheese, adding contrast. On the side of the cheese, two light brown crackers lean against it. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a small glass jar of honey and stacked white plates in the blurred background, all giving a fresh and inviting feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme sprigs, along with a handful of orange zest ribbons, not only beautify this dish but also add layers of fresh scent and taste that complement the richness of the Brie and the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.

Side Dishes

Serve the baked Brie with an array of crackers or sliced baguette—something sturdy enough to scoop up the melty cheese and cranberry topping. For those watching gluten, a garlic rosemary gluten-free cracker pairs excellently and adds another flavor dimension.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce and Pistachios Recipe on a wooden cheese board surrounded by clusters of red grapes and apple slices. It turns your simple dish into a festive, sharable centerpiece that invites your guests to dig in and savor every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the baked Brie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within two days for maximum freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Because Brie’s creamy texture changes after freezing, this dish is not ideal to freeze once baked. It’s better to prepare it fresh when possible for that perfect melt and mouthfeel.

Reheating

To reheat, place the Brie in a 300°F oven just until it softens again, usually about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the cheese rubbery or overly runny.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Brie?

While Brie is the star of this recipe due to its creamy texture and mild flavor, Camembert is a similar substitute that also melts beautifully and complements the cranberry topping well.

Is homemade cranberry sauce better than store-bought for this recipe?

Both work wonderfully! Store-bought cranberry sauce offers convenience and sweetness, while homemade versions allow you to adjust sweetness and spice levels to your liking, adding a personal touch.

Can I prepare the cranberry topping ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cranberry sauce a day or two in advance to save time. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake the Brie.

What else can I sprinkle on top besides pistachios?

If you don’t have pistachios on hand, toasted pecans or walnuts also provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the cranberry and cheese.

How do I prevent the Brie from leaking while baking?

Placing the Brie on parchment paper or using a Brie baker helps contain any melting cheese. Also, avoid overbaking to prevent excessive leakage and maintain that perfect melty texture.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce and Pistachios Recipe, it will quickly become a cherished go-to for your gatherings and cozy nights in. It’s an effortless way to elevate simple ingredients into a stunning dish that brings warmth, flavor, and festive cheer every time. Give it a whirl and get ready for the compliments to pour in!