Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries is a delightful appetizer that combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the vibrant flavors of sweet and tart cranberries. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a sophisticated snack. It’s easy to prepare and will impress your guests with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste!
Ingredients List
For the Brie:
- 1 round of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish (optional)
For Serving:
- Sliced baguette or crackers
- Sliced apples or pears (optional)
Timing
Preparing Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Cranberry Topping
- Cook Cranberries: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon (if using), and salt.
- Simmer: Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Bake the Brie
- Prepare Brie: Place the brie cheese on a baking dish or a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can leave the rind on, as it adds flavor and texture.
- Top with Cranberries: Spoon the cranberry mixture over the top of the brie, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the brie is soft and gooey but not completely melted.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Plate: Serve warm with sliced baguette, crackers, and optional sliced apples or pears.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries (per serving, assuming 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Tips for Customization
- Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cranberry mixture for a spicy kick.
- Use Different Fruits: Substitute cranberries with cherries, blueberries, or a mix of dried fruits for alternative flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries pairs well with:
- A variety of crackers and bread.
- Charcuterie boards with cured meats and cheeses.
- Seasonal fruit like figs or grapes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the brie to prevent it from melting too much. It should be soft but not completely runny.
- Too Much Sugar: Adjust the sugar in the cranberry mixture based on your taste preference and the tartness of the cranberries.
- Skipping the Garnish: Fresh herbs add a nice touch to the presentation, so don’t skip this step!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
In about 30 minutes, you can create Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries, a sophisticated and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy brie and tangy cranberries is sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday gatherings!
FAQs
Can I make the cranberry topping ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cranberry mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before serving.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Camembert or goat cheese can be excellent alternatives if you prefer different flavors.
What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?
You can use dried cranberries or cranberry sauce as a substitute, adjusting the sugar accordingly.
Can I serve this dish cold?
While it’s best served warm, you can enjoy it at room temperature if preferred.
Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Brie:
- • 1 round of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
- • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- • 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- • 1 teaspoon orange zest
- • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- • 1/4 teaspoon salt
- • Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish (optional)
- For Serving:
- • Sliced baguette or crackers
- • Sliced apples or pears (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the cranberry topping: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10–15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Bake the brie: Place the brie cheese on a baking dish or a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon the cranberry mixture over the top of the brie, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10–15 minutes, or until the brie is soft and gooey but not completely melted.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm with sliced baguette, crackers, and optional sliced apples or pears.
