Remove the partially toasted crostini from the oven and:
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Place the brie wheel in the center of the dish.
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Score the top lightly with a knife (optional, helps the cheese melt evenly).
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Return the dish to the oven for another 10–12 minutes or until the brie becomes soft and melty.
Step 4: Add Cranberry Sauce and Final Bake
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Spoon the warm cranberry sauce over the melted brie.
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Return to the oven for 3–4 more minutes for everything to fuse together beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Sprinkle rosemary on top, place your dish on the table while still hot, and enjoy the magic of dipping crostini directly into the molten cheese pool.
🔥 Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Brie Every Time
✔ Don’t overbake the brie.
You want it melted and gooey, not leaking everywhere. 10–12 minutes is ideal.
✔ Keep the rind on!
It holds the cheese together and is perfectly edible.
✔ Make the cranberry sauce ahead.
This cuts down prep time during busy holidays.
✔ Use fresh herbs for the most aromatic results.
Rosemary, thyme, and sage are all excellent choices.
✔ Serve immediately.
Baked brie is best enjoyed warm while the cheese is soft.
🍽 What to Serve with Baked Brie
This baked brie pairs wonderfully with:
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Crackers
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Apple slices
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Pear slices
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Grapes
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Toasted walnuts or pecans
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Prosciutto or salami
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Extra crusty bread
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A glass of red wine or sparkling cider
🥖 Variations to Try
1. Brie en Croûte
Wrap the brie in puff pastry before baking for a golden, flaky crust.
2. Honey Almond Baked Brie
Swap the cranberry sauce for honey and toasted sliced almonds.
3. Fig Jam Brie
Use fig preserves for a rich, earthy flavor.
4. Maple Pecan Brie
Top with maple syrup, brown sugar, and chopped pecans.
5. Spicy Cranberry Brie
Mix a teaspoon of chili crisp or jalapeño jelly into the cranberry topping.
❄️ Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration:
Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
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Rewarm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes.
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Avoid microwaving—this can make the cheese rubbery.
Freezing:
Not recommended. Brie changes texture when frozen.
❓ FAQs
1. Can I use goat cheese or camembert instead of brie?
Yes! Camembert works beautifully and melts similarly. Goat cheese won’t melt the same way but still tastes amazing with cranberry topping.
2. Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
Absolutely—whole berry cranberry sauce works best if you’re short on time.
3. What if I only have sliced bread?
Cut slices into cubes or triangles—they toast just as well.
4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free brie alternative and vegan butter for the crostini.
5. Can this dish be transported for parties?
Bake it at home and reheat briefly at your destination for best results.
⭐ Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Easy Holiday Appetizer
This Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce and Garlic Herb Crostini is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and festive joy. Its warm, creamy center, sweet-tart topping, and savory toasted bread come together to create one of the most satisfying appetizers you can serve during the holidays or any special event.
It’s elegant enough for formal gatherings, simple enough for last-minute hosting, and loved by everyone who tries it. With easy prep, quick baking time, and endless variations, this dish belongs in every home cook’s seasonal recipe collection.
So grab your brie wheel, warm up your oven, and treat your guests (or yourself!) to this irresistible masterpiece.
Enjoy every delicious, melty bite!
