This baked brie with maple cinnamon apples is a cozy, warm appetizer that combines creamy brie cheese with sweet, spiced apples. It’s just perfect for fall gatherings, offering a delicious mix of flavors that’ll have everyone reaching for more.
This recipe remedies issues of blandness and lack of appeal in typical cheesy appetizers, offering a flavorful, warm experience for gatherings.
One thing I found challenging when trying to make a brie dish was ensuring the cheese melted nicely without overcooking the apples. I remember having unexpected guests one chilly evening, and whipping this up turned it into a warm, inviting treat around the table.
What makes this recipe truly stand out is how fast it comes together, just a few minutes of prep and about 30 minutes in the oven gives you that gooey, delicious cheese with just-right apples. You’ll love how all the flavors meld beautifully without needing any complicated steps!
If you want another fun fall recipe to try, consider making my Toasted Coconut Marshmallows, which also bring a cozy vibe to any gathering!
Table of contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor Profile , The combination of gooey brie paired with sweet, caramelized apples and warm spices creates a mouthwatering experience that captures the essence of fall.
- Easy Preparation , In just a few quick steps, you can have this impressive appetizer ready for your next cozy evening. With only 5 minutes of prep before baking, it’s a simple yet elegant choice.
- Texture Contrast , The creamy brie melts beautifully while the crunchy pecans add a satisfying texture, creating a delightful contrast that makes each bite memorable.
- Storage Convenience , This baked brie stays fresh for days, making it an excellent make-ahead option for gatherings. Enjoy the leftovers warmed up or straight from the fridge for a quick snack!
Baked Brie with Maple Cinnamon Apples
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cool Time:
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Warm Maple Pecan Brie is a delicious fall appetizer featuring creamy brie topped with spiced apples and pecans.
Ingredients
- 1 wheel (250-300 g / 9-10.5 oz) Brie cheese, creamy texture with white rind
- 2 tablespoons (28 g / 1 oz) unsalted butter
- 2 medium (about 300 g / 10.5 oz) Honeycrisp apples, sliced
- ¼ cup (30 g / 1 oz) chopped pecans
- 1 ¼ teaspoons (3 g) ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon (1 g) ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons (48 ml) pure maple syrup, divided (1 tbsp and 2 tbsp)
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
- Step 2: Using a sharp knife, score the top of the brie in a crisscross pattern. This allows steam to escape and ensures even melting for a gooey center. Place the brie in the prepared baking dish and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup.
- Step 3: In a medium pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir frequently for 8 to 12 minutes until apples soften but do not over-brown. If apples start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat and cover the pan for 5 minutes to allow softening without burning.
- Step 4: Stir in the vanilla extract and remaining 2 tablespoons of maple syrup into the cooked apples. Keep the mixture warm by covering the pan with a lid while you prepare the brie in the oven.
- Step 5: Bake the scored brie for 18 to 22 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and slightly softened, indicating it is ready. If it is not melting sufficiently, bake for up to an additional 5 minutes while checking frequently to avoid burning.
- Step 6: Spoon the warm apple mixture over the baked brie. For best flavor melding without overcooking the apples, add the topping 2 minutes before finishing the bake or after removing the brie from the oven.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the chopped pecans and fresh thyme leaves over the brie and apples. Serve warm with gluten-free crackers or sliced apples for dipping.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, away from direct heat or sunlight.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let stand briefly at room temperature before serving to soften the cheese.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or serving cold.
- Scoring the brie enables steam release and even melting, essential for its signature gooey texture.
- If apples overcook and start to break down, add a splash of water or cider mid-cook to keep them tender.
- To prevent brie leakage during baking, place it on parchment and tuck edges slightly upward; this helps contain melted cheese and eases cleanup.
- Spoon the apple topping shortly before serving to maintain the texture contrast between the warm apples and melty cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Ingredient Notes
- Brie cheese: Look for a good quality Brie with a creamy texture and white rind. It melts beautifully and provides a rich, gooey center that’s irresistible.
- Maple syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. It adds a natural sweetness, I prefer grade A for a milder taste. Avoid artificial syrup; it won’t give the same depth.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon works best. It enhances the sweetness of the apples and complements the Brie. Look for fresh ground for a more vibrant flavor.
- Apples: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice balance of sweet and tart. They hold their shape well when baked, providing a pleasant texture.
- Walnuts: Get raw or lightly toasted walnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor. They contribute extra texture and grounding flavors; you can substitute with pecans if you’d like.
- Brie cheese: Look for a good quality Brie with a creamy texture and white rind. It melts beautifully and provides a rich, gooey center that’s irresistible.
- Maple syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. It adds a natural sweetness, I prefer grade A for a milder taste. Avoid artificial syrup; it won’t give the same depth.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon works best. It enhances the sweetness of the apples and complements the Brie. Look for fresh ground for a more vibrant flavor.
- Apples: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice balance of sweet and tart. They hold their shape well when baked, providing a pleasant texture.
- Walnuts: Get raw or lightly toasted walnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor. They contribute extra texture and grounding flavors; you can substitute with pecans if you’d like.
Recipe Tips
- If apples brown too quickly, reduce the heat and cover the pan for 5 minutes during cooking to allow them to soften without burning.
- For overcooked apples, add a splash of water or cider to the pan midway through cooking to keep them tender and prevent them from breaking down.
- If brie isn’t melting as expected, bake it for an additional 5 minutes while checking to ensure it’s oozing without burning.
- When topping the brie, spoon the apple mixture on 2 minutes before removal so flavors can meld without overcooking.
- If brie leaks, gently place it on parchment paper and shape the edges to prevent spills during baking; this helps with cleanup too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with gluten-free crackers or apple slices for dipping into the melty brie. Add a side of mixed greens or roasted Brussels sprouts to complement the dish.
Use to make a charcuterie board, featuring nuts and dried fruits. Add to a savory tart with spinach and feta for a delicious variation.
Top with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of fresh thyme for added flavor. Consider serving with a side of honey for a sweet finish.
Recipe variations
- You can use a whole wheel of brie weighing 250 to 300 grams for this baked brie dish, ensuring it’s scored on top for optimal melting during baking.
- Add 1 ¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract when cooking 2 medium Honeycrisp apples for balanced, warm flavors.
- Either drizzle 3 tablespoons maple syrup or 2 tablespoons honey over the brie before baking; both sweeteners complement the apple pecan topping well.
- If baking for 12 guests, double the brie to 600 grams and use two pans, adjusting baking time slightly to maintain even heat and melting.
- This baked brie pairs beautifully with my Maple Pecan Biscuits, which also highlight the fall-inspired maple and nut flavors found here.
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How to Store?
To keep your baked brie fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Room Temperature: Place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Keep away from direct heat or sunlight.
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let sit briefly before serving to soften.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer container. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
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