This appetizer offers a beautiful balance of textures and flavors—sweet, tart, creamy, and crunchy—all in one bite. It’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and pairs beautifully with both savory and sweet accompaniments. Ideal for holiday parties or cozy evenings in, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels gourmet with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Wheel of brie cheese
Dried cranberries
Shelled pistachios, chopped
Honey or maple syrup
Puff pastry (optional, for baked version)
Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional garnish)
Crackers, crostini, or sliced apples/pears for serving
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the wheel of brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a small baking dish.
In a bowl, mix the chopped pistachios and dried cranberries.
Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the brie.
Drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the brie is soft and gooey inside.
(Optional) For a wrapped version, place the brie on a sheet of puff pastry, top with cranberry-pistachio mixture, wrap, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from oven and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired.
Serve warm with crackers, crostini, or fruit.
Servings and timing
Serves 6–8 as an appetizer. Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10–15 minutes (or 20–25 minutes if using puff pastry) Total time: 15–30 minutes
Variations
Use fig jam or apricot preserves under the toppings for added sweetness.
Add a splash of balsamic glaze after baking for a tangy finish.
Swap pistachios with walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
Use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry for a crispier crust.
Serve unbaked by simply assembling the toppings on the brie and serving at room temperature.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the brie in a baking dish and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–12 minutes until soft. Avoid microwaving, as it may affect the texture. Do not freeze, as the cheese texture may become grainy.
FAQs
Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
You can prep it ahead by assembling the toppings, but bake just before serving for best results.
Should I remove the rind from the brie?
No, the rind is edible and helps hold the melted cheese together during baking.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but cook them slightly with sugar first to balance their tartness.
Do I need to use puff pastry?
No, it’s optional. The appetizer works beautifully with or without pastry.
What can I serve with this appetizer?
Crackers, crostini, baguette slices, or fresh apple and pear slices are all great options.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free brie alternatives available at specialty stores for a vegan-friendly version.
Can I microwave brie instead of baking it?
While possible, baking is preferred for better texture and presentation.
What type of honey works best?
Mild, floral honeys like clover or wildflower work best, but maple syrup is a great alternative.
How do I keep the toppings from falling off?
Press the cranberry and pistachio mixture gently into the brie before baking to help them stick.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger wheel of brie and adjust baking time slightly.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Pistachio Brie Appetizer is an effortless yet sophisticated dish that brings warmth and elegance to your holiday table. With its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and beautiful presentation, it’s a seasonal favorite that guests will rave about. Whether you serve it baked or unbaked, this appetizer is the perfect way to start any festive celebration.
The Cranberry Pistachio Brie Appetizer is a warm, melty, and festive holiday dish featuring creamy brie cheese topped with tart dried cranberries, crunchy pistachios, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. It’s an elegant yet easy-to-make appetizer perfect for entertaining.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:6–8 servings
Category:Appetizer
Method:Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 wheel of brie cheese (8 oz)
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 sheet puff pastry (optional, for baked version)
Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional garnish)
Crackers, crostini, or sliced apples/pears for serving
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the wheel of brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a small baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix chopped pistachios and dried cranberries.
Sprinkle the cranberry-pistachio mixture evenly over the top of the brie.
Drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the brie is warm and soft inside.
Optional wrapped version: Place the brie on a sheet of puff pastry, add toppings, wrap, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from oven and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme, if desired.
Serve warm with crackers, crostini, or fruit slices.
Notes
Use fig jam or apricot preserves under the toppings for extra sweetness.Add a splash of balsamic glaze after baking for a tangy finish.Try walnuts, almonds, or pecans instead of pistachios.Serve unbaked by assembling toppings and serving at room temperature.Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in the oven.
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 serving (approx. 1 oz brie with toppings)
