Baked Brie with Roasted Cranberries: Warm Appetizer

This warm, melty Brie is baked (or microwaved) until gooey and perfect for dipping. Topped with savory roasted cranberries and fresh rosemary, it’s an easy, affordable appetizer that works for holidays, parties, or any night you’re craving cheese and bread.

Short on time or looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser? A baked Brie is perfect: it’s fast, elegant, and remarkably forgiving. Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this version—topped with tangy roasted cranberries and aromatic rosemary—balances sweet, tart, and savory flavors for an irresistible bite.

• Simple to prepare
• Only five main ingredients
• Can be finished in the oven or microwave
• Vegetarian and naturally gluten-free
• Sweet, tart, and savory in every bite
• Easy to share—or keep all to yourself

What is Baked Brie?

Baked Brie is simply a wheel of Brie cheese warmed until the center softens and becomes spoonable. The cheese is left in its rind during heating, which keeps most of the wheel intact until you cut into it. Once you pierce the rind, the warm, creamy interior oozes out, making it ideal for spreading on crackers, bread, or crostini. The rind is edible, so you can leave it on or remove it—whichever you prefer.

How to Make

If you’re in a hurry, you can substitute canned cranberry sauce for the roasted cranberries. The roasted version, however, adds a savory depth that pairs beautifully with Brie.

1. Roast the cranberries

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.

Toss 1.5 cups fresh cranberries with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 minced sprig of rosemary, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared sheet.

Roast for 12–15 minutes, until the cranberries begin to burst but still hold some shape.

2. Warm the Brie

To bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap a small wheel of Brie (about 8 oz) and place it in a small, shallow ovenproof dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is warm and softened around the edges. Let it rest 2–3 minutes, then transfer carefully to a serving plate.

To microwave: Heat the Brie on a microwave-safe plate for 30–45 seconds, just until the sides begin to soften. Microwaves vary, so watch closely to avoid overheating.

Topping Ideas

Warm Brie pairs well with many toppings. Popular choices combine something sweet, some texture, and a savory note. Try any of the following:

• Fig jam, apricot jam, or any fruit preserves
• Jelly or marmalade
• Dried fruit like raisins or chopped apricots
• Toasted nuts or seeds (toss in a little oil first to prevent burning)
• Caramelized onions
• Brown sugar and maple syrup
• Sautéed or fried apples

More Holiday Appetizers

• Honey goat cheese crostini
• Buffalo chicken dip
• Slow cooker cranberry meatballs
• Baked artichoke hearts with a breadcrumb topping
• Seasonal cheese and fruit boards

If you try this baked Brie with roasted cranberries, please leave a comment to share how it turned out.