Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce for Valentine’s Day

Ah, Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce! Just saying the name makes my heart skip a beat, and my stomach growl a little! This gorgeous dish is one that has graced many of my Valentine’s Day celebrations and is simply perfect for sharing (or not, no judgment here!) with that special someone. The creamy, melty brie wrapped in flaky pastry and accompanied by the sweet-tart cranberry sauce creates a delightful contrast that never fails to impress.

I remember the first time I made this – it was for my partner and I, huddled together on our couch, trying to avoid the overly crowded restaurant scene. We popped this beauty into the oven, and the aroma that filled our home was nothing short of magical. Watching the brie ooze out as we dug in together was a moment I still cherish. So, let’s dive into this wonderful recipe; trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

What’s in Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce?

Brie Cheese: The star of the show! Brie is creamy and rich, and when baked, it becomes absolutely heavenly. I usually go for a good-quality wheel – you can find some great options at your local cheese shop or grocery store.

Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry wraps up our delightful cheese and creates a gorgeous golden crust. I love using the frozen kind; it’s super easy and convenient! Just remember to let it thaw before using.

Cranberry Sauce: Sweet and tangy, cranberry sauce brings a refreshing burst of flavor to the richness of the brie. You can use store-bought or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous. I’ve made both, and they both work beautifully!

Walnuts (optional): For a little added crunch. I like to toast them lightly before adding them to the mix to bring out their nutty flavor. But if you’re not a fan, feel free to leave them out!

Fresh Herbs (optional): Thyme or rosemary adds an herby note that enhances the overall flavor. Fresh is best for that aromatic kick!

Is Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce Good for You?

Now, I won’t lie: this dish is not exactly a health food. But hey, it’s Valentine’s Day, and we’re celebrating love – let’s enjoy it!

Brie Cheese: While it’s rich in flavor, it’s also fairly high in calories and fat. The good news is that it contains calcium and protein, so you can feel a tad better about indulging!

Puff Pastry: This brings all the flaky goodness but is also quite buttery and calorie-dense. A little goes a long way, and it’s usually worth the splurge for a special occasion.

Cranberry Sauce: If you choose a homemade version, you can control how much sugar goes into it, making it a sweeter alternative to many other sauces. Cranberries are also packed with antioxidants, which is a nice bonus!

Ingredients List

– 1 round of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
– Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

This recipe serves 4-6 people, perfect for a cozy date night or a gathering with friends!

How to Make Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce?

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). You want it nice and warm for that gooey brie!

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry to fit around the brie. It’ll be about 1/8-inch thick.

3. Place the brie in the center of the rolled-out puff pastry. Spoon the cranberry sauce over the top (don’t be shy – it’s the best part!). If you’re adding walnuts, sprinkle them on top as well.

4. Fold the edges of the pastry over the brie, crimping and sealing it as you go to keep all that cheesy goodness inside. You can trim any excess pastry if needed.

5. Brush the outside of the pastry with the beaten egg to give it that golden color when baked.

6. Place the wrapped brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and pop it in the oven.

7. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. It will be ooey-gooey deliciousness when you cut into it.

9. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy with crackers, slices of apple, or just a spoon— no judgment!

Serving Suggestions for Baked Brie Bliss

If you want to elevate your dish even further, consider pairing your Baked Brie with different types of crackers, bread, or even some fresh fruit. It’s a great way to create a lovely grazing platter for sharing (or hoarding all to yourself). You can also serve it alongside a nice glass of wine; I personally love a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to cut through all that richness.

This recipe is a hit at gatherings, and I can’t wait for you to try it! So gather around your loved ones (or treat yourself – I promise you deserve it!) and whip up this Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce. It’s a surefire way to spread love and joy, one gooey bite at a time. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!