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Lightened-Up Cranberry Pistachio Baked Brie: Easy Holiday Appetizer

lightened-up cranberry pistachio baked brie - featured image

A lightened-up baked brie topped with tart cranberries, crunchy pistachios, and a touch of honey, perfect for holiday gatherings. This easy appetizer comes together in under 30 minutes and is a crowd-pleaser that won’t weigh you down.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 wheel (8 oz) brie cheese
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon orange zest, freshly grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped dried apricots

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the brie sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Score the top of the brie in a shallow crosshatch pattern, about 1/4 inch deep, without cutting through the sides.
  3. In a small bowl, combine dried cranberries, chopped pistachios, orange zest, and fresh rosemary. If using dried apricots, add them here.
  4. Place the scored brie in a small baking dish or on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Drizzle honey evenly over the top, letting it seep into the scored lines. Spoon the cranberry-pistachio mixture over the top, pressing gently.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the brie is soft and slightly puffed at the edges but still holding its shape.
  6. Let the brie rest for 2 minutes, then carefully transfer to a serving board.
  7. Garnish with extra fresh cranberries and a rosemary sprig if desired. Serve immediately with crackers, sliced baguette, apple slices, or pretzel chips.

Notes

For best results, let the brie come to room temperature before baking. Score only the top rind to prevent leaking. Toast pistachios in a dry skillet for 2 minutes for extra flavor. The brie can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated; add 2-3 minutes to baking time if starting from cold.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked brie, cranberry pistachio brie, lightened-up brie, holiday appetizer, easy appetizer, vegetarian appetizer