Baked Brie with Cranberry Orange Relish

Warm, melty brie wrapped in golden pastry or served simply on its own is already a showstopper. But pair it with a sweet-tart cranberry orange relish that sparkles like rubies and you’ve got a festive masterpiece. The contrast of the creamy, mellow cheese with the bright citrus and berries is nothing short of magic. Whether you’re hosting a cozy holiday gathering or just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this baked brie delivers big flavor with very little effort.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born from a holiday memory that never quite left my taste buds. One snowy December evening, a friend brought over a wheel of brie with a jar of homemade cranberry-orange relish. We popped it in the oven and gathered around it like moths to a flame. The way the gooey cheese melted into the sweet and tangy topping was pure comfort and joy. I’ve been recreating and tweaking it ever since, and now I’m sharing the version that’s closest to my heart.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Baked brie has its roots in French cuisine, where brie cheese has been a staple for centuries. Traditionally enjoyed with bread or fruit, brie took a modern twist when the idea of baking it became popular in the United States. Cranberries, native to North America, became a natural partner during holiday seasons, especially around Thanksgiving and Christmas. The addition of orange brings a bright, citrusy note that perfectly balances the tartness of the cranberries, making this dish a flavorful fusion of classic French cheese and seasonal American flavors.

Why You’ll Love Baked Brie with Cranberry Orange Relish

This baked brie isn’t just delicious—it’s a total crowd-pleaser that checks all the boxes.

Versatile: Serve it with crackers, sliced baguette, or even apple slices. It fits in at fancy dinners or casual brunches.

Budget-Friendly: You don’t need fancy ingredients. A wheel of brie and a handful of pantry staples turn into a gourmet treat.

Quick and Easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes with just a few steps. No stress required.

Customizable: You can switch the cranberry relish for fig jam, or add nuts and herbs for extra texture.

Crowd-Pleasing: Watch everyone gather around the cheese plate. This dish always disappears first.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the relish ahead and refrigerate it, then assemble and bake when ready.

Great for Leftovers: Use any leftover brie and relish in a grilled cheese sandwich or spooned over roasted chicken.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To make your baked brie absolutely irresistible, keep these tips in mind:

1. Chill the brie before baking: This helps it hold its shape longer before melting into gooey perfection.
2. Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on it—12 to 15 minutes is all you need for melty goodness without a total cheese puddle.
3. Use a sharp knife to zest the orange: You want thin, flavorful zest without the bitter white pith.
4. Make the relish ahead: Letting it cool enhances the flavors and makes prep easier.
5. Serve immediately: Brie is best enjoyed warm, when it’s soft and scoopable.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You won’t need much, which makes this even more inviting.

Baking Sheet: For baking the brie evenly.

Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

Small Saucepan: For making the cranberry orange relish.

Citrus Zester: To get that bright, flavorful orange zest.

Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping the orange and slicing brie if needed.

Serving Plate or Board: For that final, showstopping presentation.

Ingredients in Baked Brie with Cranberry Orange Relish

This recipe proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special.

1. Brie Cheese: 8-ounce wheel. The rich and creamy base of the dish, it becomes lusciously gooey when baked.
2. Fresh Cranberries: 1 cup. Their tartness balances the richness of the brie and adds bright color.
3. Orange: 1 whole, zested and juiced. Adds a vibrant citrusy note that enhances the cranberry flavor.
4. Granulated Sugar: 1/3 cup. Sweetens the cranberries and balances their natural tartness.
5. Water: 2 tablespoons. Helps simmer the cranberries into a soft, jammy consistency.
6. Fresh Rosemary (optional): 1 sprig. Adds a subtle herbal aroma and makes a gorgeous garnish.
7. Crackers or Baguette Slices: For serving. The perfect vehicles for scooping up all that melty goodness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Here’s how to adapt if you’re missing an item or want to switch things up.

Brie Cheese: Camembert.

Fresh Cranberries: Frozen cranberries (no need to thaw).

Orange: Clementine or mandarin oranges.

Granulated Sugar: Honey or maple syrup.

Water: Orange juice for even more citrus flavor.

Fresh Rosemary: Thyme or omit altogether for a simpler taste.

Ingredient Spotlight

Brie Cheese: A soft-ripened French cheese with a creamy interior and edible rind. When baked, it becomes luxuriously molten.

Cranberries: These little berries pack a tart punch and a vibrant red color, making them perfect for festive dishes.

Instructions for Making Baked Brie with Cranberry Orange Relish

Making this dish feels like crafting a little moment of joy. Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, and water. Cook for 10–12 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Place the wheel of brie on the parchment-lined baking sheet. If using a brie baker, lightly grease it and place the brie inside.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Spoon the cooled cranberry orange relish generously over the top of the brie. Let it slightly drip over the sides.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Bake for 12–15 minutes until the brie is soft to the touch but not collapsing.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig if desired. Carefully transfer to a serving platter.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or even apple wedges. Get ready for the cheese pull of your dreams.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The gooey, buttery softness of baked brie is the perfect canvas for the chunky, jammy cranberry orange relish. The cranberries bring just the right tartness, while the orange adds sparkle and brightness. The crisp crunch of crackers or bread balances the creamy and tangy textures beautifully.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Get even better results with these extra tips:

• Use room temperature brie for faster, even melting.
• Line your pan with parchment to catch any melted cheese overflow.
• For extra depth, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the relish.

What to Avoid

Here’s how to steer clear of common pitfalls:

• Overbaking the brie: It’ll melt completely and lose structure.
• Serving cold: Brie should be served right out of the oven for best texture.
• Using watery relish: Let it reduce properly for a thick, spoonable topping.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 220

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can make the cranberry orange relish up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Assemble just before baking. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven for 5–7 minutes until warm. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture.

How to Serve Baked Brie with Cranberry Orange Relish

This beauty deserves a place at the center of your spread. Serve it with:

• Crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette
• Apple or pear slices for a sweet contrast
• A glass of sparkling water with citrus for a refreshing pairing

Creative Leftover Transformations

Turn those leftovers into something brand new:

• Grilled cheese: Layer leftover brie and relish between sourdough slices.
• Savory tart: Spread over puff pastry and bake for a quick tart.
• Roasted veggie topping: Add a spoonful over roasted sweet potatoes or squash.

Additional Tips

• Let the brie rest a few minutes after baking so it’s warm but not too runny.
• Try baking the brie in a puff pastry wrap for a more indulgent version.
• Make mini versions with small brie rounds for individual servings.

Make It a Showstopper

• Garnish with sugared cranberries or orange zest curls.
• Use a rustic wooden board for presentation with rosemary sprigs.
• Serve with gold-tipped cheese knives for a holiday touch.

Variations to Try

• Fig and Walnut Brie: Use fig jam and chopped walnuts for a rich, earthy twist.
• Apple Cranberry Relish: Mix chopped apple into the relish for more texture.
• Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: Add a drizzle before serving for tangy depth.
• Puff Pastry Wrapped Brie: Wrap the brie before baking for flaky goodness.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the relish for contrast.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
A1: Yes, but homemade relish gives more flavor and freshness.

Q2: Do I need to remove the rind from the brie?
A2: Nope! It’s totally edible and softens beautifully when baked.

Q3: Can I make this gluten-free?
A3: Absolutely. Just serve with gluten-free crackers or bread.

Q4: How long does baked brie stay gooey?
A4: It stays gooey for about 15–20 minutes after baking. Serve right away.

Q5: What other fruits work besides cranberries?
A5: Try figs, raspberries, or even pomegranate seeds.

Q6: Can I reheat baked brie?
A6: Yes, reheat gently in the oven for the best texture.

Q7: Can I freeze this dish?
A7: It’s not recommended. Brie can become watery when frozen and reheated.

Q8: Is this dish vegetarian?
A8: Yes, as long as your brie doesn’t contain animal rennet.

Q9: Can I make this ahead?
A9: Yes. Prep the relish ahead, then assemble and bake when ready.

Q10: What if I don’t like orange?
A10: Swap it with lemon or skip the zest for a simpler cranberry topping.

Conclusion

Whether you’re setting the table for a holiday meal or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this Baked Brie with Cranberry Orange Relish brings comfort, elegance, and flavor all in one. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is secretly so easy, and trust me, you’re going to love every bite. From its gooey, cheesy center to its tangy-sweet crown, this dish is always a favorite.

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