Maple, Apple, and Pecans Baked Brie Recipe

Name: Maple, Apple, and Pecans Baked Brie
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 (8-ounce) wheel Brie cheese (about 5-inch diameter); 1 medium apple, thinly sliced (1 1/3 cups); 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 2 tablespoons chopped toasted pecans; Snipped fresh rosemary (optional); Crackers, toasted baguette slices, and/or apple slices, for serving

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 6 servings. Ingredient quantities can be adjusted proportionally, but cooking times remain the same. Original recipe measurements are listed below.

1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 ounces, approximately 5-inch diameter)
1 medium apple, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons chopped toasted pecans
Fresh rosemary, snipped (optional)
Crackers, toasted baguette slices, or apple slices for serving

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400F (200C).
Carefully slice off the top rind of the Brie wheel and discard it. Place the Brie in a small pie dish.
Bake the Brie in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until it is soft and warmed through.
Remove from the oven and arrange the apple slices on top of the melted cheese.
Drizzle with maple syrup, sprinkle with toasted pecans, and add rosemary if desired.
Serve immediately with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or additional apple slices for dipping.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 174
Total Fat: 12g (15% DV)
Saturated Fat: 7g (34% DV)
Cholesterol: 38mg (13% DV)
Sodium: 239mg (10% DV)
Total Carbohydrates: 9g (3% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% DV)
Total Sugars: 7g
Protein: 8g (16% DV)
Vitamin C: 1mg (2% DV)
Calcium: 80mg (6% DV)
Iron: 0mg (2% DV)
Potassium: 113mg (2% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual needs may vary.

** Nutrient information may be incomplete. Consult a healthcare professional if following a medically restrictive diet.

The Story Behind Maple, Apple, and Pecans Baked Brie

Baked Brie has long been a celebrated appetizer in Western cuisine, with roots tracing back to the French region of Brie, known for its soft, creamy cheeses. The combination of Brie with sweet and nutty toppings like maple syrup, apples, and pecans is a modern twist that emerged in North America, where maple syrup and pecans are staples in traditional fall and winter recipes. This adaptation brings together the French tradition of indulgent cheese with the natural flavors of American harvest ingredients, creating a dish that is both elegant and approachable.

Regional Characteristics

This particular version of baked Brie is strongly influenced by North American culinary culture. In the northeastern United States, maple syrup is a signature ingredient, while southern states are known for their pecan harvests. The inclusion of fresh apples adds a crisp, slightly tart contrast, reflecting the seasonal availability of apples across many U.S. regions. This fusion of ingredients highlights the regional diversity of flavors in American cooking, offering a balance between sweet, nutty, and creamy textures.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While many baked Brie recipes exist, this one stands out due to its combination of maple syrup, apples, and toasted pecans. Traditional baked Brie often uses honey, jam, or nuts alone, but the addition of fresh apple slices provides a refreshing fruit element, while maple syrup adds a distinctly rich, caramel-like sweetness. The toasted pecans contribute a crunchy texture, creating a layered tasting experience that sets it apart from simpler cheese appetizers.

Where It Is Typically Served

Maple, Apple, and Pecans Baked Brie is commonly served as an appetizer or hors d'oeuvre at holiday gatherings, dinner parties, and festive celebrations. It pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh fruit, making it a centerpiece for communal dining. Its visually appealing presentation and combination of flavors make it ideal for special occasions where both taste and aesthetics matter.

Interesting Facts

Brie cheese is named after the Brie region of France, which has been producing this soft cheese for over a thousand years.
Maple syrup, one of the star ingredients, is primarily produced in Canada and the northeastern United States, making it a symbol of North American culinary tradition.
Pecans were first cultivated by Native Americans and remain one of the few nut trees native to North America, highlighting the dishs regional authenticity.
Serving baked Brie warm enhances its creamy texture, which can be further elevated by removing the top rind, allowing toppings to meld with the cheese.
This dish is versatile: it can be adapted for sweet or savory preferences by switching fruits, nuts, or syrups without losing its signature richness.

FAQ about Maple, Apple, and Pecans Baked Brie Recipe

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare some components ahead of time. You can slice the apple and chop the pecans a few hours before serving. However, the Brie should be baked just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

Leftover baked Brie should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven at a low temperature (about 300°F or 150°C) for 5-10 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Yes, you can substitute Brie with other soft cheeses like Camembert, goat cheese, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly depending on the cheese used.

For a non-dairy version, you can use a plant-based Brie alternative or any vegan soft cheese that melts well. Additionally, make sure the maple syrup and pecans are free of animal-derived products.

Absolutely! You can experiment with other toppings such as dried fruits (cranberries, raisins), nuts (walnuts, almonds), or even a drizzle of honey. Fresh thyme or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance the flavor.

This dish pairs well with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or additional apple slices. You can also serve it with other fruits like grapes or pears for a more varied platter.

Yes, you can omit the pecans or substitute them with another type of nut such as walnuts or almonds. If you have nut allergies, you can simply leave them out altogether and still enjoy the dish.

To adjust for a larger group, simply scale up the ingredients. For example, if you need to serve 12 people, use two wheels of Brie and double the toppings. Make sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra Brie.

It is not recommended to freeze this dish because the texture of the Brie may change after thawing, and the toppings may lose their crunch. It's best enjoyed fresh.

If the Brie doesn't melt after 15 minutes, you can bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes. Ensure the oven temperature is set correctly, as oven variations can affect cooking time. You can also check that the Brie is at room temperature before baking for better results.