This Baked Brie with Candied Jalapeños & Pecans is a sweet, spicy, and nutty appetizer that’s perfect for holiday parties, cozy gatherings, or charcuterie boards. The creamy, gooey brie pairs beautifully with sweet syrup-coated jalapeños and toasted pecans, creating a flavor-packed bite that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 8 oz wheel of brie (whole)
- 1/4 cup Cowboy Candy (candied jalapeños), chopped
- 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey for extra sweetness
- Crackers, sliced baguette, or crostini for serving
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any melted cheese.
Tip: Use a small oven-safe dish for extra stability if the brie is soft.
Step 2: Prepare the Brie
- Remove any plastic wrapping from the brie wheel.
- Optional: Trim off the top rind for easier melting and topping adherence.
Tip: Keep the rind if you want the classic look—it helps contain the cheese while baking.
Step 3: Assemble the Toppings
- Sprinkle chopped candied jalapeños evenly over the brie.
- Add roughly chopped pecans on top.
- Optional: Drizzle honey over the toppings for extra sweetness.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, lightly toast pecans in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes before adding.
Step 4: Bake the Brie
- Place brie on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the brie is soft and gooey but not fully melted out.
- Optional: Rotate halfway through baking for even melting.
Tip: Keep an eye on the brie—it can go from perfectly melty to overdone quickly.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer baked brie to a serving platter.
- Serve immediately with crackers, sliced baguette, or crostini.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for presentation.
Pro Tip: Use a small offset spatula to scoop portions, ensuring cheese stays gooey and the toppings intact.
Step 6: Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Baked brie is best served fresh from the oven.
- You can assemble toppings in advance and keep the brie in the fridge, then bake right before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but reheating may alter texture.
Why It Works
- Creamy Brie: The rich, buttery flavor is the perfect base.
- Sweet & Spicy: Candied jalapeños bring heat balanced with syrupy sweetness.
- Crunchy Pecans: Add texture and nutty flavor for contrast.
- Quick & Elegant: Minimal effort, maximum wow factor.
Variations
- Add dried cranberries for a festive touch.
- Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds depending on preference.
- Wrap in puff pastry for a decadent baked brie en croute version.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne to the jalapeños for extra kick.
