Gingerbread Crusted Baked Brie and Cranberry Sauce

Nothing screams holiday entertaining as loud as this delicious gingerbread-crusted baked brie served with a cranberry sauce.

When I was just beginning to gain an interest in food and wine, I used to sit and dream about the day when I’d be able to host lavish get-togethers in my beautiful, spacious home. I used to think that the best parties required tons of time-consuming, elaborate elements and that entertaining was reserved for fancy occasions that would demand limitless budgets.

Fast forward a decade to my husband and I living in a modest town home where I run a small business while simultaneously parenting a young child, and I’m happy to say that I was so very wrong. Entertaining doesn’t have to be expensive, excessive and super fancy to be fun! Let’s put it this way — had I waited for the ideal time, budget and space to entertain, I’d still be waiting!

Realistically, most of us who enjoy entertaining do not live on the set of Martha Stewart Magazine and have unlimited resources at our fingertips. But that doesn’t mean we should hold back from hosting family and friends for gatherings, especially during the holidays!

If you’re anything like me, then you may be inclined to want to make EVERYTHING from scratch. I have some advice for you: Don’t.

Taking on too much is a surefire way to stress yourself out and have zero fun. If you do want to cook or bake for the occasion, choose one or two simple recipes to focus on, then head to the store for assistance! Many stores offer party-ready platters, party-perfect desserts and appetizers that only need defrosting or warming. Your guests would rather have more time with a smiling, happy you than only catch a few glimpses of a frazzled, disgruntled you as you buzz in and out of the kitchen. Promise.

Speaking of easy, festive recipes… I’ve got the perfect addition to your spread: Gingerbread Crusted Baked Brie!

Does it get more “holiday” than melty brie cheese with a gingerbread crust? I didn’t think so, either! But then I topped it all off with a super quick {and extremely delicious} Pinot Noir Cranberry topping that takes it to the next level. It’s so good you may hide it from your guests and have your own little wine and cheese party in the kitchen, just you and your wedge of brie.

Whether you decide to share or not, don’t fear hosting friends and family this year! You’ve got everything you need to make holiday gatherings ones you’ll remember. Cheers to stress-free entertaining!

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