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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Gingerbread Crusted Baked Brie with Pinot Noir Cranberry Sauce
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A wheel of brie baked inside a gingerbread cookie crust and topped with a quick Pinot Noir cranberry sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 round (8 oz / 225 g) brie, soft and creamy
- 1 cup (100 g) gingerbread cookies, finely crushed
- 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
- Pinot Noir Cranberry Sauce
- 1 cup (100 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) Pinot Noir
- 3 tbsp (38 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh orange juice
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet with parchment paper.
- Combine the crushed gingerbread cookies and melted butter in a bowl and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press half of the gingerbread mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish. Set the brie round on top, then press the remaining crumb mixture firmly around the sides and over the top of the brie.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is set and the brie is visibly soft and beginning to bulge at the sides.
- While the brie bakes, combine the cranberries, Pinot Noir, sugar, and orange juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until the berries burst and the sauce thickens to a loose jam consistency.
- Remove the brie from the oven and spoon the warm cranberry sauce over the top. Serve immediately with crackers or sliced baguette.
Notes
- Store-bought gingerbread cookies work perfectly here — crush them in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin for even crumbs.
- A soft, creamy brie melts the best; avoid a very firm or aged variety, which won’t soften as readily in the oven.
- The cranberry sauce can be made up to two days ahead and warmed gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought gingerbread cookies for the crust?
Yes, using store-bought gingerbread cookies can save time; just crush them finely to create the crust.
What type of brie cheese works best for this recipe?
A soft, creamy brie works best, as it melts beautifully and complements the gingerbread crust and cranberry sauce.
How do I make the cranberry sauce from scratch?
To make cranberry sauce from scratch, simmer fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar and a splash of orange juice until the berries burst and the mixture thickens.
what is the recipe for the yellow medley of veggies in the photo with the Sonoma-Cutrer 2015 pinot noir
http://images.honestcooking.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/IMG_0429.jpg
Mmm, looks amazing!
x Mariya
http://www.brunetteondemand.com