This classic party appetizer combines warm, melted brie cheese with a sweet and crunchy topping. The walnuts are cooked in a simple maple-butter glaze right on the stovetop while the cheese bakes.
The dish comes together in about 20 minutes with minimal effort. It’s a straightforward recipe that looks impressive and offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors for any gathering.
Why You’ll Love Maple Walnut Baked Brie
- Baking the brie softens the inside. Heating the cheese in the oven turns the firm interior into a warm, spoonable dip without melting the rind completely.
- The rind contains the cheese. Leaving the side and bottom rind intact creates a natural bowl to hold the melted cheese as it bakes.
- Simmering the sauce thickens it. Cooking the maple syrup and butter reduces the liquid slightly, creating a thicker glaze that coats the walnuts.
Maple Walnut Baked Brie Ingredients
- Brie: Camembert can be used instead. Both have edible rinds and a similar melting quality.
- Walnuts: Pecans are a great substitute if you prefer them. Use halves or large pieces for the best texture.
- Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup, for the authentic flavor this recipe needs.
- Butter: Salted or unsalted butter works. If using salted, you might want to reduce the added salt slightly.
- Red Pepper Flakes: This is optional but adds a nice touch of warmth to balance the sweetness of the syrup.
Exact quantities are in the recipe card below.
How to Make Maple Walnut Baked Brie
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Brie
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment. Place the brie wheel on the sheet and carefully slice off just the top layer of rind. Bake it for about 15 minutes until the center is soft.
Step 2: Make the Maple Walnut Topping
While the brie is in the oven, make the topping. Combine the walnuts, maple syrup, butter, and salt in a small saucepan. Bring it all to a simmer over medium heat.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Let the topping simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then. The sauce is ready when it has thickened enough to coat the walnuts. Be careful not to let the syrup burn.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Once the brie is baked, move it to a serving platter. Pour the warm maple walnut topping directly over the melted cheese. It’s best served immediately while everything is warm and gooey.
Storage Tips for Maple Walnut Baked Brie
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended. Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven or in the microwave in short bursts until just warmed through.
Expert Tips for Maple Walnut Baked Brie
- Scoring the top of the brie in a crisscross pattern before baking is an alternative to removing the top rind. This also allows for easy dipping.
- Watch the walnut topping closely as it simmers to prevent the maple syrup from burning.
- The brie is ready when the center feels very soft to the touch.
- For a richer flavor, you can toast the walnuts in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding them to the saucepan.
What to Serve with Maple Walnut Baked Brie?
Serve with sturdy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or apple and pear slices for dipping.
Maple Walnut Baked Brie Recipe FAQs
Do I have to cut the rind off?
You don’t have to. You can also score the top in a grid pattern. Removing the top rind just makes it easier to pour the topping on and dip into. The entire rind is edible.
Can I use a different kind of nut?
Yes, pecan halves work very well as a substitute for walnuts. Toasted almonds would also be a good choice.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh from the oven. You can make the walnut topping a day ahead and store it in the fridge; just warm it up before pouring over the freshly baked brie.
Maple Walnut Baked Brie
Ingredients
- 1 wheel of brie cheese (225g) 8 ounce
- 1 cup shelled walnut halves 100g
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup 60ml
- 1 tbsp butter 14g
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the wheel of brie on the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the top rind, leaving the side and bottom rinds intact.
- Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, until the cheese is softened and appears slightly puffed.
- While the brie bakes, prepare the topping. In a small saucepan, combine the walnuts, maple syrup, butter, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Continue to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly and coats the walnuts. Stir in the red pepper flakes, if using.
- Carefully transfer the baked brie to a serving board or platter.
- Pour the warm maple walnut topping over the brie. Serve right away.
