Cranberry Brie Jalapeño Poppers

These cranberry brie jalapeño poppers deliver a mix of creamy savory spicy and sweet that always draw big cheers at gatherings. The warm brie softens against the roasted jalapeños while cranberry sauce adds holiday flair and a splash of brightness. Pecans and balsamic work like little finishing touches and the whole tray disappears every time.

I first set these out at a neighborhood holiday party and even folks who do not love spicy food asked for the recipe. My family now calls these the red and green bites and honestly the sweet tart cranberry with creamy cheese makes them as good at summer cookouts as in December

Ingredients

• Large jalapeños: look for firm glossy peppers without cracks or soft spots as they will hold their shape best
• Brie cheese: soft and creamy removes quickly from the rind when cold so keep chilled until ready to use
• Whole cranberry sauce: homemade or canned both work with canned giving slightly more texture and tang
• Chopped pecans: toasted pecans add crunch and warmth choose fresh pecans without a bitter smell
• Balsamic glaze: pick a syrupy bottled kind for drizzling or reduce your own for a deeper flavor

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers:

Wash jalapeños well then slice each lengthwise and scoop out seeds and ribs so the poppers are easier to eat. Lay them cut side up on a lined baking sheet and nestle them together which helps keep the cheese inside as it melts.

Cut the Cheese:

With a sharp knife cut brie into slim pieces to fit the cavity of each pepper about two inches long and a quarter inch thick. Chilled brie is much easier to slice with clean edges.

Add Cheese to Jalapeños:

Tuck a piece of brie into each jalapeño boat pushing gently so it sits level and will not slide out in the oven. Some pieces of brie will melt over the sides which is part of their charm.

Top with Cranberry and Pecans:

Loosen up canned cranberry sauce with a spoon before adding a teaspoon to each jalapeño half. Sprinkle toasted chopped pecans over the cranberry for texture and extra flavor.

Bake to Perfection:

Roast in a hot oven until the brie bubbles and the peppers have started to soften but are still bright green. This usually takes just over ten minutes and a few minutes longer if you like your peppers more tender.

Finish with Balsamic Glaze:

Once out of the oven drizzle with balsamic glaze in a thin stream so every bite has a touch of sweet tangy finish. Serve immediately while everything is gooey and warm.

My personal favorite part is the first bite when the brie oozes out and the cranberry sweetness hits your tongue. My kids once called this snack Christmas in a pepper and now it is a December must make.

Storage Tips

Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for two days and reheat best at 325 degrees until warmed through. For the crispiest pecans, toss a few fresh ones on top before serving leftovers.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a nut free version skip the pecans or swap for toasted pepitas. Feel free to replace brie with goat cheese for a tangier kick or use raspberry preserves if cranberry is out of season.

Serving Suggestions

These poppers shine on cheese boards and appetizer platters next to charcuterie. For a full party spread add fresh herbs or a sprinkle of flaky salt before baking. I often serve them alongside a bowl of sour cream or Greek yogurt for dipping.

Cultural and Seasonal Context

Jalapeño poppers began as classic Tex Mex bar food but this version turns them into a festive bite with brie and cranberry. The red and green colors make them perfect for the holiday season while still feeling fresh enough for any gathering.

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap canned cranberry for fresh in November and December Try fig jam in late summer for a different fruit finish Use thinly sliced pears in fall for a touch of mellow sweetness

Success Stories

I brought these to a Friendsgiving potluck and had several people ask me for the recipe before dessert was served. It is one of those appetizers that gets people talking and vanishes before most guests have a chance for seconds.

Freezer Meal Conversion

While these poppers are best fresh you can assemble them up to the baking step and freeze on a tray until solid then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen adding three to five minutes to the time and drizzle with glaze at the end.

These are guaranteed to be a crowd favorite at any gathering. Every batch is a celebration of spicy, sweet, creamy, and crunchy in a single bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use another cheese instead of brie?

Yes, creamy cheeses like goat cheese or camembert work well in place of brie and will also melt smoothly inside the peppers.

→ How do I handle jalapeños to reduce their spice?

Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before filling to mellow their heat while keeping the pepper flavor.

→ Are canned or homemade cranberries better?

Both work nicely. Homemade cranberry sauce provides a fresher taste, but canned is convenient and just as tasty when loosened before spooning.

→ Can these be prepared ahead of time?

Fill and assemble the jalapeños up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake them shortly before serving for best texture.

→ What can I serve alongside these poppers?

They pair well with crisp salads, charcuterie, or sparkling beverages for a tasty party platter.