Cranberry Brie Jalapeño Combo

Cranberry Brie Jalapeño Poppers are the ultimate holiday appetizer that will steal the show at any gathering. The combination of creamy brie, sweet cranberry sauce, and a touch of heat tucked inside roasted jalapeños is guaranteed to surprise and delight your taste buds. Whether you are planning a cozy night in or an epic holiday party these poppers come together quickly and bake up beautifully every single time.

Every time I serve these my friends are amazed by the unexpected flavor pairing. I originally made these for a Friendsgiving and now they are my signature holiday snack.

Ingredients

• Jalapeños: Large ones hollowed out and halved make the best vessels Look for firm glossy peppers with no soft spots
• Brie cheese: Rind removed for extra meltiness The rich creamy texture balances the spicy jalapeños Choose a wedge that feels soft to the touch
• Whole cranberry sauce: Provides tangy sweetness that lifts the dish I prefer homemade but canned works in a pinch
• Chopped pecans: Toasted for extra crunch and nutty flavor Pick pecans that smell fresh If you skip the pecans the poppers are still delicious
• Balsamic glaze: Adds a glossy finish and balances out the heat and sweetness Opt for a thick syrupy glaze for best results

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Set your oven to 375 F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup This prevents sticking and helps the poppers roast evenly

Prepare the Jalapeños:

Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and carefully remove seeds and membranes for less heat Use gloves if possible to avoid irritation Arrange the halves cut side up on the baking sheet so they do not tip over

Fill with Brie:

Cut the brie into pieces about two inches long and a quarter inch thick so they nestle perfectly in the pepper halves Press a piece of brie inside each jalapeño ensuring it sits flat to catch the toppings

Top with Cranberry and Pecans:

Stir the cranberry sauce to loosen if needed and add a generous teaspoon onto the brie in each jalapeño Sprinkle chopped pecans over the tops gently pressing them down so they stick

Bake to Perfection:

Place the tray in the oven and bake for 13 to 17 minutes The brie should bubble and ooze as the jalapeños soften slightly Watch closely so the cheese does not spill out completely

Add the Finishing Touch:

Once out of the oven drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve warm for the best flavor and texture

Brie is truly the star here Its creaminess mellows the jalapeño heat in the most satisfying way I remember the first time my niece begged for seconds even though she is usually wary of anything spicy

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge They will keep well for up to three days To reheat place them on a baking sheet in a hot oven for five to seven minutes They will lose a little crunch but the flavor stays fantastic

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have brie cream cheese will also work though it will be a bit tangier Swap pecans with walnuts or leave them out entirely For a different twist use fig jam in place of cranberry sauce

Serving Suggestions

Serve these poppers on a wooden platter garnished with extra dill or parsley for color They pair well with sparkling cider or holiday cocktails and make a great addition to brunch spreads

Cultural and Holiday Context

This recipe takes inspiration from classic jalapeño poppers but gives them a modern holiday twist with brie and cranberry That combination echoes festive flavors often found in winter feasts making these poppers a memorable part of Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings

Seasonal Adaptations

You can use different jams like cherry or apricot if cranberry is out of season Try roasting the pecans in cinnamon sugar for an even more festive twist Swap in Hatch chiles in late summer for a regional spin

Success Stories

The first time I made these for a potluck they vanished in ten minutes Guests always comment on how pretty they look with the glossy glaze and ruby red cranberry dots I now make double batches just in case

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can assemble the poppers ahead and freeze them before baking Arrange filled jalapeños on a tray and freeze solid then transfer to a zip top bag To bake place frozen poppers on a baking sheet and add five extra minutes to the cook time

With their festive colors and irresistible flavor, these poppers are sure to be a new holiday favorite. Make extra— they disappear quickly!

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?

Yes, goat cheese or cream cheese also pairs well with jalapeños and cranberry sauce for a slightly different flavor and texture.

→ Do I need to toast the pecans?

Toasting pecans is optional, but it adds extra crunch and a deeper nutty flavor to each bite.

→ Is canned or homemade cranberry sauce better?

Both work well; use homemade for a fresher taste or canned for convenience. Stir canned sauce to achieve a smooth consistency.

→ How spicy are the poppers?

Jalapeños deliver mild to medium heat, but removing seeds and membranes reduces spiciness. Select peppers based on your heat preference.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

Assemble the poppers in advance and bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Drizzle with glaze right before serving.