Creamy Pumpkin Baked Brie with Maple Pecans and Rosemary

Autumn’s embrace calls for warmth, comfort, and delightful gatherings. Elevate your fall entertaining with this exquisite Pumpkin Baked Brie, a truly captivating appetizer that promises to impress. Imagine a wheel of creamy, melted brie, lovingly baked inside a charming mini pumpkin, then adorned with sweet maple pecans and fragrant fresh rosemary. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience – a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will undoubtedly become a highlight of your seasonal spread. Prepare to fall head over heels for this elegant yet incredibly simple creation.

A perfectly baked brie nestled in a hollowed-out mini pumpkin, garnished with glistening maple pecans and vibrant rosemary sprigs, ready to be served.

An Irresistible Autumnal Delight: Pumpkin Baked Brie

There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of mellow, molten brie, the rich sweetness of maple, the satisfying crunch of pecans, and the aromatic freshness of rosemary. When these elements are all baked together, not just in any dish, but directly into a festive mini pumpkin, you get an appetizer that is both stunning and soul-satisfying. This Pumpkin Baked Brie is designed to be the star of your autumn table. Serve it alongside your favorite crisp crackers, slices of a crusty baguette, or perfectly toasted crostini, and watch as guests gather around this warm, melty dip, finding it utterly impossible to resist. If you’re already a fan of my Pecan Pie Baked Brie or the classic Baked Brie with Fig Jam, you’ll know exactly the kind of cozy, crowd-pleasing warmth this recipe brings.

This dish transcends the ordinary, offering a sophisticated yet accessible option for any host looking to add a touch of seasonal charm to their menu. The subtle earthy notes from the pumpkin flesh, infused with maple syrup, create a beautiful backdrop for the decadent brie, elevating the entire experience. It’s a treat for both the eyes and the palate, making it an ideal choice for fall brunches, evening gatherings, or simply a cozy night in.

A hand dipping a cracker into the warm, gooey baked brie, served within a mini pumpkin, surrounded by an assortment of crackers and crostini on a rustic wooden board.

Effortless Elegance for Entertaining

When loved ones gather for the festive Thanksgiving holiday, a cozy fall party, or any special occasion, this eye-catching appetizer is guaranteed to be a big hit. Its visual appeal is as captivating as its taste, presenting a stunning centerpiece that speaks of autumn abundance. The best part? Despite its sophisticated appearance, it is incredibly easy to prepare. The most “labor-intensive” step involves carefully scraping out the mini pumpkin, which truly takes mere minutes, but the effort is more than worth it for the breathtaking presentation it affords.

The brie bakes directly into the pumpkin flesh, allowing the subtle, sweet essence of the pumpkin to infuse the cheese. A light coating of maple syrup on the inside of the pumpkin further enhances this sweetness, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the rich, creamy brie. The combination is simply divine, and I just know you, and all your guests, are going to absolutely adore it! It’s an appetizer that looks like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality, it comes together with surprising speed and minimal fuss.

Another close-up shot of a cracker being dipped into the warm, melty baked brie, nestled in its pumpkin vessel, surrounded by various dipping options.

Gather Your Ingredients and Essential Supplies

Crafting this delightful Pumpkin Baked Brie requires just a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients and a couple of basic kitchen tools. For precise measurements and detailed instructions, refer to the full recipe card located at the bottom of this post.

Key Ingredients:

  • Mini Pumpkin: Select one that’s slightly larger than your brie wheel (a 4-inch brie wheel is standard). Look for ornamental or sugar pie pumpkins, ensuring it’s fresh and sturdy. View on Kroger
  • Soft Ripened Brie Cheese: A single wheel, typically 8 ounces, is perfect. Choose a good quality brie for the best creamy texture and rich flavor. Shop Brie Cheese
  • Chopped Pecans: These add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of maple and the richness of brie. Find Chopped Pecans
  • Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is essential here. Its deep, caramel-like sweetness is far superior to imitation syrups and creates that perfect autumnal warmth. Purchase Maple Syrup
  • Fresh Rosemary: Finely chopped, fresh rosemary provides a fragrant, herbaceous counterpoint that brightens the entire dish. Avoid dried rosemary for this recipe. Get Fresh Rosemary
  • Flaky Sea Salt: A delicate sprinkle of flaky sea salt at the end enhances all the flavors and provides a subtle textural contrast. Buy Flaky Sea Salt

Essential Supplies:

  • Baking Sheet: To hold your pumpkin and brie securely in the oven. Shop Baking Sheets
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking. Buy Parchment Paper
  • Sharp Knife: For cutting the pumpkin and scoring the brie.
  • Spoon: For scooping out pumpkin seeds and membranes.
  • Pastry Brush (optional): For evenly coating the pumpkin and brie with maple syrup.
All the fresh ingredients laid out on a white marble counter, ready to be transformed into a delicious pumpkin baked brie with maple, pecans, and rosemary.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Pumpkin Baked Brie

Creating this impressive appetizer is simpler than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a perfectly baked brie, nestled in its festive pumpkin home.

  • Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and prevents any potential sticking.
  • Maple Pecan Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans with 1 tablespoon of the maple syrup. Stir well until the pecans are evenly coated. This will allow them to caramelize beautifully in the oven, adding incredible flavor and crunch.
  • Pumpkin Preparation: Carefully cut the top off of your mini pumpkin to create a lid. Using a sturdy spoon, meticulously scrape out all the seeds and fibrous membranes from the inside, ensuring the pumpkin walls and base remain intact. Once clean, pat the inside of the pumpkin thoroughly dry with a paper towel. This prevents the pumpkin from becoming soggy. Finally, brush the interior of the pumpkin with some of the remaining maple syrup. This not only adds flavor but also helps to protect the pumpkin flesh during baking.
A visual guide showing the initial steps to prepare the pumpkin and pecans for the baked brie, including cutting, scooping, and coating.
  • Brie Preparation: Take your wheel of brie and, if necessary, carefully trim around its edge to ensure it will fit snugly and smoothly into your hollowed-out pumpkin bowl. Next, with a sharp knife, score the top rind of the brie wheel in a crisscross pattern, about 1/8 inch deep. This scoring allows the cheese to melt evenly and creates a beautiful pattern as it bakes.
  • Assemble and Glaze: Gently place the prepared brie wheel down into the pumpkin. Carefully transfer the pumpkin onto your prepared baking sheet. Now, brush the top of the brie wheel with more of the remaining maple syrup. This final glaze will give the brie a lovely golden sheen and impart even more delightful sweetness.
Step-by-step imagery demonstrating how to trim the brie, place it inside the prepared mini pumpkin, and brush with maple syrup before baking.
  • Add Toppings: Generously top the brie with the maple pecan mixture. Evenly sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of the finely chopped fresh rosemary over the pecans and brie. The rosemary will release its wonderful aroma as it bakes.
The assembled pumpkin brie, topped with maple pecans and fresh rosemary, sitting on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ready for the oven.
  • Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the brie cheese is gloriously melted and gooey, and the pecans on top are beautifully caramelized to a golden-brown. Once baked, carefully remove from the oven and let it sit for about 3 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
  • Final Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of chopped fresh rosemary and a delicate pinch of flaky sea salt over the top. These final touches add both visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor.
The finished pumpkin baked brie, fresh out of the oven, with perfectly melted cheese, caramelized pecans, and fresh rosemary, still on the baking sheet.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers

While it’s unlikely you’ll have much leftover Pumpkin Baked Brie, if you do, proper storage is key to enjoying it again. To store, carefully remove the baked brie cheese from the pumpkin shell and transfer it to an airtight container. Leftover brie can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For reheating, the best method is in the oven. Place the leftover brie in an oven-safe dish, cover it loosely with foil, and reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven until the brie is melted and warm throughout, which typically takes about 10 minutes. While you can microwave leftover brie, be aware that this method tends to make the cheese rubbery and the pecans chewy, so the oven is highly recommended for maintaining the best texture and flavor.

A metal spoon scooping a generous portion of warm, gooey baked brie, topped with pecans and rosemary, out of its charming mini pumpkin bowl.

Serving Suggestions and Flavor Variations

This Pumpkin Baked Brie is incredibly versatile. Beyond the classic crackers and crostini, consider serving it with apple slices, pear wedges, or even pretzel crisps for a different texture. For an extra touch of indulgence, a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of fig jam (as mentioned in a previous version!) can elevate the experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage, or swap out pecans for walnuts or chopped almonds for a different nutty profile. Dried cranberries or apricots could also be folded into the pecan mixture for added sweetness and chewiness.

Pairing Perfection: What to Drink

To truly complete your autumnal feast, consider pairing your Pumpkin Baked Brie with a suitable beverage. For wine lovers, a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or an unoaked Chardonnay would cut through the richness of the brie beautifully. If you prefer reds, a light-bodied Pinot Noir with its earthy notes can be a wonderful complement. For those who enjoy craft beers, a Belgian Dubbel or a rich Amber Ale would pair splendidly with the maple and pecan flavors. And for non-alcoholic options, a sparkling cider or a spiced apple tea would be equally delightful.

Explore More of The Best Party Dip Recipes

Whether you’re hosting a holiday celebration, cheering on your favorite team on game day, or simply enjoying a casual family get-together, there’s always a perfect dip for the occasion! My collection of The Best Party Dip Recipes features a variety of easy-to-make, undeniably delicious, and absolutely guaranteed crowd-pleasers that will keep your guests coming back for more. From savory spreads to creamy concoctions, you’re sure to find a new favorite to add to your entertaining arsenal.

Pumpkin Baked Brie with Maple, Pecans and Rosemary Recipe Card

This detailed recipe card provides everything you need to recreate this delightful fall appetizer.

Baked brie in a hollowed out mini pumpkin topped with chopped pecans and rosemary on a wooden board on white marble counter. There are crackers and crostini on the board surrounding the pumpkin.

Pumpkin Baked Brie with Maple, Pecans and Rosemary








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  • Author:
    The BakerMama
  • Prep Time:
    10 minutes
  • Cook Time:
    15 minutes
  • Total Time:
    25 minutes
  • Yield:
    6-8 Servings
Print Recipe

Description

Add some easy elegance to your autumn get-together with this Pumpkin Baked Brie. Warm brie baked right into a mini pumpkin and topped with maple pecans and fresh rosemary, it’s a delight you’re sure to fall for.


Ingredients

  • 1 mini pumpkin (slightly larger than the round of brie which is 4” wide)
  • 1 (8-ounce) wheel soft ripened Brie cheese
  • 1/3 cup chopped pecans
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary, divided
  • Flaky sea salt, for garnishing

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Toss the chopped pecans with 1 tablespoon of the maple syrup until well coated.
  3. Cut the top off of the pumpkin to create a lid. Carefully scrape out the seeds and membranes with a spoon, keeping the sides and bases intact. Pat the inside of the pumpkin dry and then brush with some of the remaining maple syrup.
  4. Trim around the edge of the brie wheel so that it will fit smoothly into the pumpkin bowl. Score the top of the Brie wheel with a sharp knife, about 1/8 inch deep, in a crisscross pattern.
  5. Place the Brie wheel down in the hollowed-out pumpkin and set it on the prepared sheet pan. Brush the top of the brie wheel with more of the remaining maple syrup.
  6. Top the brie with the pecan mixture. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of the chopped fresh rosemary.
  7. Bake on the middle rack of the oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the nuts are caramelized on top. Let sit for 3 minutes before serving.
  8. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary and a little flaky sea salt for garnish.

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xoxo,

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