Caramelized Baked Apples with Brie, Pecans and Maple Thyme Glaze is the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with comfort and your table with joy. It’s sweet, savory, and just indulgent enough to feel special. If you love seasonal recipes with simple elegance, I’d love for you to subscribe — more cozy creations are just a click away.
When I think of the perfect fall afternoon, I picture golden leaves outside and a warm oven inside. This recipe was born on one of those quiet Sundays — when I craved something sweet but unfussy, and had a few Honeycrisp apples left from a weekend orchard run. With half a wheel of Brie on hand, the idea came quickly: tender baked apples, creamy Brie, toasted pecans, and a maple thyme glaze to tie it all together.
It became an instant favorite. I’ve served it on holiday tables, enjoyed it solo on chilly nights, and even had it for breakfast more than once. If you’ve ever tried something like warm Brie with fig jam, rosemary, and almonds, you know how Brie melts into a moment. This dish captures that same creamy magic — but with the cozy soul of fall in every bite.
Why This Recipe Is Special
What makes this dish unforgettable is its balance of flavor and texture. The apples roast until they’re tender and caramelized, the Brie melts into creamy richness, and the toasted pecans bring a buttery crunch that plays perfectly against the soft fruit. It’s sweet, savory, and just a little earthy — thanks to that hint of fresh thyme.
But the real magic is in the maple thyme glaze. It seeps into the apples and Brie as they bake, infusing every bite with warm, herbal sweetness that feels like fall on a fork.
Like mini phyllo cups with Brie, pecans and cranberry drizzle, this recipe walks that beautiful line between indulgent and approachable. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but elegant enough for your holiday table. And once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s one of those dishes people ask for again — and again.
Ingredients & Preparation
The Ingredients That Make It Shine
At its heart, this recipe celebrates simple, seasonal ingredients — the kind that bring comfort without needing much fuss. Here’s everything you’ll need to make Caramelized Baked Apples with Brie, Pecans and Maple Thyme Glaze:
Ingredient Breakdown
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crisp apples | 4 large | Honeycrisp or Pink Lady work beautifully |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp (plus 1 tbsp for glaze) | Melted for brushing and glaze |
| Brown sugar | 1 tbsp | Adds rich caramel flavor |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ tsp | For warm spice |
| Nutmeg | Pinch | Optional but recommended |
| Brie cheese | 4 oz | Rind removed, cubed |
| Chopped pecans | ¼ cup | Lightly toasted |
| Honey | 1 tbsp | For added sweetness in the filling |
| Pure maple syrup | 2 tbsp | Star of the glaze |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 tsp | For aroma and earthy contrast |
| Sea salt | Pinch | Balances sweetness |
Tools & Easy Swaps
You don’t need anything fancy to make this — just a baking dish, a brush for the butter, and a small saucepan for the glaze.
If you can’t find Brie, a triple cream cheese like Camembert works well. Granny Smith apples can replace Honeycrisp for a sharper contrast if you prefer something less sweet.
No pecans? Try chopped walnuts or slivered almonds — both toast beautifully and give a satisfying crunch.
A recipe like crispy flatbread with Brie, cranberries and toasted almonds proves just how versatile Brie can be, while pear, Brie and cranberry crostini with thyme honey shows how easily fruit and cheese create elegant flavor combinations.
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Caramelized Baked Apples with Brie, Pecans and Maple Thyme Glaze
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Caramelized Baked Apples with Brie, Pecans and Maple Thyme Glaze is a cozy, elegant fall dessert made with tender apples, creamy Brie, toasted pecans, and a sweet-savory maple thyme glaze — perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings in.
Ingredients
• 4 large crisp apples (like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• 4 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and cubed
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for glaze)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice a small portion off the bottom of each apple so it sits flat. Core halfway down using a spoon or melon baller.
2. Brush apples inside and out with melted butter. Sprinkle interiors with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a bowl, combine cubed Brie, toasted pecans, and honey. Fill each apple with this mixture.
4. Place apples in a baking dish. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until apples are tender and Brie is melted.
5. While baking, melt 1 tbsp butter in a small saucepan. Stir in maple syrup, thyme, and sea salt. Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
6. Drizzle warm glaze over baked apples. Let rest 5 minutes before serving warm.
Notes
– Camembert or a mild triple cream cheese can replace Brie.
– Use firm apples to help them hold shape after baking.
– For nut-free, omit pecans or swap with pumpkin seeds.
– Prep the apples ahead and bake right before serving for best texture.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days; reheat in a 300°F oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Cooking Instructions & Tips
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Caramelized Baked Apples with Brie, Pecans and Maple Thyme Glaze is surprisingly easy — and every step fills your kitchen with the smell of toasted spices, baked fruit, and melting cheese. Here’s how to bring it all together:
1. Preheat and prepare your apples.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice a small portion off the bottom of each apple so they sit flat. Then, use a spoon or melon baller to core them halfway — enough to make room for the filling.
2. Brush and season.
Brush the apples inside and out with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the insides with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg.
3. Make the filling.
In a small bowl, toss together cubed Brie, toasted pecans, and honey. Stuff the mixture evenly into each apple cavity.
4. Bake the apples.
Place the apples in a lightly greased baking dish. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender and the Brie is melted and golden.
5. Make the maple thyme glaze.
While the apples bake, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small pan. Stir in maple syrup, thyme leaves, and sea salt. Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
6. Glaze and serve.
Once baked, drizzle the warm glaze generously over each apple. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
Use firm apples so they hold their shape. Slightly underripe fruit works best — overly soft apples may collapse during baking. Don’t overfill the Brie mixture, or it may overflow (although, honestly, the melted bits on the pan are kind of delicious).
If you’re a fan of elegant baked cheese dishes like pistachio crusted Brie bites or golden baked Brie with caramelized apples and thyme, you’ll feel right at home with this one.
Serving, Storing & Pairing
What to Serve With It
These Caramelized Baked Apples with Brie, Pecans and Maple Thyme Glaze shine on their own, but pairing them thoughtfully makes them even more memorable.
Serve them warm as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped mascarpone. For a savory twist, plate them alongside a cheese board with crusty baguette slices or herbed crackers. The rich Brie and sweet apples also complement a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or even a chilled rosé.
For holiday spreads or gatherings, this dish fits perfectly among small-bite appetizers. If you’re building a platter, consider adding cranberry Brie and thyme puff pastry twists or baked Brie with roasted plums and thyme. The variety of fruit and cheese pairings creates a spread that feels luxurious but still seasonal and grounded.
And yes — leftovers make a surprisingly lovely breakfast. Just warm an apple and pair it with Greek yogurt or a piece of buttered toast. Cozy perfection.
How to Store and Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is rare in our house!), let the apples cool completely before storing. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible — it tends to break down the texture of the Brie and make the apples too soft.
If the glaze thickens in the fridge, a quick swirl in a small saucepan brings it back to life. You can even drizzle it over roasted vegetables or spoon it onto a slice of toast. It’s too good to waste.
This recipe’s flexible nature and comforting richness make it one you’ll want to come back to — whether you’re serving guests or savoring a quiet night in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese besides Brie?
Yes! While Brie gives this dish its creamy, earthy character, you can substitute with Camembert or even a mild triple-cream cheese. Just avoid anything too sharp — it may overpower the apples and maple glaze.
What’s the best apple variety for baking?
We love Honeycrisp and Pink Lady for their crisp texture and balance of sweetness. You can also use Granny Smith if you prefer a more tart flavor. Just choose apples that hold their shape while baking.
Can I make these baked apples ahead of time?
Yes, but they’re best served warm and fresh. You can prep the apples and filling a few hours ahead, refrigerate them, then bake just before serving. The glaze can also be made a day in advance and gently reheated.
Is it okay to leave the rind on the Brie?
That depends on your preference. The rind is edible, but for a smoother texture, we recommend removing it before cubing the cheese. It helps the Brie melt more evenly into the apples.
Are these baked apples gluten-free?
Absolutely — this recipe contains no flour or gluten-based ingredients. Just be mindful of what you serve alongside (such as crackers or bread) if preparing for someone with dietary needs.
Can I make this without nuts?
Of course! Simply omit the pecans or replace them with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch without the allergens.
Conclusion
There’s something about the way Caramelized Baked Apples with Brie, Pecans and Maple Thyme Glaze brings people to the table — maybe it’s the scent of baked fruit and butter, or the way the Brie melts into something rich and unforgettable. Whatever it is, this dish always disappears fast and leaves the kind of impression that lingers long after the plates are cleared.
Whether you’re serving it for guests, enjoying it solo with a glass of wine, or even sneaking a bite straight from the fridge, this recipe delivers that comforting, made-with-love feeling. And if you enjoy cozy, fruit-forward bites like this, you might also love my pear, Brie and cranberry crostini with thyme honey or these buttery mini phyllo cups with Brie, pecans and cranberry drizzle.
Looking to explore another take on this flavor pairing? I highly recommend this gorgeous pastry-wrapped baked Brie with maple butter roasted apples from Half Baked Harvest — it’s indulgent, layered, and perfect for cooler months.
This recipe is now a favorite in our fall rotation, and I hope it becomes one in yours too.