Maple Pecan Brie Apples with Thyme

Melted Brie getting mixed with warm maple syrup, toasted pecans, and the soft thyme flavour is something really special. The very first time I prepared this dish, I did not have a high expectation, just a quick autumnal snack before the main course. One mouthful was enough to bring me to a halt. It was all in one—the buttery, nutty, sweet, and savoury flavour. I always prepare it during the apple harvest, when the nights are moderately cold, and the wind has a slight wood smoke scent.

A Quick Introduction

This Maple Pecan Brie Apples with Thyme recipe is my definition of cosy elegance. Sliced juicy apple layered with creamy baked Brie, drizzled with golden maple syrup, and sprinkled with toasted pecans and a few thyme sprigs. It is rustic yet refined, and a dish that can be easily seen on both a casual snack board and a holiday table.

Why This Recipe Is Special

What sets this recipe apart is the way it blends simplicity with sophistication effortlessly. Fancy tools or complicated steps are totally unnecessary. The real magic is in how these very few ingredients—each one quite unassuming by itself—come together to create something so luxurious. Brie is rich, apples are crisp, maple syrup is warm, and thyme cuts through the sweetness just right to balance every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simply stunning: Takes no more than 20 minutes to make but looks like a million bucks.
• Sweet and savoury perfect match: Maple syrup and apples are paired with creamy Brie and earthy.
• Thyme—a flavour love story. Ideal for hosting: Can be served as an appetiser, snack, or cheese board part in the fall.
• Versatile: Swap the nuts, drizzle with honey, or even use pears if that’s your preference.

Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need a chef’s kitchen—just a few essentials:

• Baking sheet or oven-safe dish: For melting the Brie and roasting the apples evenly.
• Parchment paper: Keeps cleanup simple and prevents sticking.
• Sharp knife: To slice apples thinly and evenly (a serrated knife helps if they’re firm).
• Small skillet: For toasting pecans and enhancing their flavour.
• Spatula or small spoon: For drizzling the maple syrup beautifully over the top.
• Serving platter or board: Presentation matters—this dish deserves a nice spread.

Ingredients

For 6 servings

• One wheel (8 oz / 225 g) Brie cheese – creamy and mild, melts perfectly.
• 2 medium apples (about 10 oz / 280 g) – Honeycrisp or Fuji work best for sweetness and crunch.
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) pure maple syrup – the good stuff, not pancake syrup.
• 1/3 cup (35 g) pecans – roughly chopped and toasted for a deep, nutty flavour.
• One teaspoon fresh thyme leaves – adds an earthy note that balances the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon (14 g) unsalted butter – for toasting the pecans.
• Pinch of sea salt – optional, but it sharpens every flavour.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a small baking sheet and place a piece of parchment paper on top. Later on, you will thank yourself for the melted Brie not sticking to the pan.

2. Slice the Apples

The apples are to be sliced into wedges that are thin wedges, approximately 1/4-inch thick. You want them to be so thin that they get slightly softened in the oven, but still be able to maintain their form.

Tip: Leave the skin on for colour and texture.

3. Toast the Pecans

Use a small frying pan to melt the butter at medium heat. Put the pecans in and toast them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become golden and emit a pleasant aroma. Don’t wander off—the pecans can change from toasted to burnt very quickly.

4. Bake the Brie

Put the Brie on the baking sheet that you prepared. Stack the apple slices around it in a single layer, slightly overlapping. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the Brie is soft in the middle and the apples are just beginning to caramelise. You’ll know it’s ready when a gentle press with a spoon makes the Brie dimple slightly.

5. Drizzle and Sprinkle

Take it out of the oven and immediately pour the maple syrup over the Brie and the apples. Top them with the toasted pecans and thyme leaves. If you love contrast, add just a tiny pinch of sea salt.

6. Serve Warm

Do not wait to serve it when the Brie is still gooey. Slice the cheese and let it run out onto the apples—it is a wonderful mess.

Serving Ideas

• On a cheese board: Add prosciutto, grapes, and crackers for an easy party platter.
• As dessert: Drizzle extra maple syrup and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• For brunch: Pair with warm croissants or thick slices of toasted sourdough.

Variations and Customisations

• Switch the fruit: Try pears, figs, or even peaches.
• Play with nuts: Walnuts, hazelnuts, or pistachios are all lovely options.
• Add a drizzle: Honey, balsamic glaze, or a touch of hot honey for a spicy twist.
• Make it savoury: Add caramelised onions or a pinch of crushed chilli flakes for depth.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Make-Ahead: You can toast the pecans and slice the apples a few hours in advance. Just brush the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Storage: If you somehow have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 5–7 minutes until the Brie softens again.

Pro Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Pro Tips:

• Let the Brie come to room temperature before baking—it melts more evenly.
• Toasting the pecans in butter instead of dry gives them extra richness.
• Use real maple syrup; the fake stuff is too sweet and lacks depth.
• Add thyme right after baking so it releases its aroma without burning.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Don’t overbake the Brie—it’ll burst and lose its creaminess.
• Avoid super tart apples like Granny Smith; they overpower the maple flavour.
• Don’t overcrowd the apples, or they’ll steam instead of caramelise.

Recipe Summary

• Yield: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Calories per serving: ~210 kcal

Nutrition (Per Serving)

NutrientAmount

Calories 210 kcal

Fat 12 g

Carbohydrates 18 g

Protein 6 g

Sugar 13 g

Fiber 2 g

A Warm Note to You

I really hope you try this Maple Pecan Brie Apples with Thyme recipe—it’s one of those dishes that turns ordinary moments into something memorable. When you take that first bite—the creamy cheese melting into sweet maple and crisp apple—you’ll see why I fell in love with it.