Baked Brie with California Golden Raisins, Walnuts & Honey

This easy baked brie recipe is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and savory. Made with golden California Raisins, walnuts, honey, and a touch of heat—this show-stopping appetizer is ideal for any time of year! From holiday parties, cozy gatherings, summer nights or any time you want melted cheese magic.

Table of Contents

• Why I Love This Recipe
• A Little Note on Raisins (and Why You Should Love Them Too)
• Ingredients You’ll Need
• Directions
• Substitutions & Variations
• How to Store Leftovers
• Other Baked Brie Recipes
• Final Thoughts

Why I Love This Recipe

As a true cheese lover, I firmly believe that baked brie is always a good idea. It’s elegant yet unfussy, impressive without the effort. And let’s be honest, melted cheese will never not be irresistible.

I made this recipe last weekend for a little dinner party, and it reminded me how perfect bundling up a warm wheel of brie can be. What I especially love about this version is the combination of honey, crunchy walnuts, and golden California Raisins. It’s the ideal balance of sweet, salty, nutty, and spicy. The golden raisins add an unexpected burst of brightness and chew that complements the richness of the cheese beautifully.

A Little Note on Raisins (and Why You Should Love Them Too)

I always keep a stash of California Raisins in my pantry. They’re incredibly versatile—not just for baking but for adding subtle sweetness to savory dishes like this one. A few fun facts I picked up from California Raisins:

• California Raisins are naturally sweet—no added sugar required, making them a great wholesome way to add flavor.
• They’re high in fiber and potassium, making them a nutrient-dense pantry staple.
• They’re also sustainably grown under the California sun by family farmers. Supporting California Raisins means supporting sustainable farming communities.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 wheel of brie cheese – Around 8 oz (double or triple the recipe for a crowd). I like to use a creamy, mild brie with a thin rind.
• ½ cup golden California Raisins – Their sweet, floral notes make them perfect with cheese.
• ¼ cup walnuts – Roughly chopped for crunch. You can also use pecans or pistachios.
• 3 tbsp honey – For a rich, glossy finish. Maple syrup also works here.
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes – Adjust to taste; just enough to balance the sweetness.
• Salt and black pepper – A pinch of each brings everything together.

Optional: A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to tuck around the brie before baking.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Score the top of the brie rind lightly with a sharp knife in a criss-cross pattern. This helps the toppings melt in beautifully.
3. Bake the brie for about 20 minutes, or until softened and melty. You’ll know it’s ready when you press the center and it feels soft and warm.
4. Meanwhile, make the topping: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the golden raisins, walnuts, honey, red pepper flakes, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove the brie from the oven, transfer to a serving dish or board, and spoon the warm honey-raisin-walnut mixture over the top.
6. Serve immediately with crackers, warm crostini, or apple slices.

Substitutions & Variations

• Make it savory: Skip the honey and use roasted garlic, chopped olives, and herbs for a more savory take.
• Try different nuts: Almonds or pistachios are lovely alternatives to walnuts.
• Use fig jam or cranberry sauce instead of honey for seasonal flair.
• Wrap it in puff pastry: For a more decadent version, wrap the brie in puff pastry and bake until golden and flaky (35–40 mins at 400°F).

How to Store Leftovers

If (and that’s a big if) you have leftovers, scrape the remaining cheese and topping into a container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It’s incredible on toasted bread or stirred into pasta for a quick gourmet lunch.

Other Baked Brie Recipes

• Baked Brie with Balsamic Strawberries

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about baked brie. It feels a little indulgent but couldn’t be easier to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, prepping for the holidays, or just having a cozy night in, this baked brie with golden California Raisins and honey will always impress.

Try it once, and I promise—it’ll become your go-to appetizer.