Maple Roasted Butternut Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Pecan

A beautiful combination of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy flavors, Maple Roasted Butternut Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Pecan is an elegant appetizer or side dish that’s perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday dinners, brunches, and entertaining.

Tender roasted butternut squash rounds are lightly glazed with maple syrup, topped with creamy melted Brie cheese, finished with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, and then baked until warm and irresistible.

Recipe Description

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Difficulty Level: Easy

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Servings: 6 servings (12 rounds)

Ingredients

For the Butternut Squash

• 1 large butternut squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

For the Toppings

• 6 ounces Brie cheese, cut into small pieces
• ⅓ cup dried cranberries
• ⅓ cup pecans, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife
• Vegetable peeler
• Small bowl
• Pastry brush

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Squash

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Peel the butternut squash.
4. Cut off both ends.
5. Slice the squash into ½-inch-thick rounds.
6. Remove any seeds from the rounds.

Step 2: Season the Squash

1. In a small bowl, combine:
   • Olive oil
   • Maple syrup
   • Salt
   • Pepper
   • Cinnamon (if using)
2. Brush both sides of each squash round with the maple mixture.

Step 3: Roast

1. Arrange the rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
3. The squash should become tender and lightly caramelized.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven.
2. Place a piece of Brie on each squash round.
3. Sprinkle with dried cranberries and chopped pecans.
4. Return to the oven for 5-8 minutes until the Brie softens.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from the oven.
2. Sprinkle with fresh thyme and parsley.
3. Serve immediately while warm.

Chef’s Notes

• Use a small-necked butternut squash for perfectly shaped rounds.
• Don’t overcook the Brie; it should soften rather than completely melt.
• Toast the pecans beforehand for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
• Pure maple syrup produces the best caramelization and flavor.
• Add the cranberries after baking if you prefer them to remain chewy.

Tips for Success

1. Slice Evenly

Cut the squash into equal-sized rounds so they cook evenly.

2. Don’t Crowd the Pan

Leave space between the rounds to encourage caramelization.

3. Use Room-Temperature Brie

Brie softens more evenly when it isn’t refrigerator-cold.

4. Flip Carefully

Turn the squash gently during roasting to prevent breakage.

5. Serve Fresh

These are best enjoyed immediately after baking.

Variations

Add Bacon

Top with crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.

Make It Vegetarian-Friendly

The recipe is already vegetarian.

Make It Vegan

Replace Brie with a plant-based cheese.

Add Heat

Sprinkle with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Add Fruit

Replace dried cranberries with pomegranate seeds or chopped dried cherries.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside:

• Roasted turkey
• Grilled chicken
• Pork tenderloin
• Holiday ham
• Mixed green salad
• Charcuterie boards

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

Health Benefits

Butternut Squash

• Rich in vitamin A
• Excellent source of fiber
• Contains antioxidants that support eye health
• Provides potassium for heart health

Brie Cheese

• Good source of calcium
• Contains protein
• Provides vitamin B12

Cranberries

• Rich in antioxidants
• May support urinary tract health
• Provide beneficial plant compounds

Pecans

• Contain healthy fats
• Rich in magnesium
• Support heart health

Maple Syrup

• Contains small amounts of manganese and zinc
• Offers natural sweetness with trace minerals

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:

Freezing isn’t recommended because the texture of the Brie and squash may change.

Reheating:

Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I prepare these ahead of time?

A: Yes. Roast the squash up to one day in advance. Add the toppings and reheat just before serving.

Q: Can I use another cheese?

A: Absolutely. Camembert, goat cheese, or feta are excellent alternatives.

Q: Can I use fresh cranberries?

A: Yes, but they should be lightly cooked first because fresh cranberries are much more tart than dried ones.

Q: How do I know when the squash is done?

A: A fork should easily pierce the center without the squash becoming mushy.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes. All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check packaged ingredients for possible cross-contamination.

Q: Can I serve this as an appetizer?

A: Definitely. These squash rounds make a sophisticated bite-sized appetizer for parties and holiday gatherings.