Crispy Brie with Cranberry Relish
Published Jan 08, 2026
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A ’90s Appetizer That Deserves a Comeback
If you hosted or attended dinner parties in the 1990s, chances are you encountered some version of baked or fried brie on the appetizer table. It was rich, indulgent, and just fancy enough to feel special. Somewhere along the way, this classic fell out of the spotlight—but we think crispy brie is overdue for a comeback.
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This updated take on the iconic ’90s appetizer keeps everything we loved about the original and elevates it for today’s table with better texture, better balance, and a more refined topping: Terrapin Ridge Farms Cranberry Relish with Grand Marnier.
Why Brie and Cranberry Are a Natural Flavor Pairing
Brie and cranberry have stood the test of time for one simple reason—they work beautifully together. This pairing has been popular for decades because it balances flavor and texture in a way that feels both indulgent and approachable.
- Creamy and mild brie tempers cranberry’s bright acidity
- Sweet-tart cranberry cuts through the richness of the cheese
- Warm brie and cool relish create contrast in both temperature and texture
It’s a combination that feels festive without being overpowering, making it ideal for entertaining in any season.
How This Version Elevates a Classic
What sets this modern version apart is the attention to texture and the quality of the topping. Instead of simply baking the brie, it’s coated and pan-fried until golden, creating a crisp exterior that holds in the soft, melty center.
The finishing touch, Terrapin Ridge Farms Cranberry Relish with Grand Marnier, takes this appetizer far beyond its ’90s roots. The addition of Grand Marnier brings subtle orange and citrus notes that enhance the cranberry’s natural tartness while complementing the richness of the brie. It adds depth, sophistication, and a restaurant-quality feel without extra effort.
A Naturally Crowd-Friendly Appetizer
This crispy brie appetizer is not only nostalgic and elevated, but it’s also designed with inclusivity in mind. It’s gluten-free, nut-free, soy-free, and vegetarian, making it a smart choice for entertaining guests with dietary restrictions.
Serve it with gluten-free crackers, apple slices, or fresh vegetables to create a shareable centerpiece that works for nearly everyone at the table.
Perfect for Modern Entertaining
This revived classic fits seamlessly into today’s entertaining style:
- Ideal for holiday gatherings and winter hosting
- Elegant enough for cocktail parties and wine nights
- Nostalgic yet refined for multi-generational gatherings
- Simple but impressive for last-minute entertaining
It’s the kind of appetizer that sparks conversation—often starting with, “I haven’t had this in years!”
Nostalgia, Updated for Today’s Table
Crispy brie may have had its moment in the ’90s, but this elevated version proves it still deserves a place on modern menus. With a crisp golden coating, a luxuriously soft center, and the sophisticated finish of Terrapin Ridge Farms Cranberry Relish with Grand Marnier, this appetizer honors the past while tasting completely current.
Sometimes the best recipes aren’t trends, they’re classics waiting to be rediscovered.
Gluten-Free Crispy Pan-fried Brie with Cranberry Relish
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) wheel of brie
- ¼ cup gluten-free flour blend
- 2 large eggs, beaten with a splash of water
- 1 cup seasoned gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 1 cup gluten-free panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup Terrapin Ridge Farms Cranberry Relish with Grand Marnier
- Gluten-free crackers, apple slices, or veggie sticks for serving
Instructions
- Place the wheel of brie in the freezer for 15 minutes.
- Place the eggs, flour, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls or dishes. Dip the brie into the flour coating the entire round. Then dip into the egg making sure the egg coats the entire cheese. Press into the breadcrumbs until evenly and fully coated.
- Line a plate with paper towels. Put the oil and butter into a skillet large enough to hold the brie and heat over medium-high heat until the butter melts and starts to sizzle. Add the brie and cook for 2 – 3 minutes or until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for 2 – 3 minutes or until golden brown. Using a large spatula, remove and place it on the paper towel-lined plate. Let sit for a minute or two before transferring to a serving plate. Top with the Cranberry Relish
- Serve with gluten-free crackers, apple slices, or fresh veggies.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
