New Year's Eve, Quick and Easy Appetizer.

With the quick approach of New Year's Eve, and an even faster approach of school starting up again (tomorrow... eek!), I needed something easy to make for the party I was attending on the 31st.  As I was getting ready for the day, I mentally sifted through my arsenal of appetizer recipes, and instantly thought of my Aunt Cindy's baked brie.  She had made it for Thanksgiving this year, and it was a hit with everyone.

It's sweet and nutty flavors are offset by the creamy texture of the cheese and the tartness of the dried cranberries... And not to mention quick to make!  Its my favorite thing to make for any party now, and I hope it'll become a classic in your recipe box as well.  Here's its recipe and bleuprint, my first of 2011!

Aunt Cindy's Baked Brie

Recipe courtesy of Cindy Nelson, Serves: Many (16-20 Slices)

1 Mini-round Brie
1 handful chopped Pecans or Walnuts
1 handful Brown Sugar
1 handful Dried Cranberries
1 package pre-made Pie Crust
1 Egg yolk
Splash of Water

Note: I usually get the nuts and cranberries in the bulk bins at the grocery store.  I only buy what I need, and that way I save money.  If you do end up buying (or mixing) more than you need, they're great on top of instant oatmeal.  I'm sure this would also taste wonderful with other dried fruit.

Pre-heat oven to 400F.

Photo: Amy Perenchio

In a small bowl combine the egg yolk and a little water to create an egg wash.  Set aside.  In another bowl combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and dried cranberries.

Photo: Amy Perenchio

Unroll pre-made pie crust, and place brie round in center.  Top brie with the sugar, nut, fruit mixture.

Photo: Amy Perenchio

Fold pie crust up around the brie, working your way around the round, using the egg wash as "glue".  The pack of pie crust I buy comes with two, I usually cut out shapes of the second and use them as decoration.  Use the egg wash to glue them on, and then lightly coat remaining dough with egg wash.

Photo: Amy Perenchio

Bake until pie crust just starts to get golden brown, 10-15 minutes.  Let sit 15 minutes before cutting. (This is perfect if you have to drive to the party, because the uncut brie stays warm and melted for awhile.)  Serve on a cutting board, letting guests cut their own slices.  Eat, enjoy!