Whenever I need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for game day or holiday gatherings, this Maple Bacon Brie Cheese is one of my go-to appetizers.

Warm, melty brie topped with crispy bacon and sweet maple syrup hits that perfect balance of salty, sweet, and creamy that keeps people coming back for “just one more bite.”

Inspired by the Love Bakes Good Cakes version, this recipe is incredibly simple but feels indulgent and special.

It comes together quickly, looks impressive on the table, and pairs beautifully with everything from crusty bread to crackers—making it ideal for Super Bowl parties and casual entertaining.

Jump to Recipe

Recipe Highlights

This Maple Bacon Brie Cheese combines rich, creamy brie with smoky bacon and sweet maple syrup for an irresistible flavor contrast.

As it bakes, the brie softens into a scoopable, gooey centerpiece that’s perfect for sharing.

The topping adds texture and depth, with crisp bacon balanced by the natural sweetness of maple syrup.

The result is a warm appetizer that feels indulgent without being complicated.

Best of all, it requires minimal prep and only a few ingredients, making it an easy win when hosting.

  • Sweet and savory flavor combination
    .
  • Creamy, melty brie with crispy bacon
    .
  • Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
    .
  • Perfect for Super Bowl parties and gatherings

Ingredient Notes

  • Brie Cheese Wheel: Forms the creamy base of the dish and becomes perfectly melty when baked.
    .
  • Bacon: Adds smoky, salty crunch that balances the richness of the brie.
    .
  • Pure Maple Syrup: Brings natural sweetness and a glossy finish to the topping.
    .
  • Brown Sugar: Enhances the caramelized flavor of the bacon mixture.
    .
  • Garlic (Optional): Adds a subtle savory note to balance the sweetness.
    .
  • Crackers or Bread (For Serving): Provide structure for scooping the soft, melted brie.

How to Make My Maple Bacon Brie Cheese

Step 1: Start by cooking the bacon until crisp, then drain and chop it into small pieces.

Step 2: In a small skillet, combine the cooked bacon with maple syrup and brown sugar, letting it simmer briefly until thick and glossy.

Step 3: Place the brie in a baking dish and bake until soft and melty.

Step 4: Spoon the warm maple bacon mixture over the brie and serve immediately.

Maple Bacon Brie Cheese Appetizer

Serving Suggestions

Maple Bacon Brie Cheese is best served warm, while the cheese is soft and scoopable. Pair it with sliced baguette, crackers, or crostini for a classic presentation, or add apple slices and pears for a fresh contrast.

It also works beautifully as part of a larger game-day spread alongside dips, charcuterie, and finger foods.

Tips for the Best Maple Bacon Brie Cheese

Use a good-quality wheel of brie for the best flavor and texture. A full-fat brie melts more evenly, creating a rich, creamy center that makes this dish so appealing.

Cook the bacon until fully crisp before adding it to the maple mixture. This prevents it from becoming chewy once baked and helps it retain its texture against the soft cheese.

Keep a close eye on the brie while baking. You want it soft and melty, but not so hot that it collapses completely or leaks excessively.

Variations & Substitutions

For added crunch and depth, stir chopped pecans or walnuts into the maple bacon topping. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the syrup and the richness of the brie.

If you’d like a stronger cheese flavor, try using a triple-cream brie or camembert. Both melt well and offer a slightly bolder taste without overpowering the topping.

To reduce sweetness, cut back slightly on the maple syrup and add cracked black pepper or a pinch of chili flakes for balance.

Can I Make This Ahead?

Yes, this recipe works well with some preparation. The maple bacon topping can be cooked up to one day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to serve, reheat the topping gently while baking the brie fresh. This keeps the cheese at the ideal texture while saving time.

For best results, assemble and bake the brie just before serving so it stays warm and creamy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking the brie is a common mistake and can cause it to lose its shape completely. Bake just until the center is soft and easily spreadable.

Using pre-cooked or store-bought bacon bits can result in less flavor and poor texture. Freshly cooked bacon delivers the best taste and crispness.

Skipping the resting time after baking can cause the topping to slide off. Let the brie sit for a minute or two so everything settles before serving.

Maple Bacon Brie Cheese Recipe

Recipe by JoanneCourse: AppetizerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6-8

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

15

minutes
Calories per serving

320

kcal

This Maple Bacon Brie Cheese is a warm, sweet-savory appetizer that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing at parties or game-day gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 wheel Brie cheese (8 ounces)

  • 6 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped

  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

  • ½ teaspoon minced garlic (optional)

Directions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  • Cook bacon until crispy, then drain and chop.
  • In a small skillet, combine bacon, maple syrup, brown sugar, and garlic if using. Simmer until slightly thickened.
  • Place brie in a small baking dish and bake until soft and melty.
  • Top the brie with the maple bacon mixture and serve warm.

Notes

  • Serve warm for the best texture
  • Adjust sweetness to taste
  • Pairs well with fruit and crackers

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Reheat gently in the oven until softened
    .
  • Best enjoyed fresh and warm
    .
  • Bacon topping can be prepared up to one day ahead
    .
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to remove the rind from the brie before baking?

No, the rind is completely edible and helps the brie hold its shape while baking.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon can be used, but it will not crisp or caramelize as well as pork bacon.

What can I serve with this besides crackers?

Sliced apples, pears, toasted baguette, or pretzel crisps all pair beautifully with maple bacon brie.

Do I need to remove the rind from the brie?

No, the rind is edible and helps the brie hold its shape while baking.

Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, but it won’t crisp or caramelize the same way as pork bacon.

What crackers work best?
Sturdy crackers or sliced baguette work best for scooping melted brie.

Maple Bacon Brie Cheese Appetizer