Apple Cranberry Brie Quesadillas with Hot Honey

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Apple Cranberry Brie Quesadillas with Hot Honey

Description

These Apple Cranberry Brie Quesadillas with Hot Honey are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and spicy. Melted brie cheese pairs beautifully with crisp apples and tart dried cranberries, all wrapped in a golden, buttery tortilla. A drizzle of homemade hot honey adds gentle heat and depth, making this dish ideal for appetizers, brunch, light dinners, or holiday entertaining.

Ingredients

For the Quesadillas

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 wheel (6–8 oz) brie cheese, sliced (rind on is fine)
  • 1 large apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended)
  • â…“ cup dried cranberries
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped (optional)

For the Hot Honey

  • 3 tbsp honey
  • ½–1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • (Optional) ½ tsp lemon juice, for brightness

Instructions

1. Make the Hot Honey

  1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey and red pepper flakes.
  2. Warm gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally (do not boil).
  3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice if using.
  4. Set aside to infuse while you prepare the quesadillas.

2. Assemble the Quesadillas

  1. Lay tortillas flat on a clean surface.
  2. On half of each tortilla, layer:
    • Brie slices
    • Apple slices
    • Dried cranberries
    • Optional chopped herbs
  3. Fold tortillas in half.

3. Cook

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Melt butter in the pan.
  3. Cook quesadillas 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and the brie is fully melted.
  4. Remove and rest for 1 minute before slicing.

4. Serve

  • Slice into wedges.
  • Drizzle with warm hot honey just before serving.

Notes

  • Brie rind is edible and melts smoothly, adding flavor.
  • Slice apples thinly to ensure they soften during cooking.
  • Hot honey can be made ahead and stored for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use medium heat to prevent burning while the cheese melts.
  • For extra crunch, lightly toast the apple slices before assembling.
  • Add toasted walnuts or pecans for texture.
  • For a savory twist, add a few slices of prosciutto before cooking.

Servings

  • Serves: 4 people
  • Yield: 4 large quesadillas (8–12 appetizer wedges)

Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~420 kcal
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg

(Values may vary based on brands and portion size.)

Health Benefits

  • Apples: High in fiber and antioxidants, support digestion and heart health.
  • Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants and beneficial for urinary tract health.
  • Brie Cheese: Provides calcium, protein, and healthy fats.
  • Honey: Natural sweetener with antimicrobial properties.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Boost metabolism and circulation.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply use gluten-free tortillas.

Q: What’s the best apple to use?
A: Honeycrisp for sweetness or Granny Smith for a tart contrast.

Q: Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?
A: Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping once.

Q: Is hot honey very spicy?
A: It’s mildly spicy. Reduce red pepper flakes for less heat or increase for more kick.

Q: Can these be made ahead?
A: Assemble ahead, refrigerate, and cook fresh for best texture.

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