Heat oven to 350°F.
In small saucepan, combine honey, cranberries, pepper, orange peel, and thyme and bring to a simmer; simmer, stirring occasionally and lightly smashing cranberries, until cranberries have softened and syrup slightly thickens, 2 to 3 minutes. Discard orange peel and thyme, transfer to bowl, and let cool 10 minutes.
Place Brie in 6-inch cast-iron skillet. Spoon cranberry syrup on top and bake until cheese is soft, 7 to 9 minutes. Top with almonds, additional thyme, and orange zest if desired. Serve with crackers and sliced baguette.
