Why Make This Recipe
The Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath is a delightful appetizer that combines creamy cheese, tangy cranberry, and crunchy nuts. This festive dish is perfect for holiday gatherings and will impress your guests. Not only does it look stunning on your table, but it also offers a delicious burst of flavors that everyone will love. It’s easy to make, and its eye-catching presentation makes it a centerpiece at any festive occasion.
How to Make Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath
Ingredients:
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place a small oven-safe bowl (about 4 inches in diameter) in the center of the baking sheet to use as a guide for the wreath shape.
- Roll out puff pastry sheets slightly. Cut each sheet into 8 triangular strips, creating 16 triangles total.
- Arrange the triangular strips in a circle around the bowl, with the wide ends overlapping in the center and pointed ends facing outward, creating a sunburst pattern.
- Place small cubes of Brie cheese on the wide overlapping section of each triangle. Add a small spoonful of cranberry sauce on top of the cheese. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and fresh rosemary.
- Fold the pointed end of each triangle over the filling and tuck underneath the wide end in the center, creating a wreath shape. Remove the bowl from the center.
- Mix beaten egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the egg wash over the entire wreath for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries to create a festive holiday look. Dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve warm with extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.
How to Serve Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath
This delightful wreath is best served warm. Place it in the center of your table as a beautiful centerpiece. Serve it with a small bowl of cranberry sauce on the side for dipping. The combination of warm Brie and tart cranberry makes for a perfect bite.
How to Store Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath
If you have leftovers, store the cooled wreath in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Tips to Make Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath
- Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before using to ensure it rolls out easily.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts or herbs based on your taste preferences.
- For a little extra sweetness, add a drizzle of honey over the top before serving.
Variation
You can customize your wreath by adding other ingredients like figs, apples, or even different cheeses such as goat cheese or cheddar.
FAQs
Can I make this wreath ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the wreath a few hours in advance. Assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate until you are ready to bake.
Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade cranberry sauce adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor.
What if I can’t find Brie cheese?
You can substitute Brie with Camembert or any soft cheese that melts well.
Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A stunning holiday appetizer that combines creamy Brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and crunchy nuts, perfect for festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place a small oven-safe bowl (about 4 inches in diameter) in the center of the baking sheet to use as a guide for the wreath shape.
- Roll out puff pastry sheets slightly. Cut each sheet into 8 triangular strips, creating 16 triangles total.
- Arrange the triangular strips in a circle around the bowl, with the wide ends overlapping in the center and pointed ends facing outward, creating a sunburst pattern.
- Place small cubes of Brie cheese on the wide overlapping section of each triangle. Add a small spoonful of cranberry sauce on top of the cheese. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and fresh rosemary.
- Fold the pointed end of each triangle over the filling and tuck underneath the wide end in the center, creating a wreath shape. Remove the bowl from the center.
- Mix beaten egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the egg wash over the entire wreath for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries to create a festive holiday look. Dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
Best served warm with extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
