This Brie Cranberry Wreath is a real showstopper! It features creamy Brie cheese wrapped in flaky pastry with a sweet and tangy cranberry filling. Perfect for sharing at parties!
Honestly, who can resist warm, gooey cheese? I love serving it with crackers and fresh fruit. It’s so easy to make, and my guests always ask for the recipe. Try it, you’ll be the hero of the party! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky base is essential for a nice texture. If you can’t find puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough, but it won’t be as flaky. Chilling it before use helps for easier handling.
Brie Cheese: Brie is creamy and rich. If you want a stronger flavor, you could substitute Camembert. Note that the texture and taste will differ slightly, but it will still taste delicious!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries work well for a tart flavor, but frozen also do the trick. No cranberries? Use cherry or raspberry jam for a similar tangy boost!
Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add crunch. You can skip these if nut allergies are a concern or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Orange Juice & Zest: This adds bright flavor. If you’re out of oranges, lemon juice can substitute, but it’ll be a bit zestier.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Gold and Flaky Pastry?
Getting that pastry crispy and golden is what makes this dish stand out. Here’s how:
- Don’t skip the egg wash—it gives the pastry its beautiful shine. Beat an egg thoroughly and brush it over the exposed pastry.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps the puff pastry rise properly.
- When shaping the wreath, don’t stress if it’s not perfect; a little rustic charm is part of its appeal!
- Letting the wreath cool for a few minutes before serving helps set the cheese slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Enjoy the cooking journey, and relish the compliments when you serve this stunning wreath!
Brie Cranberry Wreath
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 wheel (8 oz) Brie cheese
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 25-30 minutes for baking. In total, you can expect around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet impressive appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier later on.
2. Prepare the Cranberry Filling:
In a small saucepan, mix the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and chopped rosemary. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on it as the cranberries will burst and the mixture will start to thicken. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once thickened, stir in the chopped nuts and cook for one more minute. Afterward, set it aside to cool.
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry into a circle, aiming for about 12 inches in diameter. This circle will be the beautiful base of your wreath!
4. Add the Brie:
If you’d like, you can trim the rind off the top of the Brie wheel to help it melt better (this step is optional). Place the Brie right in the center of your puff pastry circle.
5. Layer on the Goodness:
Spread the cooled cranberry mixture over the top of the Brie. This is where the magic happens—sweet and savory all in one bite!
6. Cut and Shape the Wreath:
Using a knife, cut the pastry into strips (around 12 strips), starting from the edge of the Brie to the outside edge of the pastry circle. No need to stress about being perfect!
7. Wrap the Wreath:
Now, fold each strip over the topping and Brie, slightly overlapping them as you go. This forms your lovely wreath shape.
8. Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush a light layer over the pastry. This will give your wreath a beautiful golden finish as it bakes.
9. Bake the Wreath:
Put your wreath in the preheated oven and bake it for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want it to be puffed and golden brown when it’s done.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Take the wreath out of the oven and garnish it with extra rosemary sprigs for a nice touch. Let it cool for about 5 minutes, then serve warm with crackers or sliced baguette for the ultimate indulgence.
Enjoy this festive Brie Cranberry Wreath as a perfect appetizer or party centerpiece! It’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce Instead of Making the Filling?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using store-bought cranberry sauce is a great shortcut. Just mix it with chopped nuts and a splash of orange juice for added flavor before spreading it over the Brie.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Prepare This Wreath in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the wreath ahead of time! Assemble it completely but don’t bake it. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just brush with the egg wash and bake!
What Can I Serve with the Brie Cranberry Wreath?
This festive wreath pairs beautifully with crackers, sliced baguette, or even fresh fruits like apple slices and grapes. For a touch of contrast, include some savory cheeses or charcuterie on the serving platter.