In my kitchen, this Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath always steals the show during holiday gatherings. It’s not just a feast for the eyes, but the blend of creamy brie and tart cranberry sauce tucked inside flaky puff pastry is simply irresistible. You’ll find this festive dish is perfect for family brunches, cozy winter evenings, or as an impressive appetizer at your next holiday party.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath combines simple ingredients and minimal effort with maximum flair. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be made in under an hour, making it an excellent choice for last-minute entertaining. The combination of rich cheese and sweet-tart cranberry pairs beautifully, creating a delightful balance that will have your guests coming back for more.
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 8
The Cooking Process Explained
Creating your Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath is a joyous experience! You’ll start by preparing the puff pastry and filling it with the delicious combination of brie and cranberry sauce. Next, you’ll assemble it into a beautiful wreath shape, brush it with egg wash, and bake it until golden. Let’s gather everything you need!
What You’ll Need
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 8 oz brie cheese (sliced into wedges)
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry recommended)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
Feel free to explore alternative options if you’re looking to mix things up with flavors or textural twists!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 8–10 triangles.
- Arrange the triangles in a circle with the pointed ends facing out.
- Layer the brie slices and cranberry sauce around the inner ring of the circle.
- Fold the tips of the triangle over the filling and tuck them under the inner edge to form a wreath.
- Brush the assembled wreath with egg wash and sprinkle the chopped rosemary on top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the wreath is golden and crisp. Serve warm and enjoy!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath makes for an elegant appetizer, but you can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or soup for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of sparkling cider or wine for a festive touch. For added flair, sprinkle some extra rosemary on the serving platter for a beautiful presentation!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, until warmed through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Thawing: Make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling it out.
- Cheese Alternatives: You could swap out the brie for other soft cheeses like camembert or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Get creative by adding fresh herbs like thyme or sage for additional depth.
- Presentation: Serving it with a side of fresh fruit can elevate your wreath to a beautiful gourmet level.
Creative Twists
Feel free to customize your wreath based on your preferences! Swap out the cranberry sauce for fig jam for a rich, sweet alternative. For those who love a kick, a bit of jalapeño jelly could add a lovely heat!
