Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath Recipe
The Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath is a festive, elegant appetizer featuring buttery puff pastry wrapped around creamy brie cheese and sweet-tart cranberry sauce, enhanced with fresh rosemary and a golden egg wash. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it offers a beautiful presentation and delightful flavor combination that captures the essence of the season.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Main Ingredients
- 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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry into a large square on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into 8 to 10 triangular segments.
- Arrange Pastry Triangles: Place the triangles in a circular pattern on the prepared baking sheet, with the pointed ends facing outward to mimic a wreath shape.
- Layer Filling: Around the inner ring of the circle, layer the brie cheese wedges evenly. Spoon the cranberry sauce over and around the brie, distributing it generously for flavor contrast.
- Fold Pastry Tips: Carefully fold the pointed tips of each pastry triangle over the brie and cranberry filling, tucking them under the inner edge to securely enclose the filling and form a wreath shape.
- Apply Egg Wash and Rosemary: Beat the egg and use a pastry brush to coat the entire pastry wreath. This creates a beautiful golden finish when baked. Sprinkle the chopped fresh rosemary over the top for aroma and visual appeal.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the wreath warm to enjoy the melty brie and the combination of flavors at their best.
Notes
- Optional additions include chopped pecans or pistachios inside the wreath for added crunch.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze after baking for a tangy contrast.
- You can create mini wreaths using muffin tins for smaller portions, ideal for cocktail parties.
- Store leftovers wrapped in foil or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For dietary variations, try swapping brie with goat cheese or camembert.
Keywords: Brie cheese, cranberry sauce, Christmas wreath, holiday appetizer, puff pastry, rosemary, festive recipe