Why Make This Recipe

The Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath is a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Its festive appearance and blend of flavors will impress your friends and family. This dish combines creamy Brie cheese with sweet cranberry sauce and crunchy nuts, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture. It’s not only beautiful but also very easy to make, making it a great choice for holiday parties.

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 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 it underneath the wide end in the center, creating a wreath shape. Remove the bowl from the center.
Mix beaten egg with 1 tablespoon 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

Serve this beautiful wreath warm on a large platter. You can pair it with extra cranberry sauce for dipping. It’s perfect as an appetizer for guests to enjoy while mingling during a holiday party.

How to Store Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath

If you have leftovers, store the wreath in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. To enjoy it warm again, reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its flaky texture.

Tips to Make Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath

Make sure to thaw the puff pastry completely for easier handling.
You can use different types of cheese if desired, such as goat cheese or cheddar.
Be creative with your garnishes; adding some spinach or parsley can enhance the festive look!

Variation

You can add other ingredients like chopped apples or dried fruits for more flavor. Additionally, try using a different type of nut, like almonds or cashews, to switch up the texture.

FAQs

Can I make this wreath ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Just brush the egg wash right before baking.

What if I can’t find puff pastry?
If you can’t find puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough instead. The texture will be different, but it will still taste good!

Can I freeze the wreath?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked wreath. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.