Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Wreath

This cranberry brie puff pastry wreath has become my signature holiday appetizer, transforming simple ingredients into an impressive centerpiece that disappears within minutes at every gathering. The combination of flaky pastry, creamy cheese, and tart cranberries creates an irresistible flavor profile that perfectly captures the festive season.

I first created this wreath when hosting my first Christmas as a newlywed, nervous about impressing my in-laws. The dramatic "ooohs" when I brought it to the table instantly calmed my nerves, and now it's requested at every holiday gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: Look for all butter varieties for the richest flavor and flakiest texture
• 1 small wheel brie (8 oz), chilled: The cold temperature makes it easier to slice cleanly without making a gooey mess
• 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce: The texture of whole berries creates pockets of tart sweetness and prevents excessive leaking
• 1 egg, beaten: Creates that gorgeous golden shine that makes the wreath look professionally baked
• 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or pistachios: Adds delightful crunch and nutty depth that balances the creamy cheese
• 1 teaspoon orange zest: The citrus oils wake up all the flavors and cut through the richness
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced: Provides an aromatic evergreen note that makes this truly festive
• Honey for drizzling: The floral sweetness ties everything together when served warm
• Crackers or sliced baguette: Essential for serving alongside for those who want extra vehicles for the melty cheese

Instructions

Prepare Your Workspace:

Begin by heating your oven to 400°F and lining a large sheet pan with parchment paper. Allow your puff pastry to thaw according to package directions until pliable but still cold. Keep the brie in the refrigerator until the last possible moment for easier handling.

Create Your Pastry Base:

Roll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a 10x12 inch rectangle, keeping the edges as straight as possible. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 12 equal strips lengthwise. Each strip should be approximately 1 inch wide and 10 inches long.

Prepare The Filling:

Remove the brie from the refrigerator and slice into small wedges about 1/4 inch thick. Working quickly, spread a thin line of cranberry sauce down the center of each pastry strip, leaving about 1/4 inch border on all sides. Place a few pieces of brie on top of the cranberry sauce, then sprinkle with a pinch of orange zest and chopped nuts.

Form The Coils:

Carefully roll each filled strip into a coil, starting from one end and working to the other, keeping the filling tucked inside as you roll. The pastry should wrap around itself creating a spiral effect. Place each completed coil seam side down onto your parchment lined baking sheet, arranging them to form a circular wreath shape with the coils touching each other.

Finish And Bake:

Gently brush the entire surface of the pastry with beaten egg wash, making sure to cover all exposed pastry for an even golden finish. Sprinkle the minced rosemary over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the pastry is deeply golden brown and fully puffed.

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The first time I served this wreath, my grandmother who rarely gives cooking compliments asked for the recipe. The secret is in the balance of textures. The flaky exterior gives way to creamy brie and that pop of cranberry creates a perfect bite every time. I now make two each Christmas Eve one with cranberry and one with fig preserves to satisfy everyone.

Make Ahead Tips

This wreath can be prepared in stages to make entertaining easier. You can thaw the puff pastry overnight in the refrigerator, and even cut the strips a day ahead, keeping them separated with parchment paper and well wrapped. The entire wreath can be assembled, covered with plastic wrap, and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to brush with egg wash right before it goes into the oven, not ahead of time.

Flavor Variations

While cranberry and brie create a classic holiday pairing, this versatile recipe welcomes creative adaptations. Try fig preserves with gorgonzola and walnuts for a more complex flavor profile. Apple butter with sharp cheddar and thyme makes a wonderful autumn version. For something unexpected, try raspberry jam with dark chocolate pieces and a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet take on the wreath concept.

Serving Suggestions

Present this wreath on a large wooden board surrounded by additional crackers, sliced apples, and extra honey for drizzling. Place small cheese knives or cocktail forks nearby for easy serving. For an elevated holiday experience, pair with prosecco or a light pinot noir that won't overpower the delicate flavors. The wreath is best enjoyed warm when the cheese is still molten, but remains delicious at room temperature.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pastry leaks during baking, don't worry. This happens when the filling is too warm or there's too much cranberry sauce. Next time, use less filling and make sure your brie is very cold. If the wreath browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the remaining bake time. And if some sections puff more than others, that's part of the rustic charm that makes this appetizer so appealing.

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This wreath is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and creamy. It's the perfect centerpiece for any festive occasion.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the brie from oozing too much during baking?

Keep the brie well-chilled before slicing and assembling, which helps it hold shape during baking and reduces oozing.

→ Can I make this wreath ahead of time?

You can assemble the pastry coils and refrigerate them several hours ahead. Bake just before serving for best texture.

→ What nuts can I use for topping?

Chopped pecans or pistachios both add delicious crunch and flavor contrast to the wreath. Choose your favorite.

→ Is it possible to use other jams instead of cranberry sauce?

Yes, substitute with fig, apricot, or raspberry preserves for a different flavor if desired.

→ How should the wreath be served?

Serve the warm wreath with honey drizzled on top and accompany with crackers or baguette slices for easy sharing.

→ Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade whole-berry cranberry sauce adds a fresh touch and can be made in advance.