This tasty treat features creamy brie cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, all snugly wrapped in flaky puff pastry. It’s a perfect mix of flavors and textures!
Whenever I serve this, it disappears fast! It’s so easy to make and impresses everyone. Plus, the gooey cheese is just a warm hug for your taste buds. Who can resist? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry is a delightful base for our brie. If you’re short on time, you can use a ready-made pastry. Alternatives like phyllo dough can work too, but the texture will be different and might be a bit more fragile.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creamy richness and melts beautifully. If you’re looking for a strong flavor, try camembert instead. For a lighter option, goat cheese is a tasty substitute but won’t be as melty.
Dried Cranberries: These add a nice tart flavor. Feel free to swap them with dried cherries or apricots for a different twist. If you prefer fresh fruit, use fresh cranberries, but remember they can be quite tart!
Pecans: These nuts bring a lovely crunch. Walnuts or almonds are great substitutions if you’re out of pecans or have allergies. You can toast them lightly for more flavor!
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Wrapped Puff Pastry?
Wrapping brie in puff pastry can be a little tricky, but here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Flour your surface well before rolling the pastry to prevent sticking.
- Center the brie on the pastry and fold the pastry over it in a gentle pleating manner, ensuring no gaps.
- Seal edges by pinching the pastry together. This keeps the melted cheese from leaking out.
- Brush the outside with the egg wash for a golden color. Don’t skip this step!
Take your time with these steps to ensure that your pastry bakes evenly, and you’ll have a beautiful appetizer to impress!
Cranberry Pecan Brie Wrapped In Puff Pastry
Ingredients You’ve Got to Gather:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those holiday gatherings or cozy get-togethers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep our pastry from sticking.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, toss together the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, honey, and chopped rosemary. Give it a good stir until everything is mixed. This mix will add sweet, nutty goodness to our brie.
3. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Now, on a lightly floured surface, carefully unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet. Place the round brie cheese in the center—this will be the star of our dish!
4. Assemble the Cheese:
Spoon that delicious cranberry-pecan mixture over the top of the brie. Spread it out so every bite will have some of that yummy filling.
5. Wrap It Up:
Gently fold the edges of the puff pastry up and over the brie, pleating as you go to secure the cheese and filling inside. Ensure it’s sealed tightly, or you might have a messy leak! Turn the wrapped brie seam-side down onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush with Egg Wash:
Using your beaten egg, brush the entire surface of the pastry. This will give it that beautiful golden color when it bakes. Don’t skimp on this step—it makes a big difference!
7. Bake It:
Pop your baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on it; you want it perfectly baked!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the cheese set a bit. Then, carefully transfer it onto a serving plate. Garnish with fresh cranberries and sprigs of rosemary for a festive touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm brie with your favorite crackers. Get ready for everyone to rave about this delicious treat. Enjoy every gooey, sweet, and nutty bite!
Can I Use a Different Cheese Instead of Brie?
Absolutely! While brie is ideal for its creamy texture, camembert or goat cheese are excellent alternatives. Just keep in mind that each cheese will bring a slightly different flavor profile!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the wrapped brie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may result in a soggy pastry.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the wrapped brie a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge!
What Else Can I Add to the Filling?
Feel free to get creative! You can add chopped apples, caramelized onions, or even some crispy bacon for a savory twist. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey to suit your taste!
