This tasty treat features creamy Brie cheese, sweet tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. It’s perfect for sharing at parties or cozy nights in!
Whenever I make this, I can hardly wait for it to come out of the oven. The smell alone drives everyone wild! Plus, it’s so easy to make—I just roll it up and bake. Yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the superstar that provides the flaky, buttery outer layer. If you can’t find puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough as a substitute, but the texture will be more bread-like.
Brie Cheese: Brie is creamy and melts beautifully. If you want to mix it up, Camembert is a great alternative. For a stronger flavor, goat cheese can also work, though it won’t be quite as creamy.
Dried Cranberries: They add sweetness and a touch of tartness. If you’re looking for something different, you might try dried cherries or raisins instead.
Pecans: Nuts add crunch and flavor. Walnuts or almonds can be substituted if you’re out of pecans, but toasting them brings out the best flavor for any option.
Fresh Herbs: Adding rosemary or thyme really enhances the flavor. If you’d rather not include them, feel free to use a pinch of dried herbs instead, but fresh is always best!
How Do I Perfectly Wrap My Brie in Puff Pastry?
Wrapping your Brie in puff pastry might seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll do it like a pro!
- Roll the pastry to about a 10-inch square to ensure it covers the cheese completely.
- Place the Brie in the center, then spoon on your filling mixture.
- Fold each corner of the pastry over the Brie, pulling it taut and overlapping slightly to keep everything inside.
- Make sure to seal it well to prevent any leaks during baking—pinch the seams closed!
- Don’t forget the egg wash for that golden brown finish. Brush evenly across the outside.
With these tips, your wrapped Brie will bake beautifully, resulting in a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table or gathering!
Cranberry Pecan Brie Wrapped In Puff Pastry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 oz)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped and toasted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
- Crackers, fresh cranberries, and fresh fruit (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to bake. So, you can have this warm, scrumptious appetizer ready in about 40 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the chopped dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and brown sugar. This combination will provide a sweet and nutty contrast to the creamy Brie.
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, take your thawed puff pastry sheet and roll it out into a rough 10-inch square. This will give you enough space to wrap the Brie completely.
4. Assemble the Brie:
Place the Brie wheel in the center of the rolled-out pastry. Spoon your delicious cranberry and pecan mixture over the top, spreading it gently to cover the cheese.
5. Wrap the Brie:
Now comes the fun part! Fold the corners of the puff pastry up over the Brie, overlapping them slightly as you go. Make sure to seal the edges well to keep the cheese and filling inside during baking.
6. Add the Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, beat the egg to create your egg wash. Brush this mixture all over the outside of the wrapped Brie. It’ll give the pastry a lovely golden crust as it bakes.
7. Bake the Brie:
Carefully transfer the wrapped Brie to your baking sheet. Pop it in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up beautifully.
8. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove your creation from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This cooling period helps the cheese set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the warm Brie to a wooden board or platter. Serve with an array of crackers, fresh cranberries, sliced apples or pears, and perhaps a few sprigs of herbs for garnish.
And there you have it! A stunning pie that’s sure to impress. Your guests will love dipping into the gooey, melted Brie surrounded by sweet and nutty flavors. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cheese Instead of Brie?
Absolutely! While Brie is ideal for its creamy texture, you can use Camembert for a similar flavor, or even goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Puff Pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry on hand, crescent roll dough or phyllo pastry can work as alternatives. Crescent dough will give a softer texture, while phyllo will be crispier. Just be sure to layer phyllo sheets with melted butter for the best results!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to warm through without compromising the texture of the pastry.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the wrapped Brie a few hours in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it! Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking for even cooking.
