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Nothing says holiday spirit quite like this gorgeous brie cheese and cranberry Christmas wreath. This showstopping appetizer is not only simple to prepare but feels so festive and impressive on any table. I love how it brings everyone together to pull off cheesy bites while the rosemary warms the whole kitchen with a wintery scent.
I was amazed by how quickly this became my new go-to for holiday parties. The ruby red cranberries make every bite feel a bit magical and everyone always asks for the recipe.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Puff pastry sheets: thawed so you get a flaky crust every time
- Brie cheese wedges: look for a ripe but firm wheel for the meltiest result
- Cranberry sauce: whole berry is best for bursts of tart fruitiness and beautiful color
- Egg: ensures the pastry turns golden and shiny
- Fresh rosemary: adds a piney aroma and festive touch, choose sprigs that are bright green and fragrant
How to Make It
- Preheat and Prep:
- Set your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit then line a baking sheet with parchment so nothing sticks
- Shape the Pastry:
- Roll the puff pastry out gently on a floured surface so it does not tear. Then cut the sheet into eight to ten triangles. Try to get them roughly the same size for even baking. Arrange the triangles in a circle on your prepared sheet so the wide ends overlap slightly in the center and the points stick outward making a sunburst
- Layer the Brie and Cranberry:
- Slice your brie into wedges about half an inch thick. Lay the slices on the wide ends of the pastry triangles all the way around. Top with generous spoonfuls of whole berry cranberry sauce so every bite is sweet and tangy
- Seal and Brush:
- Carefully fold the pointed ends of each triangle over the filling and tuck them under the ring forming a wreath. Seal with your fingers so nothing leaks. Beat the egg and brush it evenly over all exposed pastry. Sprinkle chopped fresh rosemary all around for flavor and color
- Bake:
- Slide the wreath into the oven and bake for twenty to twenty five minutes until the pastry is puffed and deep golden. The brie should be melty and gooey inside. If you like extra crispiness give it a couple more minutes but watch closely
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the wreath cool for about five minutes before moving. Slice or tear sections to serve while still warm for best taste
Leftover slices reheat well and taste great the next day. Fresh rosemary is probably my favorite part — every time I bake this wreath, the whole house smells like Christmas morning. It reminds me of my mother who always snipped fresh herbs for special recipes.
Flavor Boosters
Let the brie come to room temperature before assembling for best melting. Cut pastry triangles as evenly as possible for a perfect round wreath. Do not skip the egg wash which creates a glossy bakery finish.
Serving Suggestions
Slice into wedges and set on a wooden board with extra rosemary sprigs for serving. Pair with sparkling wine, mulled cider, or hot tea at holiday brunches. Serve alongside a green salad or roasted nuts for a complete small plate.
Creative Twists
Any soft cheese works—such as camembert or triple cream brie for a richer taste. Switch out the cranberry sauce for fig jam or even apricot preserves for a sweeter tang. For a spring version, add thinly sliced pears or apples with the brie.
This festive wreath never fails to delight at gatherings. Its inviting look and cozy flavors make it a holiday tradition worth repeating.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?
Yes, camembert or a soft triple cream cheese work well as alternatives to brie in this dish.
- → Is store-bought cranberry sauce suitable?
Store-bought cranberry sauce is fine, but whole berry varieties offer more texture and flavor for this wreath.
- → Can I make this wreath ahead?
The wreath can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving for best results. Refrigerate until ready to bake.
- → What herbs can I use instead of rosemary?
Fresh thyme or sage can be used in place of rosemary to complement the cheese and cranberry flavors.
- → What is the best way to serve the wreath?
Serve the wreath warm from the oven. Slice or pull apart the pastry pieces and enjoy as an appetizer or part of a festive spread.