The Easy Cranberry & Brie Wreath is one of those Christmas appetizers that look elegant but take very little effort to make. It’s a warm, flaky, and cheesy pull-apart pastry filled with brie and cranberry sauce perfect for holiday gatherings, Christmas dinners, or even cozy winter parties. Whether you’re searching for Christmas food dinner ideas or a new favorite among Christmas snacks, this wreath brings festive flair to any table.
This recipe beautifully balances creamy brie with tart cranberry sauce, wrapped in buttery puff pastry. It’s easy to prepare, bake, and serve, making it ideal for anyone hosting a Christmas party or looking for holiday appetizers that impress without stress. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll create a dish that feels gourmet and festive at the same time.
Table of Contents
Easy Cranberry & Brie Wreath – A Festive Christmas Appetizer
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 1 wreath (serves 8)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive and easy holiday appetizer featuring creamy brie, tart cranberry sauce, and buttery puff pastry shaped into a golden wreath.
Ingredients
2 puff pastry sheets, thawed
8 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes
½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
2–3 fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out puff pastry and cut a large 10-inch circle.
3. Place a 4-inch bowl in the center and cut 8–10 triangles from the inner circle to the outer edge.
4. Spread cranberry sauce around the ring and top evenly with brie cubes.
5. Sprinkle with chopped nuts if using.
6. Fold each inner triangle over the filling and tuck under the outer edge to form a wreath.
7. Brush with beaten egg and bake 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
8. Cool slightly, transfer to platter, garnish with rosemary, and serve warm.
Notes
Serve warm with extra cranberry sauce for dipping. Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
You can assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
Perfect for Christmas appetizers or holiday gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Christmas appetizer at home:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puff pastry sheets, thawed | 2 sheets |
| Brie cheese, cut into small cubes | 8 oz |
| Cranberry sauce (homemade or canned) | ½ cup |
| Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional for garnish) | 2–3 sprigs |
| Egg (for egg wash) | 1, beaten |
| Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) | 2 tbsp |
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare puff pastry: Lay out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Use a plate or bowl to trace a large circle (about 10 inches in diameter).
- Cut inner circle: Place a smaller bowl (about 4 inches in diameter) in the center of the circle and gently trace a smaller inner circle. Using a sharp knife, cut 8–10 triangles radiating from the inner circle, like spokes of a wheel.
- Add filling: Spread cranberry sauce around the ring between the two circles. Place brie cubes evenly on top of the cranberry layer. Sprinkle nuts if using.
- Fold and shape: Gently lift each triangle from the inner circle and fold it over the filling, tucking it under the outer edge to create a wreath shape.
- Brush and bake: Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
- Cool slightly: Allow the wreath to cool for 5–10 minutes before transferring it to a serving platter.
- Garnish and serve: Decorate with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve warm with extra cranberry sauce on the side.
Helpful Tips
Keep the brie cold: Cold brie is easier to cube and less messy to handle.
- Try variations: Add caramelized onions, bacon bits, or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
- Make ahead: Assemble the wreath earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Serving suggestion: Serve this dish as a centerpiece appetizer surrounded by small plates and bread slices.
Conclusion
The Easy Cranberry & Brie Wreath is more than just a Christmas appetizer it’s a showstopping centerpiece that captures the warmth and joy of the season. Combining buttery pastry, creamy cheese, and tart cranberries, it’s the perfect holiday snack for gatherings big or small. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a Christmas party, this easy yet elegant dish will bring cheer to every bite.
FAQs About Cranberry & Brie Wreath
What makes this Easy Cranberry & Brie Wreath a great Christmas appetizer?
It’s festive, simple to prepare, and full of classic holiday flavors. The wreath shape looks stunning on a holiday table, making it one of the best Christmas party food ideas.
Can I use another cheese instead of brie?
Yes. Camembert or even cream cheese can be used, but brie gives the best texture and creamy flavor balance with the cranberry sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes before serving.
Can I make this for Thanksgiving too?
Absolutely. It fits beautifully into any holiday appetizers lineup, from Thanksgiving to Christmas dinner or New Year’s Eve gatherings.