This warm and melty cranberry pecan brie wrapped in flaky puff pastry is a festive treat! It has the perfect mix of sweet and nutty flavors that everyone loves.
You’ll want to keep this easy recipe handy for parties because it always impresses guests. I can’t resist sneaking some before it even hits the table! 😋
Just roll out the pastry, pop in the brie with cranberries and pecans, wrap it up, and bake. It’s quick to make and tastes amazing with some crunchy crackers!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: Use a high-quality frozen puff pastry, as it’s key to achieving a flaky texture. If you can’t find puff pastry, phyllo dough can work, but you’ll want to layer it a bit thicker to get a good seal.
Brie Cheese: While Brie is a classic choice, Camembert is also an excellent alternative. It has a similar texture and flavor but is a bit softer. Make sure whatever cheese you choose is whole, not sliced.
Dried Cranberries: If fresh cranberries are in season, you can use those, but remember they’re more tart. For a less sweet option, try using chopped dried cherries or raisins instead, which also add a nice flavor.
Pecans: Walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans if you have a nut allergy or simply prefer a different flavor. Toasting the nuts before using them can enhance their taste.
Brown Sugar: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using maple syrup or honey instead. Just be sure to adjust the quantity since both are sweeter than brown sugar!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Wrapped Brie?
Wrapping the brie can be tricky, but a few steps can make it easier. Start by ensuring your puff pastry is chilled but pliable. If it’s too warm, it can be hard to work with.
- Roll the pastry out gently, just enough to comfortably wrap the Brie.
- Place the Brie in the center and layer the cranberries and pecans on top.
- To wrap, fold the pastry over the cheese smoothly, creating pleats as you go for a nice look. This also helps seal in the goodness.
- Don’t forget the egg wash! It gives the finished product that beautiful golden color.
Let the wrapped brie rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to slice into without oozing everywhere!
Cranberry Pecan Brie Wrapped In Puff Pastry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 oz)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh cranberries and pecans for garnish (optional)
- Crackers, for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll spend about 35-40 minutes from start to finish before enjoying this delicious appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the wrapped Brie.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry. You want it to be just big enough to comfortably wrap around the Brie, allowing some overlap at the edges.
3. Assemble the Cheese:
Take your wheel of Brie cheese and place it in the center of the rolled-out puff pastry. It should sit nicely without any trouble.
4. Add the Toppings:
Sprinkle the dried cranberries and chopped pecans evenly over the top of the Brie. To give it a little more sweetness and caramelization during baking, you can also sprinkle some brown sugar over the cranberries and pecans if you like.
5. Wrap It Up:
Gently fold the puff pastry over the Brie. Start at one side and pleat the pastry as you go to ensure it covers the cheese completely and seals the edges well.
6. Add the Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, beat the egg and then brush it generously over the entire wrapped pastry. This will create a beautiful golden color when it bakes!
7. Bake the Brie:
Carefully place the wrapped Brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Then pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
8. Let It Set:
Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the Brie to rest for about 5 minutes. This waiting time will help it firm up slightly, making it easier to serve.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer the beautifully wrapped Brie to a serving board. You can garnish it with fresh cranberries and pecans for a lovely presentation. Serve warm with your favorite crackers, and enjoy the delicious melty center!
This recipe promises a delightful mix of flavors: the creaminess of Brie, sweetness from cranberries, and the crunch of pecans all encased in flaky pastry—perfect for any gathering!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Brie is traditional, you can substitute it with Camembert or even a soft goat cheese for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that every cheese has its own melting point, but they should all work nicely in this recipe.
What Can I Use Instead of Puff Pastry?
If you can’t find puff pastry, phyllo dough is a good alternative. You’ll need to layer several sheets, brushing each with melted butter, to create a thicker wrap. Just remember, phyllo will be crispier compared to the flaky texture of puff pastry.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through to keep the pastry crispy. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the wrapped Brie ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to brush it with egg wash before baking, and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to help it cook evenly.
