Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath

Name: Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed; 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into small cubes; 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied); 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon water; Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish); Fresh cranberries (for garnish); Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: December 9, 2025

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Introduction to Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath

During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, finding the perfect appetizer can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Enter the Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath, a showstopper that’s as delightful to behold as it is to eat. This festive creation isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a heartfelt solution that makes entertaining easy and impressive. Whether you’re hosting family or welcoming friends, this simple yet elegant dish will have everyone raving. Plus, it takes just a little over an hour to prepare—perfect for a busy mom like me!

Why You’ll Love This Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath

This Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath is the epitome of holiday cheer in an effortless package. It combines rich, creamy Brie with the tangy sweetness of cranberry, elevating your usual appetizer spread. Plus, it’s quick to whip up and requires minimal cleanup. Your family and friends will be impressed, and you’ll love how easily it comes together—leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities!

Ingredients for Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath

Creating a stunning Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath starts with gathering some delightful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering holiday treat:

Puff Pastry: Two sheets serve as the crispy canvas for your creation. Thaw them properly for easy handling.
Brie Cheese: The star of the show! Cut into small cubes, its creamy texture pairs beautifully with the tart cranberry.
Cranberry Sauce: Choose between whole berry or jellied; both add a lovely sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the Brie.
Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: These crunchy nuts provide a delightful contrast in texture. Feel free to swap for almonds or pistachios if you prefer.
Fresh Rosemary: Finely chopped; its aromatic flavor elevates the wreath’s taste profile. You can experiment with thyme or sage, too.
Egg: A beaten egg mixes with water for an egg wash, giving your wreath a gorgeous golden gloss.
Water: Just a tablespoon to achieve that perfect egg wash consistency.
Fresh Rosemary Sprigs: For those festive garnishes that not only beautify but also add a touch of flavor.
Fresh Cranberries: These tiny jewels add color and a burst of tartness; they’re perfect for dressing up the platter.
Powdered Sugar: An optional sprinkle for a touch of sweetness and whimsy if you’re feeling fancy!

For exact quantities, you can find them at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Now that we have our ingredients set, let’s move on to the fun part: making this delicious wreath!

How to Make Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath

Now, let’s dive into the fun part of making this delightful Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath. I promise, it’s simpler than it looks! Follow these steps, and soon your home will be filled with a charming aroma that captures the essence of the holidays.

Step 1 – Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown finish.

While that’s heating up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with cleanup later and ensures the wreath doesn’t stick. Trust me, nobody wants a broken wreath!

Step 2 – Create the Wreath Shape

Next, take a small oven-safe bowl (about 4 inches in diameter) and place it in the center of your prepared baking sheet.

This bowl will guide you in shaping the wreath. Now, roll out your puff pastry sheets a little, just to smooth them out.

Cut each sheet into 8 triangular strips, giving you a total of 16 triangles. Position them around the bowl in a glowing sunburst pattern, with the wide ends overlapping at the center—let your creativity flow here!

Step 3 – Add Fillings

Time to bring flavor to your wreath! Starting from the wide end of each triangle, place small cubes of Brie cheese. Make sure to use enough so every bite is rich and creamy!

Top each cube with a spoonful of cranberry sauce. It adds an enticing sweetness! Now, sprinkle the chopped pecans and fresh rosemary over each triangle. These will complement the cheesiness perfectly.

Step 4 – Assemble the Wreath

Fold the pointed ends of the triangles over the filling, tucking them underneath the wide end in the center. This creates a charming wreath shape.

As you tuck, make sure everything stays snug and secure! Once you’ve done this for all the triangles, remove the bowl from the center, and you’ll see your festive wreath forming.

Step 5 – Apply Egg Wash and Bake

Now for that beautiful shine! In a small bowl, mix your beaten egg with a tablespoon of water to create the egg wash. Brush this mixture generously all over the wreath. It helps give the pastry a gorgeous golden finish.

Pop your creation into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want it flaky and golden, but not burnt.

Step 6 – Cool and Garnish

When your wreath comes out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This is key for letting the cheese set a bit.

Finally, it’s time to dress it up! Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries for that festive flair. If you want to make it a bit sweeter, a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a whimsical touch!

Now, you’re ready to serve it warm with extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping. Your guests will be delighted!

Tips for Success

Thaw puff pastry overnight in the fridge for best results.
Use a sharp knife to cut the pastry for clean edges.
Don’t skip the egg wash; it gives that beautiful sheen!
Experiment with different toppings like dried fruits or assorted cheeses.
Feel free to make the wreath ahead of time; just pop it in the oven before serving.

Equipment Needed

Baking Sheet: A large one, but a smaller one will work in a pinch.
Parchment Paper: Essential for preventing sticking. You can use silicone baking mats as an alternative.
Oven-Safe Bowl: A 4-inch bowl guides your wreath shape, though any small heat-safe dish will do.
Rolling Pin: Handy for smoothing out puff pastry; a wine bottle can serve in a crunch!
Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash, but a spoon can work for that shiny finish.

Variations

Herb Infusion: Swap out rosemary for thyme or chives for a lovely twist on flavor.
Cheese Choices: Substitute Brie with goat cheese or a sharp cheddar for a different taste profile.
Nut Alternatives: Use sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds to cater to nut allergies or preferences.
Sweetness Level: For a sweeter treat, mix in some dark chocolate pieces alongside the cranberries.
Vegan Option: Use vegan cheese and a plant-based egg wash to create a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions

Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine or sparkling cider complements the richness of the wreath.
Side Dishes: Serve with a light salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance flavors.
Presentation: Arrange on a festive platter, surrounded by fresh herbs and extra cranberries.
Dipping Sauce: Offer additional cranberry sauce or a sweet jalapeño dip for a fun twist.
Cheese Board: Place alongside assorted cheeses, crackers, and olives for a complete spread.

FAQs about Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath

As we delve into the tasty world of the Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath, I know questions might pop up. Here are some frequently asked questions that may help clarify things for you!

Can I make the wreath ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the wreath a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. When it’s time to bake, just pop it in the oven for that fresh-from-the-oven taste!

What other toppings work well?

Great question! You can experiment by adding dried fruits, different nuts, or even a drizzle of honey for sweetness. This wreath is very versatile!

Is the wreath vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, indeed! With rich Brie cheese and no meat involved, this festive treat is perfect for vegetarians. Just double-check that your pastry is made without animal fats if you’re looking for pure veggie goodness.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover wreath in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese again before serving.

Can I freeze the wreath?

I wouldn’t recommend freezing it once it’s baked, but you can freeze the assembled, unbaked wreath. Just thaw and bake it directly—easy peasy!

Final Thoughts

Making the Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath is not only a culinary delight, but it’s also a joyous activity that brings family and friends together. The combination of creamy cheese and zesty cranberry makes every bite feel like a holiday hug. As the wreath bakes, the warm, inviting aromas fill your home, creating an atmosphere of love and togetherness that’s hard to replicate. Serving this gorgeous dish at your holiday gatherings ensures you’ll leave lasting impressions—both on your plate and in the hearts of those you cherish. So, roll up your sleeves and let the festive fun begin!