Description
A delightful appetizer featuring creamy Brie cheese topped with tangy cranberry sauce and crunchy pecans, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
For Brushing
- 1 egg, beaten
For Preparation
- All-purpose flour, for dusting
For Serving
- Crackers or sliced baguette
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Lightly dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking. Roll out the puff pastry sheet into a square approximately 1/8 inch thick to create a uniform layer for wrapping.
- Assemble Filling: Place the entire wheel of Brie in the center of the pastry square. Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the top of the Brie, then sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cranberry layer for added texture and flavor.
- Wrap Brie: Fold the corners of the puff pastry up over the Brie wheel, bringing all edges to the center and gently pressing to seal the package securely, ensuring no filling leaks during baking.
- Position Wrapped Brie: Carefully flip the wrapped Brie onto the prepared baking sheet seam-side down to prevent it from unfolding while baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the beaten egg over the entire surface of the puff pastry. This helps the pastry develop a golden, glossy finish as it bakes.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown, indicating it is fully cooked and crispy.
- Cool: Remove the Brie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes. This rest time helps the cheese set slightly for easier slicing and safer serving.
- Serve: Transfer the baked Brie to a serving platter and serve warm with crackers or sliced baguette for dipping and spreading.
Notes
- Let the Brie cool slightly before cutting to avoid hot, melted cheese spilling out.
- Use fresh puff pastry for best results; make sure it is well-thawed but still cold for easier handling.
- Homemade cranberry sauce adds a fresh flavor but store-bought works well for convenience.
- Optional additions include fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra aroma.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle additional chopped pecans or a drizzle of honey over the top just before serving.
