Save to Pinterest A festive, elegantly wrapped brie cheese, baked in golden puff pastry shaped like a pine tree, filled with cranberry sauce and toasted pecans—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe was a showstopper at our holiday party, impressing both family and friends with its beautiful appearance and rich flavors.
Ingredients
- Dairy: 1 whole wheel of brie cheese (approx. 8 oz / 225 g)
- Pastry: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- Filling: 3 tablespoons cranberry sauce (whole berry or jam)
- Filling: 2 tablespoons toasted pecans, roughly chopped
- Topping: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Topping: 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
- Topping: 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. With a sharp knife, cut out a large triangle (pine tree shape) big enough to completely cover the brie wheel, and set aside the scraps.
- Step 3:
- Place the brie in the center of the pastry. Spread cranberry sauce on top of the brie and sprinkle with toasted pecans.
- Step 4:
- Fold the pastry over the brie, shaping it into a pine tree. Use the pastry scraps to cut out small triangles or strips to create branches and decorate the tree as desired.
- Step 5:
- Carefully transfer the wrapped brie to the prepared baking sheet. Brush all over with beaten egg.
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle with chopped rosemary if using, and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and crisp.
- Step 7:
- Cool for 10 minutes. Optionally, drizzle with honey before serving.
- Step 8:
- Serve warm with crackers, apple slices, or fresh bread.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has become a family tradition, creating joyful moments around the holiday table each year.
Notes
Serve with sparkling wine or a dry white wine for a festive pairing.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, sharp knife, and pastry brush are needed to prepare this dish successfully.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 230, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 17 g, Protein 7 g.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this festive appetizer as the centerpiece of your holiday celebration for a delightful treat.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese is used in this dish?
A whole wheel of creamy brie cheese forms the centerpiece, offering a rich and smooth texture after baking.
- → Can I substitute the cranberry sauce filling?
Yes, fig or apricot preserves provide a delightful alternative for a different fruity note.
- → How do I ensure the pastry stays crisp?
Use puff pastry that is well chilled and bake at a high temperature until the pastry turns golden and flaky.
- → Are toasted pecans necessary?
They add a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor, but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
Serve warm alongside crackers, apple slices, or fresh bread for a balanced presentation.
- → How long does preparation and baking take?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes, with baking adding another 25 minutes, totaling approximately 45 minutes.