Cranberry Pecan Stuffed Brie with Puff Pastry Recipe

Introduction

Looking for a show-stopping appetizer to delight your guests this holiday season? This Cranberry Pecan Stuffed Brie with Puff Pastry is a delicious blend of creamy Brie cheese, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and honey, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. This dish adds a touch of elegance to any table, making it a must-have for festive gatherings.

Key Ingredients

  • Brie Cheese Wheel (8-12 oz): The star of the show, Brie offers a creamy, rich base that melts beautifully.
  • Puff Pastry: Provides a crispy, golden-brown shell to encase the Brie and its fillings.
  • Dried Cranberries (¼ cup): Adds a pop of tart sweetness that balances the richness of the Brie.
  • Chopped Pecans (¼ cup): Brings a nutty crunch and extra flavor.
  • Honey (2 tablespoons): Adds a touch of sweetness and helps meld the flavors together.
  • Optional: Fresh Rosemary (1 teaspoon, chopped): A fragrant herb that adds depth to the flavor profile.
  • Egg (1, beaten): Used as an egg wash for a golden finish.
  • Crackers or Sliced Baguette: Perfect for serving with the baked Brie.

Equipment Needed

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Small Mixing Bowl
  • Pastry Brush

Preparation Steps

Thawing the Puff Pastry: For best results, allow your puff pastry to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This ensures it is pliable without becoming too soft.

Preparing the Brie: If your Brie cheese has a tough rind, you can gently trim it off. However, leaving it on is perfectly fine as it melts beautifully.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Assemble the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, honey, and rosemary (if using). Mix until the ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 3: Wrap the Brie

  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to approximately 12×14 inches.
  • Place the Brie slightly off-center on the rolled pastry.
  • Spoon the cranberry-pecan mixture evenly over the top of the Brie.
  • Fold one side of the puff pastry over the Brie, then tuck in the edges, creating a neat package.

Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash
Using a pastry brush, coat the entire surface of the puff pastry with beaten egg. This gives the pastry a golden, shiny crust when baked.

Step 5: Bake
Carefully place the wrapped Brie on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the puff pastry turns a deep golden brown and becomes crispy.

Step 6: Serve
Allow the baked Brie to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This prevents the cheese from running too much and ensures easy serving. Serve warm with crackers or sliced baguette.

Tips for Best Results

  • Choosing the Right Brie: Select a mild, creamy Brie for a balanced flavor profile.
  • Preventing Soggy Puff Pastry: Ensure the filling is evenly distributed and not overly wet. Too much honey or excess moisture can make the pastry soggy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overstuffing: Too much filling can lead to leaks during baking.
  • Skipping the Egg Wash: This step ensures a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cranberry Pecan Stuffed Brie with crackers, sliced baguette, or even apple slices for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

FAQs about Cranberry Pecan Stuffed Brie with Puff Pastry

  1. What type of Brie works best for this recipe?
    A creamy, mild Brie is ideal. Avoid Brie that is too firm or too ripe for best results.
  2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes, you can assemble the Brie and refrigerate it (wrapped in plastic) until ready to bake.
  3. Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
    Yes, but phyllo dough results in a lighter, crispier texture.
  4. How do I reheat leftover stuffed Brie?
    Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
  5. Is there a dairy-free alternative?
    Consider using a dairy-free cheese wheel and a vegan puff pastry.
  6. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
    Fresh cranberries can be used but may require extra sweetening to balance their tartness.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store leftover Brie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place it in a 350°F oven until warm and gooey.

Why You Should Try This Recipe for Your Next Gathering

The blend of flavors and textures in this Cranberry Pecan Stuffed Brie creates a memorable dish that is both elegant and delicious. Perfect for holidays and special occasions, it’s guaranteed to impress your guests.

Cranberry Pecan Stuffed Brie with Puff Pastry

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Brie cheese wheel 8-12 oz
  • 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary chopped (optional)
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
  • Crackers or sliced baguette for serving

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 12×14 inches.
  • Step 2: Assemble the Filling
  • In a small bowl, mix the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, honey, and rosemary (if using).
  • Step 3: Wrap the Brie
  • Place the Brie slightly off-center on the rolled-out puff pastry.
  • Spoon the cranberry-pecan mixture on top of the Brie.
  • Fold the longer side of the pastry over the Brie, then fold in the shorter edges to fully enclose the Brie, creating a neat package.
  • Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash
  • Brush the entire surface of the puff pastry with the beaten egg to ensure a golden, shiny finish.
  • Step 5: Bake
  • Place the wrapped Brie on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy.
  • Step 6: Serve
  • Let the baked Brie cool for a few minutes before slicing.
  • Serve warm with crackers or sliced baguette for dipping.