Warm Cranberry Brie en Croute

Delight your guests with this festive and flavorful appetizer that combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries, the creaminess of brie cheese, and the warmth of a flaky pastry. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this Warm Cranberry Brie en Croute will transport you to a cozy winter evening filled with laughter and joy.

Time: Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 25-30 minutes Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Servings: 10

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Allergens

Wheat, Dairy, Eggs

Ingredients

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 round Brie cheese (8 oz)
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons orange zest
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 5 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and let cool.
Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Place the round Brie cheese in the center of the pastry, leaving a small border around the edge.
Spoon the cooled cranberry mixture over the Brie, covering it completely.
Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to help it seal. Gently fold the sides of the pastry over the Brie, enclosing it completely. Press the seams together to seal, then trim any excess dough.
Carefully transfer the wrapped Brie to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the entire surface of the pastry with the beaten egg, then sprinkle with a little extra sugar for added sparkle and crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffy. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before serving.

Chef’s Insight

You can make the cranberry sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently in a saucepan before using. This allows you to spend more time on other dishes while still serving this delicious appetizer.

Notes

This recipe is perfect for entertaining, as it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before guests arrive.
Feel free to customize the cranberry sauce with different spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to match your personal taste preferences or complement other dishes on your menu.

Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free puff pastry.
To make it dairy-free, replace the Brie with a dairy-free cheese alternative or a block of firm silken tofu.

Alternative Preparations

This recipe can also be prepared using a 4 oz wedge of Brie instead of a round cheese. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Alternative Methods

For a more rustic approach, wrap the Brie in phyllo dough instead of puff pastry and bake until golden brown.

Best Storage Practice

Store leftover cranberry mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Shelf Life

The Warm Cranberry Brie en Croute is best served immediately after baking, while still warm and gooey. However, it can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours.

Plating Tips

Serve the Warm Cranberry Brie en Croute on a round serving plate, surrounded by fresh cranberries or whole orange slices for an extra festive touch. Provide small bread or crackers for guests to enjoy with their appetizer.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (based on 10 servings): Calories: 250 kcal, Fat: 19g, Protein: 6g, Carbohydrates: 18g, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 7g, Sodium: 320mg