When it comes to holiday gatherings, the Cranberry Brie Crescent Wreath is a showstopper that effortlessly elevates your appetizer game. This cheesy, flaky creation is perfect for those cozy family get-togethers or festive soirées, bringing together the rich flavors of creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and the crunch of pistachios—all encased in buttery crescent dough. My first experience making this wreath was a delightful mess of flavors and textures, and it has since become a staple at every holiday party I host.
Why you’ll love this dish
This dish is incredibly versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. Its presentation is simply stunning; the wreath shape draws everyone’s attention, making it an enticing centerpiece on your buffet table. Plus, it’s effortless to prepare—perfect for those of us who want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. The combination of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors makes it a unique dish that complements many other holiday favorites. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a part of your main spread, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
“This wreath was a hit at our Christmas party! I couldn’t believe how easy it was to put together and how delicious it turned out!” – A satisfied guest.
Step-by-step overview
Making a Cranberry Brie Crescent Wreath is as fun as it is easy. Get ready to embrace the aroma of baking dough and melting cheese as we dive into this delightful recipe. You’ll need just a few ingredients and some simple steps to create an elegant dish that looks gourmet but is actually quite approachable!
What you’ll need
Gather these items for your Cranberry Brie Crescent Wreath:
- 1 can of crescent roll dough
- 8 oz brie cheese
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup pistachios (chopped)
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or use homemade cranberry sauce if you’re feeling adventurous!
Directions to follow
Let’s get to the fun part! Follow these straightforward steps to make your wreath:
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the crescent roll package.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and arrange the triangles in a circular shape on a baking sheet, ensuring the edges overlap slightly.
- Place the brie in the center of the dough and layer the cranberry sauce on top of it.
- Carefully fold the tips of the dough triangles over the brie and cranberry, forming a beautiful wreath shape.
- Sprinkle the chopped pistachios and fresh rosemary over the top for added flavor and color.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and puffed.
- Let it cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve your Cranberry Brie Crescent Wreath, consider displaying it on a festive platter decorated with additional rosemary sprigs or cranberries for a pop of color. This dish pairs divinely with a glass of sparkling wine or a cozy hot apple cider. If you want to keep it simple, serve it with some crostini or crackers for additional crunch!
How to store
To keep your wreath fresh after the festivities, it’s best to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain that wonderfully flaky texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the wreath before baking; just wrap it tightly and place it in the freezer, then bake directly from frozen when you’re ready to serve.
Helpful cooking tips
- For the best flavor, let your brie sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking; this will help it melt beautifully.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought cranberry sauce, but consider making your own for a more intense flavor.
- Pair it with a honey drizzle or your favorite jam for extra sweetness!
Creative twists
Want to mix things up? Here are some variations to try with your wreath:
- Swap the cranberry sauce for a fig jam for a more savory approach.
- Use different cheeses, like goat cheese or cheddar, for unique flavor profiles.
- Add some cooked bacon bits for a smoky touch or incorporate chopped herbs like thyme or sage.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for the wreath?
Prep time is around 10-15 minutes, making this a quick option for gatherings!
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Creamy goat cheese or a sharper cheddar would work wonderfully.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover wreath can be kept in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Just be mindful of any added ingredients for specific dietary restrictions.
Cranberry Brie Crescent Wreath
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A stunning appetizer featuring creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and crunchy pistachios encased in flaky crescent dough.
Ingredients
- 1 can of crescent roll dough
- 8 oz brie cheese
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup pistachios (chopped)
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the crescent roll package.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and arrange the triangles in a circular shape on a baking sheet, ensuring the edges overlap slightly.
- Place the brie in the center of the dough and layer the cranberry sauce on top of it.
- Carefully fold the tips of the dough triangles over the brie and cranberry, forming a beautiful wreath shape.
- Sprinkle the chopped pistachios and fresh rosemary over the top for added flavor and color.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and puffed.
- Let it cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
For the best flavor, let your brie sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. Serve on a festive platter and consider pairing with sparkling wine or hot apple cider.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American