Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I settled in for a cozy night with friends, the aroma of melting Brie wafting through the air felt like a warm hug. My Elegant Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry became the star of the evening, effortlessly blending sweet-tart cranberries and crunchy pecans within a golden, flaky shell. This stunning appetizer not only transforms an ordinary gathering into something truly special, but it’s also surprisingly simple to whip up, making it a perfect choice for both intimate dinners and festive celebrations. Trust me; your guests will be wondering how you pulled off such gourmet flavors without spending all day in the kitchen! Are you ready to impress with your next culinary masterpiece? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe! What Makes This Recipe So Irresistible? Elevated Appetizer: This Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience that dazzles at any gathering. Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite nuts or sweeteners, turning this recipe into something uniquely yours. Time-Saving Delight: With pre-rolled puff pastry, assembly is quick and easy, allowing you more time to enjoy the company of your guests. Crowd Favorite: The creamy Brie, crunchy pecans, and juicy cranberries harmonize beautifully, appealing to even the pickiest of eaters. Impressively Simple: Despite its elegant appearance, the steps are straightforward, ensuring you’ll feel confident making this dish for any occasion. Are you curious about other spectacular appetizers? Check out my guaranteed crowd-pleasers that will elevate your entertaining game! Cranberry Pecan Brie Ingredients For the Filling Brie Cheese – Use a whole wheel for that deliciously gooey texture when baked. Cranberries – Fresh cranberries add a punch of tartness, while dried cranberries deliver sweetness. Pecans – Their crunchy nuttiness enhances the dish; feel free to swap with walnuts or almonds. Honey/Maple Syrup (optional) – A drizzle can provide an extra layer of sweetness if desired. Cinnamon (optional) – A pinch adds warmth, elevating the festive feel of this Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry. For the Pastry Puff Pastry – Choose thawed, pre-rolled sheets for a buttery, flaky shell that makes assembly a breeze. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a hot environment, which is crucial for achieving that golden, flaky texture in your puff pastry. While the oven heats, you can gather all your other ingredients and equipment, making your cooking experience seamless. Step 2: Prepare Puff Pastry On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry to flatten it slightly. Then, transfer the pastry onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, creating a base for your Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry. Make sure the puff pastry is large enough to fully wrap around the Brie cheese with ample edges to seal. Step 3: Assemble Filling Place the whole wheel of Brie in the center of the puff pastry. Generously top it with fresh or dried cranberries and chopped pecans. To elevate the flavor, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the toppings and, if desired, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon for added warmth. The combination of these ingredients will bring your appetizer to life. Step 4: Wrap Brie Carefully fold the puff pastry edges over the Brie, ensuring all filling is well-contained. Press and seal the edges tightly to prevent any melting cheese from escaping during baking. You can create decorative slits on top of the pastry using a sharp knife to allow steam to vent and add an aesthetic touch to your Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry. Step 5: Bake Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the pastry as it cooks—you’re seeking a beautiful golden brown color and a puffed-up appearance. The aroma filling your kitchen will signal that your appetizer is close to being ready! Step 6: Serve After baking, let the Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the cheese to set just enough for slicing. Serve with an assortment of crackers or sliced baguette, inviting your guests to enjoy this delightful creation. What to Serve With Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Transform your gathering into a feast with these delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of this elegant appetizer. Crispy Crackers: Their crunchy texture provides a perfect contrast to the creamy Brie, making each bite delightful. Sliced Baguette: Soft, warm bread complements the oozing cheese and adds an inviting element to your spread. Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery greens balance the richness of the Brie, adding freshness and a lovely color contrast. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables offers a satisfying companion, filling out your appetizer table beautifully. Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey on top elevates the sweet-tart flavors of the cranberries, enhancing every bite. Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of bubbly pairs wonderfully, cutting through the richness and enhancing the festive mood. Herbed Cheese Spread: A soft spreadable cheese with herbs complements the Brie, presenting a lovely variety of flavors for guests to enjoy. Dark Chocolate: For dessert, pairing this dish with a piece of dark chocolate continues the sweet-savory theme and provides a decadent finish. Make Ahead Options These Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal prep! You can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, covering it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the pastry from drying out. To maintain the pastry’s flakiness, avoid applying any egg wash until just before baking. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and brush the pastry with the egg wash for a glorious golden finish. Bake as directed, and your elegant appetizer will come out just as delicious as if made fresh on the spot, allowing you to enjoy your gathering without the last-minute rush. Expert Tips for Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Thaw Properly: Ensure your puff pastry is fully thawed before use. This prevents tearing and helps achieve that perfect flaky texture. Egg Wash Shine: For a beautiful golden crust, brush the outer layer of the pastry with an egg wash before baking. Cool Before Slicing: Allow the baked Brie to sit for a few minutes to set properly; this prevents the cheese from oozing out when you cut into it. Creative Fillings: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Consider adding a layer of caramelized onions or swapping pecans with pistachios for a unique twist on your Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry. Portion Wisely: Cut the Brie into bite-sized pieces for easy serving and enjoyment. It makes for a more elegant presentation and keeps guests coming back for more. How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Fridge: Enjoy your Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry fresh for up to 3 days when tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Freezer: If you want to make it ahead, freeze the assembled pastries (unbaked) for up to 2 months. Wrap each securely in aluminum foil, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. Baking from Frozen: Bake directly from the freezer for an additional 10-15 minutes, ensuring the pastry is golden brown and puffed. Reheating: For leftovers, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, allowing it to regain its flaky texture while warming the Brie. Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Variations Feel free to explore new flavors and texture combinations with your own twist on this delicious recipe! Camembert Swap: Replace Brie with Camembert for a rich, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with cranberries. A lovely change that adds a delightful creaminess and depth to your dish. Nuts Galore: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a crunchier texture and unique nutty flavor. Experimenting with nut varieties opens up various dimensions and enhances the overall taste experience. Sweetener Options: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness that complements the savory Brie well. Whether drizzle or glaze, this change can transport your palate to a cozy fall day. Spiced Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger for an unexpected warmth and spice kick to delight your taste buds. These spices create an aromatic embrace that’ll have everyone asking for the secret ingredient. Savory Layer: Incorporate a layer of caramelized onions for a sweet-savory flavor boost that balances the tart cranberries beautifully. This addition introduces a rich depth, truly elevating your appetizer to gourmet status. Zesty Citrus: Mix in orange or lemon zest with your cranberries to impart a fresh, zesty brightness that brightens this dish. Citrus notes intertwine beautifully with the creamy Brie, creating a fresh explosion in each bite. Heat it Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick that contrasts delightfully with the sweetness. This variation can tickle your taste buds and wow your guests with just the right amount of heat. Dried Fruit Twist: Consider dried cherries or apricots in place of cranberries for a different fruity profile that still sings in this dish. These swaps can add unique sweet notes, offering a refreshing take on your beloved appetizer. Feeling inspired to explore these variations? Check out my easy appetizer ideas that fit perfectly into your next gathering, ensuring your culinary skills steal the show! Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe FAQs How do I select the best Brie cheese for this recipe? When choosing your Brie cheese, look for a wheel that is firm yet slightly soft to the touch, indicating ripeness. The color should be pale ivory, and the rind should appear intact and not overly bloomed with dark spots. For an ideal result, I recommend a creamy, buttery Brie with a smooth texture that melds beautifully when baked. What is the best way to store leftover Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry? To store leftovers, wrap the Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 3 days in the refrigerator. I often find that letting it sit at room temperature for a bit before enjoying it again can help revive its flavors. Can I freeze the assembled Cranberry Pecan Brie before baking? Absolutely! You can prepare the Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry and freeze it unbaked for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it securely in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. For added protection, place the wrapped pastry in a zip-top freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can bake it straight from the freezer; just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s properly cooked through. How do I reheat leftovers without losing the flaky texture? To reheat leftover Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pastry on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method will help maintain that delightful flaky texture while warming the Brie inside. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pastry soggy. Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies? If you or your guests have nut allergies, you can easily omit the pecans from the recipe. Alternatively, you can substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to maintain some crunch without introducing nuts. Just be mindful that the flavors and textures will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious! Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry: Pure Holiday Bliss This Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry is a gourmet appetizer that combines sweet-tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy Brie, wrapped in a golden, flaky shell. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1 wheel Brie Cheese Use a whole wheel for a gooey texture when baked.1 cup Cranberries Can use fresh or dried.1 cup Pecans Can substitute with walnuts or almonds.2 tablespoons Honey/Maple Syrup Optional for extra sweetness.1 teaspoon Cinnamon Optional for warmth.For the Pastry1 sheet Puff Pastry Choose thawed, pre-rolled sheets. Equipment OvenBaking sheetParchment paperRolling Pin Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry and transfer it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.Place the Brie in the center of the puff pastry and top with cranberries and pecans. Drizzle honey or maple syrup and sprinkle cinnamon if desired.Fold and seal the puff pastry edges over the Brie.Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving with crackers or baguette. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 6gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure puff pastry is fully thawed before use for the best results. For a golden crust, brush with egg wash before baking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!