Description
This Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree is a stunning and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Layers of flaky puff pastry are filled with creamy brie cheese, tangy whole berry cranberry sauce, and crunchy chopped pistachios, then baked to golden perfection. Finished with fresh herb garnishes and an optional drizzle of honey, this easy-to-assemble, visually striking dish delights guests with its combination of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry Base
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 200g (7 oz) brie cheese, thinly sliced
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce or dried cranberries
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios
Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Extra chopped pistachios (for garnish)
- Optional: honey for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into triangles of decreasing size, which will stack into the shape of a tree.
- Assemble Layers: Starting with the largest triangle, layer with thin slices of brie, spread some whole berry cranberry sauce or dried cranberries, and sprinkle chopped pistachios. Continue stacking smaller triangles with the same filling to form a layered tree shape.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top of the assembled puff pastry tree with the beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden color when baked.
- Bake: Place the tree on the prepared baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs and extra chopped pistachios. Optionally, drizzle with honey before serving to add a touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Use chilled puff pastry sheets to ensure they puff well in the oven.
- Substitute dried cranberries if fresh whole berry cranberry sauce is unavailable.
- The optional honey drizzle enhances the sweet and savory balance but can be omitted for a less sweet version.
- Fresh herbs add visual appeal and an aromatic touch; rosemary or thyme both pair well with brie.
- Ensure even layering for the tree shape to hold well during baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Brie, Cranberry, Puff Pastry, Holiday Appetizer, Christmas Tree, Festive Snack, Cheese Pastry, Easy Holiday Recipe
