Imagine gathering around with friends or family to share a festive, flaky, and savory centerpiece that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. This Easy Sausage Roll Wreath with Cranberries Recipe is exactly that—a show-stopping dish that combines juicy sausage, tart cranberries, and crunchy nuts, all wrapped in golden, buttery puff pastry. It’s the perfect conversation starter at any holiday brunch or cozy gathering and remarkably simple to pull together. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to celebration treat every season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this recipe are straightforward but each one plays an essential role in creating the beautiful balance of flavors and textures. From the rich sausage meat to the sweet and tangy cranberries, every element contributes to the festive charm of this wreath.
- 400g/14oz sausages: Choose your favourite good quality free-range sausages for juicy, flavorful meat.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Adds sweetness and a chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with the savory sausage.
- 1/4 cup pecans: Brings a crunchy nuttiness that compliments the fruit and meat.
- 1/4 cup flaked almonds: Offers a delicate, buttery texture and a lovely crunch.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the sausage filling without overpowering it.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground to add a mild heat and depth.
- 1 sheet ready rolled puff pastry: The golden, flaky wrap that makes the wreath both beautiful and indulgent.
- 1 cup cranberry sauce: Acts as a delicious spread and glaze to tie everything together with its sweet and tart notes.
- 1 egg, whisked: For brushing the pastry to achieve a gorgeous golden crust.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional): Adds a subtle nutty flavor and extra crunch to the crust.
How to Make Easy Sausage Roll Wreath with Cranberries Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage Filling
Begin by removing the sausage meat from its casing and placing it into a mixing bowl. Combine the sausage with dried cranberries, pecans, flaked almonds, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together gently until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated, allowing those bright bursts of cranberry and crunchy nuts to meld beautifully with the savory sausage.
Step 2: Roll Out the Pastry
Unfold your ready rolled puff pastry sheet onto a clean surface. Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the entire sheet, which not only adds moisture but infuses an extra layer of festive flavor that will shine through in every bite.
Step 3: Shape the Wreath
Carefully spoon the sausage mixture over the cranberry sauce in a long rope, shaping it to form a circle on the pastry, leaving a bit of space at the edges. Then gently fold the pastry over the filling, sealing the edges well. Use your hands to pinch and shape the pastry-wrapped sausage into a neat wreath shape.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Seeds
Brush the entire wreath evenly with the whisked egg. This step is key for creating that irresistible glossy, golden finish. If you’re using sesame seeds, sprinkle them generously over the top now to add visual appeal and a lovely crunch.
Step 5: Baking Perfection
Place your sausage roll wreath onto a parchment-lined baking tray and pop it into a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up, golden brown, and irresistibly crispy. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overbake—the balance of crispness and juiciness is what makes this recipe a winner!
How to Serve Easy Sausage Roll Wreath with Cranberries Recipe
Garnishes
Once your wreath is baked and slightly cooled, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs or thyme for a fragrant, festive touch that complements the warmth of the sausage and the tartness of the cranberries. A light dusting of flaky sea salt sprinkled on the top right before serving will also elevate the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This wreath pairs perfectly with fresh, crisp salads like a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette or a crunchy slaw to balance out the rich pastry. For a cozy winter meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes to extend those comforting, hearty vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the wreath on a large rustic wooden board to emphasize the homestyle charm. Add small bowls of mustard or extra cranberry sauce nearby for dipping, so everyone can customize each bite. For a brunch spread, plate with soft cheeses and crusty bread to turn this one dish into a feast that looks and tastes spectacular.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your sausage roll wreath in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to enjoy the festive flavors even after the initial celebration without any hassle.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, wrap the unbaked wreath tightly in cling film and foil, then freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready for a showstopper, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed for a fresh-from-the-oven experience with minimal effort.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, pop slices in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes to refresh the crisp pastry and warm the filling. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the pastry flaky and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use vegetarian sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Plant-based sausages can be substituted to make this wreath vegetarian-friendly, and pairing them with the cranberries and nuts still creates a delicious, festive flavor profile.
What type of cranberry sauce works best?
A good quality homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce that’s not overly sweet works perfectly, as it adds a tangy balance that brightens the rich sausage filling.
Can I prepare the wreath entirely ahead of time?
You can assemble the wreath and keep it refrigerated for a few hours before baking, but for the flakiest pastry, avoid assembling too far in advance to prevent sogginess.
Are there nut-free substitutions?
If you have nut allergies, feel free to omit the pecans and almonds, or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch without the nuts.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free puff pastry and gluten-free sausage to adapt this recipe. Ensure your other ingredients, like cranberry sauce, are also gluten-free for a safe and tasty outcome.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Sausage Roll Wreath with Cranberries Recipe isn’t just food; it’s a festive hug on a plate that’s bound to impress your guests and bring loads of smiles around the table. It’s simple enough to whip up even when life gets busy but special enough to make every occasion feel memorable. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it and watch how this vibrant wreath becomes the highlight of your celebrations!
PrintEasy Sausage Roll Wreath with Cranberries Recipe
This Easy Sausage Roll Wreath with Cranberries is a festive and savory appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining juicy sausages, tart dried cranberries, crunchy nuts, and flaky puff pastry, this wreath is both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying. The addition of cranberry sauce adds a sweet and tangy contrast, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 400g/14oz good quality, free-range sausages (casings removed)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup flaked almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
Pastry & Topping
- 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry
- 1 egg, whisked (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Serve With
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage Filling: Remove the sausage meat from the casings and place it in a large bowl. Add dried cranberries, chopped pecans, flaked almonds, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Shape the Wreath: Roll out the sheet of puff pastry on a floured surface into a circle. Place the sausage mixture evenly around the edge of the pastry in a ring, leaving a gap in the center. Fold the pastry over the filling and seal the edges to form a wreath shape.
- Apply Egg Wash and Seeds: Brush the entire pastry wreath with the whisked egg to give it a golden, glossy finish when baked. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the top if using, for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the Wreath: Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F (fan 180°C/350°F). Place the wreath on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the sausage is thoroughly cooked.
- Serve with Cranberry Sauce: Allow the wreath to cool slightly before transferring to a serving plate. Serve warm with cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Use good quality sausage meat for the best flavor.
- Make sure to seal the pastry edges well to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans and almonds and add extra dried cranberries or substitute with seeds.
- The wreath can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to maintain pastry crispness.