Name: Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1 round of Brie cheese (8–12 oz); ½ cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade); ¼ cup chopped pecans; 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness); 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon water; Fresh rosemary sprigs; Extra cranberry sauce; Chopped pecans

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 76 reviews

If you are on the lookout for a show-stopping appetizer that tastes as incredible as it looks, the Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe is a must-try. This dish brings together the creamy richness of Brie cheese wrapped in golden, buttery puff pastry, accented perfectly by the sweet-tart zing of cranberry sauce and the satisfying crunch of pecans. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels festive yet simple, making it ideal for holiday gatherings or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for special occasions and elegant snacking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two stages of preparing a wrapped cheese dish. On the left, there is a round white cheese wheel as the base layer with a smooth rind, topped with a layer of mixed pecans and dried cranberries, which adds a rough and textured look with dark brown and red colors. Over these nuts and berries, there is a mound of light brown sugar with a grainy texture, slightly spilling over to the white marbled surface. On the right side, the second stage shows the cheese fully wrapped in soft, pale dough with folds neatly gathered on top, creating a round, smooth, and slightly wrinkled shape on the white marbled surface. The layers together create a contrast of white, brown, and red colors with smooth, rough, and grainy textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in balancing flavor and texture—from flaky, buttery layers to creamy centers and crunchy accents. Here’s what you’ll need to assemble this irresistible dish:

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: Provides the light, flaky, and buttery crust that encases all the delicious fillings.
8–12 oz round Brie cheese: The star of the dish, becoming luxuriously gooey when baked.
½ cup cranberry sauce: Offers a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the rich cheese; homemade or store-bought both work beautifully.
¼ cup chopped pecans: Adds a delightful nutty crunch that complements every bite.
1 tablespoon honey (optional): A touch of sweetness that ties together the savory and tart flavors.
1 egg (for egg wash): Helps give the puff pastry a gorgeous golden-brown finish.
1 tablespoon water: Mixed with the egg to create the egg wash for a perfect glaze.

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients and letting the puff pastry sheet thaw completely if frozen. Chop the pecans finely and set them aside. If using honey, keep it ready for drizzling later. Having everything prepared makes the assembly a breeze and keeps the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Assemble the Brie and Filling

Place the Brie round in the center of the puff pastry sheet. Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the top of the Brie, then sprinkle the chopped pecans on top. If you want an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle the honey over the pecans now. This layering ensures every bite bursts with the perfect harmony of flavors.

Step 3: Wrap the Brie

Fold the edges of the puff pastry up and around the Brie, bringing the corners together at the top. Press gently to seal, making sure the Brie and fillings are securely enclosed without gaps. This step creates the beautiful golden package that will bake to perfection.

Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash

Whisk together the egg and water to make your egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the entire surface of the wrapped Brie. This will give your puff pastry a stunning sheen and golden color that looks irresistible coming out of the oven.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your wrapped Brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the puff pastry should puff up and turn a gorgeous golden brown, and the Brie inside will be melting to gooey perfection. Remove it carefully and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe

This image shows a square-shaped pastry with many thin, golden-brown flaky layers on the top and sides. Inside, there are two main layers: a creamy white layer sitting above a deep red berry filling with whole berries visible. On top, the pastry is covered with whole and chopped pecans and red berries, garnished with a small green sprig of rosemary in the center. The pastry sits on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

When serving, adding a few fresh rosemary sprigs immediately adds a pop of color and a lovely aroma that sets the tone for this festive appetizer. Extra cranberry sauce on the side invites guests to add a bit more tartness if they wish, and sprinkling some chopped pecans on the plate gives an extra hint of crunch.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh side options like crisp apple slices, crunchy celery sticks, or even some toasted baguette slices. Each side adds texture and an additional flavor layer that complements the creamy, fruity, and nutty notes of the main event.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic yet elegant presentation, serve the Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe on a wooden cheese board surrounded by an assortment of crackers and fresh fruit. Alternatively, you can slice it into wedges and place on individual plates with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of sophistication.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the delicate puff pastry, it’s best to keep the Brie wrapped tightly to preserve both the cheese’s creaminess and the nutty cranberry flavors.

Freezing

While this recipe shines best fresh, you can prepare the wrapped Brie ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Place it on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed for a fresh-baked taste at your convenience.

Reheating

To reheat, place the Brie wrapped in puff pastry in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy and the cheese overly runny.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

This particular recipe centers around Brie cheese, which is dairy. However, you could experiment with dairy-free cheese alternatives, but the texture and taste will be quite different from traditional Brie.

Is it better to use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce?

Both work beautifully! Homemade cranberry sauce offers a fresh, zesty flavor, but quality store-bought sauce is a fantastic shortcut and already perfectly balanced in sweetness and tartness.

What type of pecans should I use?

Use raw or roasted pecans according to your taste preference. Roasted pecans add a deeper flavor and crunch, while raw pecans give a milder, nuttier touch. Just chop them finely for even distribution.

Can I prepare this appetizer ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Brie wrapped in puff pastry and refrigerate it for up to a few hours before baking. You can also freeze it pre-baked as described earlier for longer storage.

How do I know when the Brie is fully melted inside?

When the puff pastry is puffed and golden and your kitchen starts smelling like warm, nutty cheese, it’s a good sign. Usually 20-25 minutes is enough, but if you want to be sure, gently press the pastry—if it feels soft underneath, the Brie is melted perfectly.

Final Thoughts

I wholeheartedly encourage you to make this Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe the star of your next gathering or cozy night in. It combines simple, wholesome ingredients into something truly spectacular that brings smiles with each bite. The blend of textures and tastes is perfectly balanced, and the impressive presentation will have everyone asking for the recipe. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved classic in your kitchen!

Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need