Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath Recipe | Easy Holiday Appetizer with Crescent Dough, Brie & Bacon

A Show-Stopping Holiday Appetizer

When it comes to holiday entertaining, few dishes deliver the wow factor quite like the Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath. Inspired by the festive creations of Desert Island Dishes, Sunday Table, and Snack On Meat, this savory showstopper is as delicious as it is dazzling. Imagine buttery crescent dough wrapped around gooey brie, crispy bacon, and a jewel-toned jam—then baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of centerpiece that draws a crowd and disappears in minutes.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy Christmas brunch, ringing in the New Year with friends, or simply gathering around the fire on a chilly winter evening, this wreath fits the bill. It’s easy to assemble, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress. Plus, it doubles as both a stunning table decoration and a crave-worthy appetizer. If you’re looking to elevate your holiday spread without the stress, this wreath is your new go-to.

What Makes This Wreath So Irresistible

The magic of the Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Buttery, flaky crescent dough forms the base, wrapping around creamy, melty brie that oozes with every slice. Add to that the salty crunch of crispy bacon and a layer of sweet-tart jam—be it cranberry, raspberry, or even a spicy hot pepper jelly—and you’ve got a bite that hits every note.

Despite its elegant appearance, this wreath is surprisingly simple to make. The crescent dough does most of the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on layering your favorite fillings. It’s a recipe that looks like it took hours, but comes together in under 30 minutes.

Best of all, it’s endlessly adaptable. Swap in pancetta or prosciutto, try different cheeses, or experiment with unique jams and toppings. Whether you’re a seasoned host or a first-time entertainer, this wreath makes holiday magic effortless.

Ingredient Overview

Creating the perfect Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath starts with a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients:

• Dough: Use refrigerated crescent roll dough for ease and flakiness. It’s the ideal base for wrapping and baking into a golden wreath.
• Cheese: Brie is the star—its creamy texture and mild flavor pair beautifully with both sweet and savory elements. You can leave the rind on for structure or remove it for extra meltiness.
• Meat: Crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch. For a twist, try pancetta or prosciutto for a more refined flavor.
• Jam: Choose a jam that complements the richness of the brie—cranberry for tartness, raspberry for sweetness, or hot pepper jelly for a spicy kick.
• Toppings: Finish with fresh thyme for an herby aroma, a drizzle of honey for sweetness, and flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch.

Optional Add-Ons:

• Chopped pecans for crunch
• Fig preserves or apricot jam for a deeper sweetness
• A swipe of Dijon mustard for a tangy contrast

Tip: Use a wheel of brie cut into cubes or slices to ensure even melting and easy layering.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Arrange the dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. On the parchment-lined sheet, arrange the triangles in a circle with the wide ends overlapping in the center and the points facing outward, forming a sunburst shape.
3. Spread the jam: Spoon your chosen jam around the inner ring of the dough, staying within the center circle.
4. Add the brie: Place cubes or slices of brie evenly over the jam. Make sure the cheese is distributed all the way around.
5. Layer the bacon: Add crispy bacon pieces on top of the brie. If using pancetta or prosciutto, layer it evenly for full coverage.
6. Fold and tuck: Carefully fold the pointed ends of the dough triangles over the filling and tuck them under the inner edge to seal the wreath.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
8. Finish: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly. Drizzle with honey, sprinkle with fresh thyme and flaky sea salt.

Tip: Letting the wreath rest before slicing helps prevent the cheese from running out too quickly, ensuring each slice is perfectly gooey and intact.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ons

Make this wreath your own with creative swaps and additions:

• Meat: Try prosciutto or pancetta for a more refined flavor profile.
• Jam: Switch things up with fig jam, apricot preserves, or a savory onion marmalade.
• Toppings: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or sprinkle fresh rosemary for an aromatic twist.
• Spreads: A thin layer of Dijon mustard under the jam adds a tangy kick.

These variations let you tailor the wreath to your guests’ tastes or the occasion—whether you’re going sweet, savory, or somewhere in between.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath warm, either sliced with a cheese knife or as a pull-apart treat. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works beautifully as a centerpiece on a holiday appetizer board or brunch spread.

Pair it with festive drinks like mulled wine, spiced cider, or a chilled glass of sparkling rosé to complement the rich, savory-sweet flavors. Add fresh fruit, nuts, and crackers around the wreath for a complete grazing experience. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a quiet winter morning, this wreath brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of elegance to any gathering.