Cranberry Brie Tart Recipe – Easy Holiday Appetizer
This cranberry brie tart is a show-stopping holiday appetizer! Buttery puff pastry layered with creamy brie and tangy cranberries makes the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering.
Equipment
- Baking sheet or tart pan
- Parchment paper
- Knife + cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (or tart shell)
- 8 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce or compote (homemade or canned)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary leaves
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Pastry: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out puff pastry or prepare tart shell. Chill pastry for 10 minutes.
- Layer Brie: Slice brie and arrange evenly over pastry base.
- Add Cranberries: Spoon cranberry sauce over brie in a thin, even layer.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until pastry is golden and brie is melted.
- Garnish: Drizzle honey or maple syrup, sprinkle herbs, and add coarse sugar if desired.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm for gooey texture, or at room temperature for easier handling.
Notes
- Chill pastry before baking for best rise.
- Don’t overload cranberry sauce—thin layer prevents sogginess.
- Brie should be baked just until melted to avoid oil separation.
- Garnish with herbs or nuts for flavor and presentation.
- Best served warm, but can be enjoyed at room temperature.