Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the holiday season approaches, the kitchen transforms into a bustling hub of warmth and cheer. One dish that captures this festive spirit perfectly is the Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer. Easy to prepare and elegantly indulgent, this irresistible treat combines the creamy richness of Brie cheese with the vibrant sweetness of cranberry sauce, all nestled within a flaky crescent roll. It’s a showstopper for any gathering, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that promises to impress your guests. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a dish that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart. Curious about how to create this cozy culinary delight? Let’s dive in! Why You’ll Love This Appetizer Irresistible Flavors: The blend of tangy cranberry and creamy Brie is simply heavenly, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Quick Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe comes together effortlessly, perfect for busy hosts! Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with assorted crackers, sliced baguette, or even fresh fruit for a charming presentation that caters to all tastes. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer is not only a visual delight, but it also tantalizes the taste buds, making it an instant hit at holiday gatherings. Elevated Simplicity: Who knew something that’s so easy to make could look this elegant? If you love festive recipes, also check out my delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese for more cozy vibes! Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer Ingredients For the Crescent Dough • Pillsbury Crescent Rolls – A quick way to achieve a flaky, buttery crust; consider homemade puff pastry for a gourmet twist. For the Filling • Cranberry Sauce – This adds the perfect tanginess to balance the cheese; you can use about 1/4 cup, either homemade or store-bought for convenience. • Brie Cheese – The star of the show that melts beautifully; feel free to swap with Camembert for a stronger flavor profile. For the Finishing Touch • Egg – Used for an egg wash that gives the pastry a gorgeous golden finish; omit for a vegan option or use plant-based milk as a wash. This delicious Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer is sure to become a favorite at your festive gatherings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step is crucial as it ensures that your Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer bakes evenly, achieving that lovely golden crust. While the oven heats up, you can prepare the dough and filling, making the most of your time in the kitchen. Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Rolls Open a can of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls and carefully tear the dough into two rectangles. Make sure to press the perforations together to seal the seams, creating a solid surface for your filling. This will help contain the gooey goodness as it bakes, ensuring nothing escapes and that your appetizer stays perfectly intact. Step 3: Assemble the Filling Place one rectangle of dough on a sheet of parchment paper to make the transfer easier. Spoon about 1/4 cup of cranberry sauce into the center of the dough, spreading it out evenly. Top the cranberry sauce with a round of Brie cheese, allowing the creamy richness to shine through. Drizzle a little more cranberry sauce on top of the Brie for added flavor and festive charm. Step 4: Encase the Filling Cover the delightful mixture with the second rectangle of crescent roll dough. Gently fold the edges up and around the Brie to encase it completely, sealing the filling inside. Be sure to press the seams firmly to avoid any leaks during baking. This step ensures that your Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer holds its shape as it puffs up in the oven. Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash In a small bowl, whisk together an egg to prepare an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, evenly coat the surface of the dough with the beaten egg. This step not only gives the pastry a beautiful golden-brown finish but also enhances its flaky texture as it bakes. The shine from the egg wash will make your appetizer visually appealing once done. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Place the assembled dough onto a parchment-lined cookie sheet and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 40 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Keep a close eye on the dough; if it starts to brown too quickly, you may want to cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while waiting for the cheese to melt. Step 7: Cool Before Serving Once baked, remove your Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. This cooling period is essential; it gives the filling a chance to set slightly and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm with an array of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit to elevate your festive gathering! Storage Tips for Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer Room Temperature: Allow the appetizer to cool completely before leaving it out for a maximum of 2 hours. This helps maintain its texture and flavor. Fridge: Store any leftover Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps it fresh while preserving its deliciousness. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled appetizer tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: To restore the crispy texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This ensures you enjoy that gooey, melty goodness again! Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this recipe to match your taste preferences! Sweet Twist: Replace cranberry sauce with fig jam for a sweeter flavor profile that still sings of the holidays. Nutter Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the cranberry sauce for a delightful crunch. The added texture elevates the dish, making every bite more interesting. Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the cranberry sauce for a savory twist. The aromatic goodness pairs nicely with the creamy Brie, enriching the overall flavor experience. Mini Bites: Create Cranberry Brie Bites using puff pastry squares instead of crescent rolls. This makes for a perfect finger food option at parties! Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce for a bit of heat that contrasts beautifully with the cheese’s creaminess. Cheese Swap: Try swapping Brie with Camembert for a more pronounced flavor. This variant adds a luxurious depth to the dish that cheese lovers will appreciate. Fruit Fusion: Mix in some sliced apples or pears with the cranberry sauce to hit all the sweet and tangy notes while adding brightness to the flavor profile. Savory Sweet: This dish would also shine with a layer of caramelized onions underneath the cheese, marrying the sweet and savory aspects beautifully. These variations can transform your Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer into something uniquely personal! If you’re looking for more delightful pairings, consider serving it alongside slices of fresh baguette or with my tasty Pumpkin Cream Cheese for a warm, inviting treat at your holiday gatherings! What to Serve with Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer Elevate your festive gatherings by pairing this decadent appetizer with delightful sides that complement its creamy richness and tangy flavors. Crunchy Crostini: Add a crispy touch! These little toasted bread slices provide the perfect base for layers of melted Brie and tart cranberry sauce. Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery greens add a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the baked cheese beautifully. Toss with lemon vinaigrette for an extra zing! Sweet Fig Jam: Drizzle a bit of fig jam on the side to enhance the sweet and savory experience. The flavors will harmonize wonderfully with the Brie. Savory Mini Quiches: Offer a selection of mini quiches to create a delightful brunch spread. Their buttery crust and fluffy filling complement the richness of your appetizer. Champagne or Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly adds a festive touch and cuts through the creaminess of the dip. It elevates the experience from delicious to unforgettable. Decadent Chocolate Truffles: For dessert, serve these rich treats for a sweet contrast to the savory appetizer. The balance of textures will leave your guests wanting more. Expert Tips for Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the dough while baking; it should be golden brown before removing it from the oven to prevent a soggy crust. Seal the Edges: Make sure to press the seams of the crescent dough firmly to avoid leaks during baking; a well-sealed pastry ensures all the delicious flavors stay inside. Perfect Egg Wash: Use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash evenly, enhancing the golden color and flaky texture of your Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer. Cooling is Key: Allow the baked cheese to cool for 15 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve elegantly. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to explore variations like adding chopped nuts or herbs to the cranberry sauce for a unique twist that complements the Brie beautifully. Make Ahead Options These Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the festive flavors without the last-minute rush! You can assemble the filling (cranberry sauce and Brie) inside the crescent roll dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap the assembled pastry in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just brush it with the egg wash and bake as directed. For the best results and to ensure a beautifully golden crust, avoid adding any toppings until just before baking. You’ll have a delicious and impressive appetizer ready with minimal effort! Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe Brie cheese? Choose Brie that has a soft, creamy texture without any dark spots on the rind. The cheese should feel slightly firm but yield to gentle pressure. If it’s overly soft or has a strong ammonia smell, it may be past its prime. A fresh Brie will have a pleasant aroma and a white, fluffy rind, indicating it’s perfect for your Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store your leftover Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps lock in the flavors and maintains the texture. If you wish to extend its shelf life, you can freeze it by wrapping the cooled appetizer tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. In the freezer, it can last for up to 1 month. Can I freeze the baked Brie appetizer? Absolutely! To freeze your Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer, let it cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. What if my pastry is browning too quickly? If you notice that the crescent dough is browning too fast but the Brie inside isn’t melting, it’s a good idea to cover the top loosely with aluminum foil. This will slow down the browning while allowing the cheese to get melty and gooey inside. Keep a close watch and adjust the time accordingly, about 5-10 minutes more, until perfectly baked. Is this recipe safe for pets or people with allergies? This Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer is not suitable for pets, particularly due to the cheese and the potential for high fat content. If you’re cooking for guests with allergies, be mindful of the ingredients you use. Substitute any allergens accordingly: for example, use dairy-free cheese for lactose intolerance, or switch the egg wash for a plant-based milk alternative to accommodate vegans. Can I make variations like bite-sized versions? Absolutely! For Cranberry Brie Bites, simply roll out smaller pieces of crescent dough into squares. Place a spoonful of cranberry sauce and a small piece of Brie in the center, then fold the corners to seal them. Bake as per the main recipe instructions, adjusting the baking time to around 15-20 minutes to achieve that golden brown finish. Enjoy experimenting to suit your festive gatherings! Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer for Cozy Gatherings This Cranberry and Brie Baked Cheese Appetizer combines creamy Brie with vibrant cranberry sauce in a flaky crescent roll, perfect for festive gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsCooling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 230 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crescent Dough1 can Pillsbury Crescent Rolls A quick way to achieve a flaky, buttery crust; consider homemade puff pastry for a gourmet twist.For the Filling1/4 cup Cranberry Sauce Can be homemade or store-bought.1 wheel Brie Cheese Feel free to swap with Camembert for a stronger flavor profile.For the Finishing Touch1 large Egg Use for egg wash; omit for a vegan option. Equipment Ovenbaking sheetParchment paperPastry BrushSmall bowl Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).Open a can of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls and tear the dough into two rectangles, pressing seams together.Place one rectangle of dough on parchment paper, spoon 1/4 cup of cranberry sauce in the center, and top with a round of Brie cheese.Cover with the second rectangle of crescent roll dough, folding edges up around Brie and sealing the filling inside.Whisk the egg to prepare an egg wash and coat the dough surface evenly.Place the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25 to 40 minutes until puffed and golden brown.Cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 280mgPotassium: 40mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg NotesAllow the appetizer to cool completely for up to 2 hours at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
