Mediterranean Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath
The Mediterranean Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath is a festive appetizer designed to impress without feeling complicated. Warm, melted brie sits at the center of this dish, surrounded by golden pastry and bright pops of cranberry that bring both color and a gentle sweetness. Mediterranean herbs and olive oil add balance, keeping the wreath rich yet not heavy. It is the kind of centerpiece that invites people to gather around the table, tear off a piece, and enjoy it together. Perfect for holiday dinners, Christmas parties, or cozy winter evenings, this wreath looks elegant while remaining surprisingly easy to prepare.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: About 45 minutes
Ingredients
Base and Filling
1 round wheel of brie cheese (about 200–250 g)
1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry, thawed
½ cup fresh or dried cranberries
2 tablespoons honey
Mediterranean Flavor Additions
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 small clove garlic, finely grated
Finishing Touches
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds
Fresh rosemary sprigs and extra cranberries for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Place the brie wheel in the center of the tray.
Lightly score the top rind of the brie in a crisscross pattern.
Drizzle the brie with honey and olive oil.
Sprinkle rosemary, thyme, and grated garlic over the top.
Scatter cranberries evenly around the brie.
Cut the puff pastry into long strips, about 2 cm wide.
Wrap the pastry strips around the brie in a circular pattern to form a wreath.
Brush the pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle with seeds.
Bake for 25 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden.
Tips
Use cold puff pastry for easier shaping.
Choose a firm brie so it holds its shape while baking.
Score the brie lightly to help flavors soak in.
Do not overload with cranberries to avoid excess moisture.
Fresh herbs provide the best aroma.
Brush egg wash evenly for a golden finish.
Leave small gaps between pastry strips for a wreath look.
Let the wreath rest 5 minutes before serving.
Serve warm for best texture.
Pair with crackers or sliced bread for easy sharing.
Variations
Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Replace honey with fig or date syrup.
Use camembert instead of brie.
Add orange zest for citrus brightness.
Swap cranberries with pomegranate seeds.
Use filo pastry for a lighter texture.
Add chili flakes for a sweet-heat contrast.
Try sage instead of rosemary.
Use whole wheat puff pastry if available.
Serve with a side of olive tapenade.
Q&A
Can I prepare this wreath ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 8 hours before baking.
Will the brie completely melt?
It becomes soft and creamy but stays contained in the pastry.
Can I use dried cranberries?
Yes, both fresh and dried work well.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, as long as the brie is vegetarian-friendly.
What should I serve with it?
Crackers, toasted bread, or apple slices pair well.
Can I skip garlic?
Yes, it is optional.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Can I reheat it?
Yes, reheat in the oven at low heat.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, it has mild, sweet flavors.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free puff pastry if available.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 280–320
Protein: 8–10 g
Carbohydrates: 20–24 g
Fat: 18–20 g
Contains calcium and healthy fats
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Brie Cheese and Cranberry Christmas Wreath is a beautiful balance of festive charm and simple Mediterranean flavor. With minimal preparation and maximum visual appeal, it is a dish that feels special without being stressful to make. The creamy brie, sweet cranberries, and crisp pastry create a combination that guests naturally gravitate toward. Whether served as a holiday appetizer or a cozy winter treat, this wreath brings warmth, elegance, and a sense of celebration to the table.