Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower appetizer served on a holiday table | recipesbybrad.comGolden Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower stacked on a white platter, garnished with rosemary sprigs and cranberries, perfect for festive gatherings
Quick Overview
Bring cheer to your next celebration with the delightful Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower. This visually stunning holiday centerpiece combines creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and flaky puff pastry in an irresistible appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or need a show-stopping party snack, this easy-to-make recipe promises to impress both guests and family members. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredient Breakdown
Each ingredient in this Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower plays a unique role in its flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need to create this crowd-pleasing appetizer:
Puff Pastry Sheets (2 sheets, thawed)
Store-bought puff pastry provides a light and flaky foundation for the tower. Use two sheets for layering and stacking. Thaw them according to the package instructions before use for best results.
Brie Cheese (225g/8oz wheel)
Creamy brie melts beautifully between the pastry layers. Choose a ripe wheel that’s easy to slice but still firm enough to handle. The mild richness pairs perfectly with tart cranberries.
Cranberry Sauce (1/2 cup whole berry or homemade)
Whole berry cranberry sauce adds tanginess and a touch of sweetness to each bite. Homemade or store-bought versions work well—just make sure it isn’t too runny so it holds between layers.
Egg (1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water)
An egg wash gives the pastry its golden color and shiny finish. Whisk together one egg with water before brushing over the assembled pastry shapes before baking.
Fresh Rosemary Sprigs (for garnish)
Fresh rosemary brings aroma and enhances the presentation of your finished tree tower. Use sprigs as decoration around the base for a festive touch.
Dried Cranberries (optional garnish)
Sprinkle dried cranberries over the finished tower for added color and tartness. This optional ingredient helps make the dish even more eye-catching.
Sea Salt Flakes (optional sprinkle)
A pinch of sea salt flakes can be sprinkled over the baked tree just before serving to enhance flavor by balancing sweet and savory notes.
Step By Step Recipe: Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower
Follow these clear instructions to assemble your own Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower from scratch:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Unwrap your thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Slice the brie cheese into thin pieces or small cubes so they melt evenly between layers later on. Have your cranberry sauce ready nearby for assembling.
Step 2: Cut Out Tree Shapes
Lay out both puff pastry sheets flat. Using a sharp knife or cookie cutter, cut one large tree shape from each sheet—about 9 inches tall is ideal for presentation. Collect any leftover pieces; you can use them to create small stars or ornaments that add charm when baked separately.
Step 3: Layer Brie and Cranberry
Place one tree-shaped puff pastry cutout onto your prepared baking sheet as the base layer. Evenly distribute half of your sliced brie cheese over it, then dollop cranberry sauce across the cheese without getting too close to the edges—leave about half an inch border.
Step 4: Add Second Layer and Prepare Twists
Carefully set the second tree-shaped piece of puff pastry over your filled base layer, aligning edges as closely as possible. To create decorative branches, use a sharp knife to slice horizontal strips on either side of the tree shape—being careful not to cut through the center “trunk.” Gently twist each strip two times.
Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together one egg with one tablespoon water until blended. Use a pastry brush to coat the entire surface of your assembled tree tower evenly with egg wash; this gives it that signature shine once baked.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake in your preheated oven for about 18–22 minutes or until golden brown all over and puffed up beautifully. If adding extra star-shaped toppers or ornaments from scraps, bake those alongside but check after about 10 minutes as they cook faster.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Let your Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower cool slightly on the pan before transferring carefully onto a serving platter using spatulas for support underneath. Garnish around its base with fresh rosemary sprigs and scattered dried cranberries for festive flair.
Serving and Storing Tips
Your Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower is best enjoyed warm but can be prepared ahead easily too! See below for helpful advice:
Slicing for Guests
This appetizer pulls apart easily at each twist branch for effortless serving at parties or gatherings—no knife needed! Offer small napkins or cocktail plates so guests can enjoy without mess.
Taste Pairings
This dish pairs nicely with sparkling wine or cider as well as herbal teas thanks to its mix of creamy cheese and tart fruit flavors.
Ahead-of-Time Preparation
You can assemble everything up through Step 5 several hours in advance—simply refrigerate covered until ready to bake fresh just before guests arrive.
Storage After Baking
If you have leftovers, wrap them loosely in foil after cooling completely then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to two days.
Reheating Leftovers
To reheat stored portions, place them on a baking sheet in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) until warmed through—this keeps texture crisp instead of soggy.
Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower, paying attention to details can make all the difference. Here are some mistakes you should watch out for to achieve the best results.
Overfilling the Pastry
It’s tempting to add extra brie or cranberry sauce, but overfilling can cause the puff pastry to tear or leak during baking. The filling may ooze out and create a mess on your baking tray. Use modest amounts of cheese and cranberry, allowing enough space at the edges for proper sealing and rising. This preserves the defined tree shape and prevents soggy results. Stick to recommended quantities for each layer to keep your Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower neat, flaky, and visually appealing when served.
Skipping Egg Wash
Forgetting to brush the pastry with egg wash before baking can result in a dull and pale appearance. The golden-brown finish is achieved by lightly brushing beaten egg over the puff pastry before it goes into the oven. This simple step adds shine, color, and an attractive crispness to your Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower. Always make sure to cover all exposed areas for even browning and an inviting look that makes your festive centerpiece stand out on any table.
Baking at Too High a Temperature
If you bake your Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower at too high a temperature, you may end up with burnt edges while the inside remains undercooked. It’s important to follow the recommended oven temperature for puff pastry—typically around 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking throughout, giving you a crisp exterior and gooey melted brie inside. Monitor your oven closely as temperatures can vary, and rotate your tray halfway through if needed for consistent coloring on every branch of your edible tree.
Tips and Tricks
Crafting a flawless Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower is easier with these helpful tips and tricks. Each suggestion will help you save time while delivering impressive results for this festive appetizer.
Chill Your Puff Pastry Before Shaping
Start with well-chilled puff pastry sheets when making your Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower. Cold dough is less sticky, easier to handle, and holds its shape better during cutting and assembly. If you’re working in a warm kitchen or handling the dough for an extended period, refrigerate it between steps as needed. Chilling also helps prevent excessive shrinking during baking, so each branch remains distinct after rising in the oven. Make sure both layers of pastry are cold when assembling over the brie and cranberry filling; this step supports sharp cuts and clean lines as you twist branches into that iconic tree shape.
Select High-Quality Ingredients
The flavors in a Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower are simple yet bold, so quality ingredients can significantly impact taste. Choose a creamy brie with rich flavor rather than pre-sliced or processed varieties. Opt for whole berry cranberry sauce or homemade compote instead of overly sweet canned versions with lots of additives. Good-quality store-bought puff pastry saves time but make sure it contains real butter for maximum flakiness and taste. Using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme as optional garnishes will elevate aroma without overpowering the main flavors of cheese and fruit in every bite.
Plan Your Assembly Space
Create enough workspace on your counter before assembling your Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower. Roll out parchment paper directly onto your surface; this allows easy transfer onto baking trays without disturbing your design. Arrange all tools—like sharp knives, small spoons for spreading filling, egg wash brushes, and cooling racks—within reach before beginning assembly. Pre-measure ingredients so layering remains smooth without unnecessary interruptions mid-process. This organized approach not only saves time but also reduces stress when crafting intricate shapes or serving several guests during busy holiday occasions.
Suggestions for Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower
Add your creative flair to this festive dish using these suggestions designed to inspire new flavor combinations or presentation twists.
Add Nuts for Crunch
Add chopped toasted walnuts or pecans between layers before sealing your Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower. The nuts offer subtle crunch alongside creamy cheese and tart cranberry sauce without overpowering other flavors. Sprinkle them sparingly so they don’t interfere with shaping or twisting branches but still provide that delightful texture contrast when guests break off pieces from the baked tree centerpiece.
Try Different Fruit Preserves
If you want variety beyond cranberry sauce, experiment with fig jam, apricot preserves, or even orange marmalade as alternatives in your Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower recipe. These options complement brie’s creamy qualities while introducing new flavors suited for different seasons or occasions—perfect if serving at multiple gatherings throughout the year.
Serve with Festive Garnishes
Create extra visual appeal by decorating around your finished tree tower with fresh rosemary sprigs (to mimic pine needles), pomegranate seeds for pops of color, or edible gold stars near special occasions like Christmas parties. Simple touches like these transform an appetizer into an eye-catching centerpiece that matches any seasonal celebration theme.
FAQs
How do I keep my Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower crispy?
Baking on parchment paper at the right temperature helps achieve crispness throughout each layer of pastry while keeping fillings contained. Allowing steam to escape by making tiny slits along branches also prevents sogginess inside the tree structure after baking—a key step in serving impressive results every time.
Can I prepare my Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower ahead of time?
You can assemble the tower up to one day ahead by covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating until ready to bake. Apply egg wash just before baking so it doesn’t soak into dough overnight; this ensures golden coloring after cooking while saving prep time on busy days.
What type of brie works best for this recipe?
A wheel of creamy French brie works best because it melts smoothly without turning oily or grainy during baking in puff pastry towers like this one. Avoid brie labeled “double cream” if possible since softer versions may spread too much between layers as they heat up in the oven.
Can I freeze leftover slices from my puff pastry tree tower?
You can freeze leftover cooked portions by wrapping slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil before placing them into freezer bags—this keeps moisture out while retaining flaky texture after reheating in an oven rather than microwaving so pastry stays crisp instead of turning chewy later on.
Summary
The Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower combines buttery layers with sweet-tart cranberry and creamy brie cheese for a show-stopping centerpiece. Remember not to overfill, chill dough before shaping, use quality ingredients, and bake at moderate temperatures for perfect results every time. Personalize yours by adding nuts or different preserves based on preference! Follow these simple guidelines for delicious success at any festive gathering—it’s an appetizer everyone will remember long after it’s gone from the plate.
Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower
The ultimate holiday centerpiece! This festive Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree Tower is a stunning, flaky, and gooey appetizer that looks impressive but is simple to assemble.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry (about 17.3 oz), thawed
- 7 oz wheel of Brie cheese, rind trimmed and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon milk or water (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (plus extra for garnish, optional)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll one sheet of puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut out a large triangle shape to form the base of your tree. Transfer it onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Spoon the cranberry sauce evenly over the triangle, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges. Scatter the cubed Brie and sprinkle with chopped rosemary on top of the cranberry layer.
- Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and cut an identical triangle. Place this triangle carefully over the filled base. Gently press all around the edges to seal.
- With a sharp knife, make horizontal cuts about 1 inch apart along both sides of the triangle, stopping about 1 inch from the center “trunk” so you don’t slice all the way through. Carefully twist each strip away from you two or three times to create branches.
- (Optional) Cut small stars or other festive shapes from leftover pastry scraps and place them at the top or on branches as decoration.
- In a small bowl, beat together egg and milk (or water) to make an egg wash. Brush it generously over the entire tree and any decorative pieces for shine and color.
- Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. The cheese should be bubbling slightly, and pastry will feel crisp to touch.
- Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra rosemary leaves and orange zest if desired. Serve warm—pull off branches to enjoy!
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Pasting brush (for egg wash)
- Mixing bowl (for egg wash)
- Zester or microplane (optional)
Notes
- If using homemade cranberry sauce, ensure it’s thick—not runny—to prevent soggy pastry.
- You can prepare the tree up to 4 hours ahead; cover loosely and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Add chopped toasted pecans on top of cranberry for extra crunch and flavor.
- If you prefer stronger herbs, swap rosemary for thyme or sage.
Allergy Information
- Contains: Wheat (gluten), Milk (dairy), Egg
- Optional Substitutions: Use dairy-free brie-style cheese for a vegan option; try gluten-free puff pastry if needed; skip egg wash or use plant-based milk for shine.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg