Elevate your holiday spread with this showstopping Harvest Cranberry Brie Tart with Puff Pastry. Buttery, flaky puff pastry cradles a rich, creamy brie filling and a vibrant cranberry compote – the ultimate flavor pairing that’s equal parts elegant and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a cozy, indulgent treat, this tart delivers big on flavor and presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Harvest Cranberry Brie Tart with Puff Pastry
This Harvest Cranberry Brie Tart with Puff Pastry is an absolute showstopper that’s sure to impress your guests. The combination of buttery, flaky puff pastry, creamy brie, and bright, zesty cranberry compote is irresistible. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tart flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, with simple, straightforward steps that deliver reliable, chef-tested results. Serve this tart as the centerpiece of your holiday spread or enjoy it as a cozy, indulgent treat any time of year.
Ingredients
This Harvest Cranberry Brie Tart with Puff Pastry features a short, but impactful list of high-quality ingredients. You’ll need puff pastry, a wheel of creamy brie, fresh cranberries, sugar, orange zest, and a few pantry staples. The result is a rich, flavorful tart that’s bursting with the vibrant, seasonal flavors of fall.
- 1 sheet of puff pastry – flaky, buttery goodness
- 1 wheel of brie cheese – creamy, melty, and oh-so-indulgent
- 12 oz fresh cranberries – tart and bright
- 3/4 cup sugar – to balance the cranberry tang
- 1 tbsp orange zest – for a hint of citrus
Ingredient Substitutions
- Brie Cheese: Swap out the brie for another soft, creamy cheese like goat cheese or Camembert. The silky texture and rich flavor will pair beautifully with the cranberry compote.
- Cranberry Compote: Feel free to experiment with different fruit compotes, such as apple, pear, or fig. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness and seasonings to your liking.
How to Make Harvest Cranberry Brie Tart with Puff Pastry
This Harvest Cranberry Brie Tart with Puff Pastry is easier to make than it looks. Just follow these simple, chef-tested steps for a showstopping result.
Step 1: Prep Work
Begin by making the cranberry compote. In a saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange zest. Simmer the mixture until the cranberries burst and the compote thickens, about 15-20 minutes. Allow the compote to cool completely before using.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Unfurl the puff pastry and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to gently roll out the pastry to a 12-inch square. Score a 1-inch border around the edge, being careful not to cut all the way through. Prick the center of the pastry with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Place the wheel of brie in the center of the pastry. Top with the cooled cranberry compote, spreading it evenly to the scored border. Fold the pastry edges over the brie, creating a rustic, free-form tart.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Brush the pastry edges with a beaten egg, then bake the tart at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky. Let the tart cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Topping Ideas: For a truly showstopping presentation, consider topping the baked tart with toasted pecans, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkling of fresh thyme.
- Cheese Swap: You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or Camembert, to suit your personal preferences.
- Fruit Compote: Feel free to try other fruit compotes, like apple, pear, or fig, in place of the cranberry. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness and seasonings accordingly.
- Key to Success: The key to success is using high-quality, fresh ingredients and following the simple, straightforward steps. This will ensure a reliable, chef-tested result every time.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a selection of crackers and chutneys.
Storage: Any leftover tart can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, simply place the tart in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Make-Ahead: This Harvest Cranberry Brie Tart is an ideal make-ahead option for holiday gatherings. The cranberry compote can be made up to 1 week in advance, and the assembled tart can be baked the day of your event.
Nutrition Information
This Harvest Cranberry Brie Tart is a rich, indulgent treat, but it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Each serving provides a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, thanks to the puff pastry, brie, and cranberries. It’s a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a satisfying and nourishing addition to your holiday table.
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of the tart)
- Calories: 362 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbs: 36 g
- Fat: 21 g
- Sodium: 403 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ensure the puff pastry stays crisp?
To keep the puff pastry crisp and flaky, be sure to prick the center with a fork before baking. This will help prevent the pastry from puffing up too much and becoming soggy.
Can I make the cranberry compote ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cranberry compote can be made up to 1 week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes assembly a breeze when you’re ready to bake the tart.
How do I know when the brie is properly melted?
The brie should be soft and spreadable when the tart comes out of the oven. If it still appears firm, you can return the tart to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to fully melt.
Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes, frozen puff pastry works great in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before unrolling and using.
What should I serve with the Harvest Cranberry Brie Tart?
This tart pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a selection of crackers and chutneys. It’s also delicious on its own as a stand-alone appetizer or light main course.
Try These Next
- Harvest Festive Turkey And Cranberry Sliders
- Cheesy Applewood Smoked Turkey Melt With Cranberry Sauce
- Harvest Maple Bacon Burger With Spiced Apple Slaw
Harvest Cranberry Brie Tart with Puff Pastry
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: 🎉 Festive & Seasonal Feasts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Harvest Cranberry Brie Tart with Puff Pastry is a delightful appetizer perfect for any festive gathering. The buttery puff pastry is filled with creamy brie cheese and tart cranberries, creating a delicious contrast of flavors that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
8 oz brie cheese, cut into slices
1 cup fresh cranberries
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Fresh thyme, for garnish
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and place it in a tart pan.
3. 3. Slice the brie cheese and arrange it evenly over the pastry.
4. 4. In a bowl, mix fresh cranberries, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Spoon the mixture over the brie.
5. 5. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, creating a rustic edge.
6. 6. Brush the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
7. 7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
8. 8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh thyme.
Notes
Serve warm as a festive appetizer or a delightful addition to your holiday table. This tart can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Cranberry, Brie, Puff Pastry, Tart