Cheesy Tart with Brie, Cranberries & Toasted Walnuts
This elegant sweet-and-savory tart combines creamy melted Brie, tangy cranberries, and crunchy toasted walnuts, all wrapped in a buttery pastry crust. A warm drizzle of spicy hot honey ties everything together with a bold, irresistible finish. Perfect for holiday gatherings, brunch spreads, or a sophisticated appetizer.
Time Required
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Servings: 6–8 slices
Ingredients
For the Tart:
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed) or homemade tart crust
8 oz (225g) Brie cheese, sliced (rind on or off)
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup fresh cranberries (optional, for extra tartness)
½ cup walnuts, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
For the Warm Hot Honey:
⅓ cup honey
½–1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out puff pastry onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Lightly score a 1-inch border around the edges (don’t cut through).
Brush the edges with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Toast the Walnuts
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped walnuts and toast for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
Remove from heat and let cool.
Assemble the Tart
Arrange Brie slices evenly inside the scored border.
Sprinkle dried cranberries and fresh cranberries over the cheese.
Scatter toasted walnuts on top.
Add fresh thyme if using.
Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until pastry is golden and puffed.
Cheese should be melted and slightly bubbly.
Make the Warm Hot Honey
In a small saucepan, gently heat honey over low heat.
Stir in chili flakes, vinegar/lemon juice, and salt.
Warm for 2–3 minutes (do not boil).
Let sit for 5 minutes to infuse flavor.
Finish & Serve
Drizzle warm hot honey over the tart just before serving.
Slice and serve warm.
Tips for Success
Use high-quality Brie for the creamiest texture.
For extra sweetness, add a thin layer of cranberry sauce under the Brie.
If the crust puffs too much in the center, gently press it down with a spoon after baking.
Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving for a gourmet touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes! Bake it ahead and reheat at 325°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes. Add hot honey just before serving.
Q: Can I substitute the Brie?
Yes, Camembert or goat cheese works beautifully.
Q: Can I use store-bought hot honey?
Absolutely! Simply warm it slightly before drizzling.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven for best texture.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving – 1 slice)
Calories: 320–360 kcal
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 12g