Mediterranean Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree
Mediterranean Brie and Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree is a festive, show-stopping appetizer that looks as impressive as it tastes. This recipe transforms buttery puff pastry into a golden, flaky “tree” shape layered with creamy Brie, tangy cranberries, and hints of Mediterranean herbs. The balance of rich cheese, bright fruit, and crisp pastry makes every bite feel special without requiring complicated techniques. It is perfect for holiday tables, dinner parties, or any time you want to create a centerpiece that people can pull apart and share. Despite its elegant look, this recipe is very approachable and comes together with just a few simple steps.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Chilling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 45–55 minutes
Servings: 8–10 people
Ingredients
2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
7 oz (200 g) Brie cheese, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cranberry sauce or cranberry chutney
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or parsley, finely chopped
Flour, for dusting the surface
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and roll out one sheet of puff pastry into a neat rectangle.
Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
Arrange slices of Brie over the cranberry layer, covering as evenly as possible.
Sprinkle olive oil lightly over the cheese, then dust with oregano and garlic powder.
Top with the second puff pastry sheet and gently press around the edges to seal.
Cut the layered pastry into a large triangle shape to resemble a Christmas tree, using the trimmed edges for a small “trunk.”
Make horizontal cuts along both sides of the triangle and gently twist each strip to create branches.
Brush the entire pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle with seeds and fresh herbs if using.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until puffed up and deeply golden, then cool slightly before serving.
Tips
Keep puff pastry cold, as warm pastry is harder to cut and twist cleanly.
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for crisp, defined edges.
Thin slices of Brie melt more evenly and prevent soggy layers.
Avoid overfilling with cranberry sauce to keep the pastry flaky.
Chill the shaped tree for 10 minutes before baking to help it hold its form.
Press edges firmly to prevent cheese from leaking out during baking.
Fake a wooden “trunk” using pastry scraps to make the tree shape more realistic.
Rotate the tray halfway through baking for even browning.
Let it rest for a few minutes before transferring to a serving board.
Serve warm for the best texture and melty center.
Variations
Fig and Brie: Replace cranberry sauce with fig jam.
Spinach and feta: Swap Brie for feta and add cooked, drained spinach.
Pesto and mozzarella: Spread basil pesto and use shredded mozzarella.
Honey walnut: Drizzle honey and sprinkle chopped walnuts over the Brie.
Caramelized onion: Use slow-cooked onions instead of cranberry sauce.
Savory sausage: Add cooked, crumbled sausage for a heartier version.
Cheese blend: Mix Brie with cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Pear and gorgonzola: Use thin pear slices and gorgonzola cheese.
Herb butter: Spread softened butter mixed with herbs instead of olive oil.
Spicy cranberry: Stir chili flakes or jalapeños into the cranberry sauce.
Q & A
Q1: Can I assemble this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze the pastry tree before baking?
Yes, you can freeze it flat and bake it directly from frozen with a few extra minutes.
Q: What if I do not have Brie?
Camembert or any soft, creamy cheese works well as a substitute.
Q: Will the cranberry filling leak out?
A small amount may bubble out, but sealing the edges well minimizes this.
Q: How do I cut it for serving?
You can simply pull apart the twisted branches by hand.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free puff pastry if available in your area.
Q: Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
Yes, homemade or store-bought both work perfectly.
Q: Is this served hot or cold?
It is best served warm when the cheese is soft and creamy.
Q: Can I make it sweeter or more savory?
Yes, adjust the sweetness by adding honey or the savoriness with extra herbs and salt.
Q: How long do leftovers last?
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 280
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fat: 19 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 7 g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Brie and Cranberry Puff Pastry Tree is a beautiful and delicious dish that turns simple ingredients into something truly festive. The flaky pastry, creamy cheese, and bright cranberry filling create a balance that feels rich but still fresh and light. It is easy enough for home cooks of all skill levels, yet impressive enough to be the centerpiece of any holiday table. Whether you serve it for a celebration or a cozy gathering, it brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of Mediterranean-inspired charm to every occasion.