Flaky Puff Pastry with Brie, Cranberries, and Toasted Walnuts Recipe

Introduction

This flaky puff pastry with Brie, cranberries, and toasted walnuts offers a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors. It’s an easy yet elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a delightful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet (250 g) puff pastry, thawed
• 4 oz (115 g) Brie cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup (40 g) dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup (30 g) walnuts, toasted and chopped
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 tbsp honey (30 ml)
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Unfold and gently roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
3. Step 3: Transfer the pastry to the prepared baking sheet and layer Brie slices in the center third of the pastry.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle dried cranberries and toasted walnuts evenly over the Brie.
5. Step 5: Drizzle honey over the toppings and sprinkle with chili flakes if using.
6. Step 6: Fold over the pastry edges to seal tightly and tuck in the ends to enclose the filling.
7. Step 7: Brush the top of the pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves if desired.
8. Step 8: Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
9. Step 9: Allow to cool for 5–10 minutes, then slice and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cracked black pepper over the Brie before adding cranberries.
• Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if preferred.
• Serve with a side of fresh greens for a light meal.
• If you like it spicier, increase the chili flakes gradually.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to retain the flakiness of the pastry. Avoid microwaving as it makes the pastry soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry directly without thawing?

It’s best to thaw puff pastry according to package instructions before using to ensure even cooking and proper puffing.

What can I use if I don’t have Brie cheese?

You can substitute Brie with Camembert or any soft, creamy cheese like goat cheese for a similar texture and mild flavor.

Flaky Puff Pastry with Brie, Cranberries, and Toasted Walnuts Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 52 reviews

This flaky puff pastry filled with creamy Brie, tart dried cranberries, and crunchy toasted walnuts is a delightful appetizer or snack. Drizzled with honey and optionally spiced with chili flakes, it combines sweet, savory, and a hint of heat wrapped in golden, buttery puff pastry. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy treat served warm.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pastry

• 1 sheet (250 g) puff pastry, thawed

Filling

• 4 oz (115 g) Brie cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup (40 g) dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup (30 g) walnuts, toasted and chopped

Finishing Touches

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 tbsp honey (30 ml)
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Prepare Puff Pastry: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and gently roll it out on a lightly floured surface to smooth and slightly enlarge it.
3. Assemble Filling: Transfer the prepared puff pastry onto the lined baking sheet. Arrange slices of Brie cheese evenly in the center third section of the pastry, ensuring good coverage.
4. Add Cranberries and Walnuts: Evenly sprinkle dried cranberries and toasted, chopped walnuts over the Brie, distributing the flavors throughout the center.
5. Drizzle and Season: Drizzle honey over the filling for sweetness, and optionally sprinkle chili flakes for a subtle heat layer.
6. Fold and Seal Pastry: Carefully fold over the edges of the puff pastry to encase the filling, pressing tightly to seal the edges and tucking in the ends to keep everything contained during baking.
7. Apply Egg Wash and Garnish: Brush the top of the folded pastry with beaten egg to achieve a beautiful golden crust. Optionally, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top for an aromatic garnish.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the pastry for 20–22 minutes, or until it is puffed, golden brown, and cooked through.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes to set. Slice into portions and serve warm to enjoy the melty Brie and crunchy texture.

Notes

• Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold before rolling to maintain flakiness.
• To toast walnuts, dry roast them in a skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned.
• The chili flakes are optional; omit them if you prefer a purely sweet and savory flavor.
• Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal aroma but can be substituted with rosemary or omitted.
• For a vegetarian diet, ensure the Brie cheese is made with vegetarian-friendly rennet.

Keywords: puff pastry, Brie cheese, cranberries, walnuts, honey, appetizer, baked pastry, festive snack