cranberry brie tart

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Cranberry Brie Tart is the kind of dish that instantly elevates any table—whether it’s a holiday celebration, weekend brunch, or an evening with guests. It offers the irresistible combination of flaky pastry, creamy Brie, and sweet-tart cranberry topping, striking a balance that feels both sophisticated and comforting. What makes this recipe especially appealing is how effortlessly it comes together despite its beautiful presentation. I once prepared it using almond milk to thin the cranberry mixture slightly, and it turned out just as glossy and flavorful. This tart is a wonderful option for entertaining because it can be served warm or at room temperature, and it pairs well with both savory and sweet elements. It’s a showstopping yet approachable recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Puff Pastry Sheet

Forms a buttery, flaky base that supports the tart and browns beautifully in the oven.

Brie Cheese

Adds creamy richness that melts into the pastry and balances the cranberries’ tartness.

Cranberries (Fresh or Frozen)

Provide bright flavor and vibrant color, making the tart visually striking.

Sugar

Sweetens the cranberry mixture and helps create a glossy finish.

Orange Zest or Orange Juice

Adds citrus brightness that complements both the Brie and cranberries.

Honey

Brings a warm, floral sweetness that enhances the tart’s overall flavor profile.

Vanilla Extract

Adds subtle depth to the cranberry mixture.

Milk or Almond Milk

Used lightly to brush the pastry edges for golden browning; almond milk works well.

Salt

Balances the sweetness and enhances the fruit and cheese.

Directions

Start by preheating your oven and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly to smooth the edges. Score a border around the pastry, about half an inch from the edge, to encourage the sides to rise while baking. Place slices of Brie evenly within the inner section of the scored area. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange zest or juice, honey, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency. Allow it to cool slightly.

Spoon the cranberry mixture over the Brie, spreading gently but keeping it within the scored border. Brush the pastry edges with milk or almond milk to encourage browning. Bake until the pastry is puffed and golden and the Brie is melted beneath the cranberries. Allow the tart to cool for a few minutes before slicing so the filling sets slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature for best texture and flavor.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This tart yields 6–8 servings depending on slice size. Prep time is about 15 minutes, and baking time is 20–25 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can soften the pastry. This tart is best enjoyed fresh or within a day of baking.

Variations and Customizations

Rosemary Cranberry Tart

Add chopped rosemary to the cranberry mixture for an herby, aromatic touch.

Almond Brie Tart

Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking for crunch and nuttiness.

Maple Cranberry Version

Swap honey with maple syrup for deeper sweetness.

Spiced Holiday Tart

Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to the cranberry mixture for festive warmth.

Fig and Brie Option

Replace cranberries with fig jam for a sweeter, earthy take on the tart.

Savory Cranberry Caramelized Onion Mix

Combine cranberries with caramelized onions for a sweet-savory blend.

Brie and Apple Tart

Layer thin apple slices under the cranberries for extra texture and flavor.

Goat Cheese Swap

Mix goat cheese with Brie for tangier richness.

Puff Pastry Bites

Make mini individual tarts using cut pastry squares for party appetizers.

Nut-Free Alternative

Simply omit nuts from any variation to keep the tart nut-free.

FAQs

Do I need to remove the rind from the Brie?

No, the rind is edible and softens as the tart bakes.

Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?

Yes, though homemade offers better texture and flavor.

Can I prepare the tart ahead of time?

You can prep components ahead, but bake just before serving.

Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?

Yes, but layer multiple sheets with butter to achieve crispness.

Does almond milk brown pastry well?

Yes, I’ve used it before and it works effectively.

Can I make this tart without sugar?

Honey or maple syrup can sweeten the cranberries naturally.

Should the Brie be chilled or room temperature?

Either works, but chilled Brie is easier to slice.

Can I add nuts to the topping?

Absolutely—walnuts or almonds add excellent crunch.

How do I prevent soggy pastry?

Keep the cranberry mixture thick and avoid overfilling.

Can this be served cold?

It can, but warm or room temperature offers the best texture.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Brie Tart delivers elegance, ease, and unforgettable flavor in every bite. With its combination of creamy cheese, tangy cranberries, and flaky pastry, it’s the perfect recipe for holidays, gatherings, or whenever you want a dish that feels special without requiring complex steps. Its versatility and impressive presentation make it a standout addition to your cooking repertoire.

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