Ready for a little bite of buttery, melty bliss? These Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Twists are like a warm hug from the oven—flaky, festive, and fabulous with just five minutes of hands-on time! Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch, popping open some bubbly with friends, or just treating yourself to something a little fancy (but not fussy), this is the go-to recipe that’s always a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one’s close to my heart because it reminds me of holiday mornings when the kitchen smells like excitement and something cheesy is always melting in the oven. These twists take that joy and make it effortless. Plus, they’re fun to make—and even more fun to eat!
- Elegant but easy: Store-bought puff pastry makes this ultra simple but oh-so-fancy looking.
- Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for prepping the day before a party or holiday brunch.
- Sweet + savory magic: The combo of creamy Brie and tart cranberry is straight-up irresistible.
- Customize away: Add herbs, nuts, or even swap in different jams to make it yours!
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole-berry or jellied)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- Pinch of salt
Pro Tips
- A sprinkle of chopped fresh rosemary or thyme adds an herby layer of flavor.
- Don’t toss the rind! You can leave a little on for extra flavor if you like earthy notes.
- Want a nutty crunch? Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts before twisting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each puff pastry sheet out to about 12×9 inches. If pre-rolled, you can use them as is.
- Spread a ½-inch wide strip of cranberry sauce down the center of each sheet. Layer Brie slices over the cranberry. Sprinkle with orange zest and drizzle honey, if using.
- Use a sharp knife to cut 1-inch strips along both sides of the filling lengthwise, stopping about 1 inch from the center.
- Working from the top down, gently twist each strip toward the center one at a time, alternating left and right sides to create a braided or twisted look.
- Transfer each twist to the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart.
- Whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon water to make the egg wash. Brush over each pastry twist. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and garnish with seeds or herbs if desired.
- Bake 12–15 minutes, rotating the pan halfway, until golden brown and puffed with bubbling Brie.
- Cool 5–7 minutes on the pan before serving. Serve warm or at room temp with extra cranberry sauce on the side.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Chill the assembled pastries in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before baking for neater twists.
- Use a ruler or bench scraper for cleaner, more even strips.
- Make sure your brie slices are uniformly thin to avoid overstuffing the strips.
- Wrap raw twists tightly and freeze for future easy appetizers—just bake directly from frozen!
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Berry swap: Use raspberry or fig jam instead of cranberry for a different flavor profile.
- Savory-herb twist: Add rosemary or thyme inside and on top for a more savory bite.
- Nutty crunch: Add finely chopped walnuts or pecans over the filling.
- Party platter: Serve mini twists alongside your favorite cheeses and cured meats.
- Festive pairing: A glass of Prosecco or dry Riesling pairs beautifully with these bites.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Just brush with egg wash right before baking.
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Assemble and freeze unbaked. Place directly into the oven from frozen and add about 2–3 minutes to the bake time.
What’s the best puff pastry brand to use?
I love using all-butter puff pastry like Dufour for an ultra-flaky, rich finish—but any store-bought option works!
What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?
Try raspberry jam or even a chutney! The sweet-tart balance with Brie is super flexible.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Roll out puff pastry to 12×9 inches. Spread cranberry sauce and brie down the center. Add optional zest and honey.
- Cut strips down the sides, twist each toward the center. Transfer to sheet.
- Brush with egg wash, add desired garnishes, bake 12–15 minutes until golden.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition: ~140 calories per twist
Did you try these twists? I’d love to hear how they turned out! Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @thekitchensaid—nothing makes my day like seeing your creations. 💛
