Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels & Festive Rosemary Trees

If you’re searching for a festive appetizer that combines elegance with a burst of vibrant flavors, then the Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels & Festive Rosemary Trees are an absolute must-try. These golden brie tartlets are a dazzling mix of flaky puff pastry, creamy melted brie, tangy whole-berry cranberry sauce, and crunchy pistachios crowned with rosemary sprigs that resemble tiny holiday trees. They’re as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate, making them perfect for any seasonal gathering, and your guests will be raving about this beautiful blend of sweet, savory, and herbal notes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of tastes, colors, and textures in your Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels & Festive Rosemary Trees. Every component comes together to build a dish that’s both impressive and approachable.

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: This flaky, buttery base is the star carrier of all the delicious toppings.
• 8 oz brie cheese: Creamy and rich, it melts beautifully under the cranberry jewels.
• 1 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce: Adds a vibrant pop of color and a sweet-tart zing.
• 2 tbsp honey (optional): A gentle drizzle for subtle sweetness that complements the brie.
• 2 tbsp finely chopped pistachios: For a crunchy texture and a lovely green contrast.
• Fresh rosemary sprigs: Trimmed into mini “tree” shapes to add festive flair and fragrant herbal notes.
• 1 egg, beaten: For brushing the pastry to achieve that irresistible golden sheen.
• Flour for dusting: Keeps your workspace smooth and prevents sticking when rolling the dough.
• Pinch of flaky sea salt: Enhances all the flavors with a final savory touch.

How to Make Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels & Festive Rosemary Trees

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Puff Pastry

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly dust your clean surface with flour and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to about one-eighth of an inch thickness. This gentle roll helps smoothen and relax the dough, making it easier to handle and giving your tartlets the perfect flaky crust.

Step 2: Cut and Shape the Tartlet Bases

Cut the pastry into 12 even squares, roughly 3 inches by 3 inches. Press each square into the wells of a mini muffin tin, letting the edges rise a bit to create charming little crust rims that puff beautifully in the oven. This step is where the rustic elegance begins to shine.

Step 3: Add the Brie Cubes

Slice the brie into cubes that fit nicely within each pastry cup. Whether you leave the rind on or off, these creamy morsels will become the luscious center of each tartlet after baking.

Step 4: Spoon on the Cranberry Jewels

Generously top each brie cube with whole-berry cranberry sauce, allowing the jewel-like berries to cascade decadent sweetness and tartness over the melty cheese. This is the signature flourish that makes the Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels & Festive Rosemary Trees so special.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

Carefully paint the exposed pastry edges with the beaten egg. This crucial step will give your tartlets a glossy, golden finish that makes them absolutely irresistible to the eye.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. Watch closely as the pastry puffs and turns a deep golden brown, and the brie melts invitingly beneath the cranberry topping. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure holiday magic.

Step 7: Garnish and Finish

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped pistachios on each tartlet for a delightful crunch. Then, add a rosemary sprig upright in the center, creating those charming festive trees that make this appetizer a standout. Optional honey drizzle and a light pinch of flaky sea salt are the perfect final notes to elevate this dish.

How to Serve Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels & Festive Rosemary Trees

Garnishes

Fresh rosemary sprigs are not only visually stunning but they also impart a subtle pine-like fragrance that complements the creamy brie and tart cranberry sauce perfectly. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt and chopped pistachios add texture and highlight the sweet-savory harmony.

Side Dishes

Pair these tartlets with a crisp green salad lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of roasted nuts to balance the richness. They’re also perfect alongside a glass of sparkling wine or a bold red, creating an ensemble that’s festive and delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the tartlets on a rustic wooden board or a festive platter sprinkled with extra rosemary sprigs and cranberries for that holiday wow factor. You can also place them around a centerpiece candle to create a warm, inviting vibe that draws everyone in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels & Festive Rosemary Trees, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pastry may lose some crispness, but gently reheating restores much of its charm.

Freezing

These tartlets freeze beautifully if you want to prepare ahead. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, place tartlets on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?

Absolutely! Soft cheeses like camembert or even a mild goat cheese would work well, but brie melts exceptionally and complements the cranberry so beautifully.

Is fresh rosemary necessary for the “festive trees”?

Fresh rosemary provides the classic pine aroma and looks fantastic when trimmed, but if unavailable, you can use small sprigs of thyme or sage for a creative twist.

Can I make the tartlets vegan?

Yes, by using vegan puff pastry, a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well, and skipping the egg wash or substituting it with a plant milk wash, you can create a lovely vegan version.

What is the best way to ensure puff pastry doesn’t get soggy?

Make sure to preheat the oven fully and bake the tartlets on a muffin tin to promote even air circulation, which keeps the base flaky and crisp.

Can I prepare these tartlets without a mini muffin tin?

You can, by shaping the puff pastry squares on a baking sheet and slightly folding the edges up, but the tin helps maintain an even shape and allows the pastry to puff beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way these Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels & Festive Rosemary Trees bring warmth, color, and joy to the table. They strike the perfect balance of flavors and look stunning at any holiday gathering. If you want a recipe that dazzles guests and warms hearts, these tartlets are a delicious celebration in every bite. Give them a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

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