Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme Recipe

Introduction

This Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme combines creamy Brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and crispy pancetta on a flaky puff pastry base. It’s an elegant yet easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 4 ounces pancetta, diced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases. Place the pastry on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Step 3: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced pancetta until crispy. Remove from heat and drain on paper towels.
4. Step 4: Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Step 5: Layer the sliced Brie over the cranberry sauce, then sprinkle the crispy pancetta and fresh thyme leaves on top. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Step 6: Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a rustic border. Brush the edges with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
7. Step 7: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and flaky.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use a good quality cranberry sauce or make your own for the best flavor.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute the pancetta with toasted walnuts or almonds.
• Try adding a sprinkle of chopped rosemary along with thyme for an extra layer of herbal aroma.
• Ensure the puff pastry is well chilled before rolling to prevent sticking and tearing.

Storage

Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) to keep the pastry crisp. This tart is best enjoyed fresh but can be served at room temperature as well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry for this tart?

Yes, frozen puff pastry works well. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before rolling it out to prevent cracking.

Is it possible to prepare this tart ahead of time?

You can assemble the tart up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a few hours. Brush with egg wash and bake just before serving to maintain the pastry’s flakiness.

Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 69 reviews

This Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme combines flaky puff pastry with creamy Brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and crispy pancetta, all accented by fresh thyme. It’s a perfect appetizer or elegant snack ideal for holiday gatherings or special occasions.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Filling

• 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 4 ounces pancetta, diced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Finishing

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish

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 easy cleanup.
2. Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases, then transfer it to the lined baking sheet.
3. Cook Pancetta: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced pancetta until it becomes crispy. Remove from heat and drain excess fat by placing on paper towels.
4. Assemble Tart: Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Layer the sliced Brie over the cranberry sauce, then sprinkle the crispy pancetta and fresh thyme leaves on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Create Rustic Border: Fold the edges of the puff pastry up and over the filling to form a rustic border. Brush the exposed pastry edges with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish when baked.
6. Bake Tart: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed, golden, and flaky.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the tart from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving to enhance flavor and texture.

Notes

• Ensure the puff pastry is properly thawed but still cold for best handling and flakiness.
• You can substitute pancetta with bacon if desired, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Use a sharp knife to slice the tart for cleaner cuts and better presentation.
• Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best freshness.
• Reheat in a low oven to retain pastry crispiness instead of microwaving.

Keywords: Cranberry Brie Tart, Puff Pastry Tart, Cranberry Appetizer, Holiday Appetizer, Brie Cheese Tart, Pancetta Tart, Thyme Tart