Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Stars
Ingredients:
1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed according to package instructions)
1 small wheel of Brie cheese
1/2 cup of cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup of chopped fresh cranberries
1/4 cup of chopped pecans (optional)
1 sprig of fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Coarse sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prep the Oven and Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick.
- Create the Stars: Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out star shapes from the puff pastry. Place half of the stars on a parchment-lined baking sheet. These will be the bases.
- Add the Toppings: On each star base, place a small slice of Brie (ensure it’s small enough to leave a border of pastry around the edge). Top the Brie with a teaspoon of cranberry sauce, a few pieces of chopped fresh cranberries, and a sprinkle of pecans if you’re using them.
- Top Layer and Seal: Take the remaining pastry stars and place them on top of your assembled stars. Use the tines of a fork to press the edges together, sealing in the Brie and cranberry sauce.
- Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg and then lightly brush the top of each pastry star with the egg wash. This will give your stars a lovely golden color.
- Add Rosemary and Salt: Sprinkle the chopped rosemary on top of each star and add a tiny pinch of coarse sea salt if desired, to enhance the flavors.
- Bake: Place your tray of stars in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry has risen and turned a beautiful golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the stars to cool on the tray for a few minutes before moving them to a serving platter. These are best enjoyed warm, but are also delicious at room temperature.
- Enjoy the Festivities: Serve your Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Stars at your Christmas party and watch them disappear quickly! Their festive appearance and delightful combination of sweet-tart cranberry with creamy Brie make these treats a holiday hit!