Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme Recipe
This Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme is a delightful appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry topped with creamy Brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, crispy pancetta, and fragrant fresh thyme. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, this tart combines sweet, savory, and herbal flavors baked to golden perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Ingredients
Pastry and Cheese
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
Fillings and Toppings
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 ounces pancetta, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
- 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.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Lightly flour a surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth out any creases. Transfer the pastry onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Cook Pancetta: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced pancetta until it becomes crispy. Remove the pancetta from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess fat.
- Assemble Tart: Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Layer the sliced Brie cheese over the cranberry sauce, then sprinkle the crispy pancetta and fresh thyme leaves on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold Edges and Apply Egg Wash: Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a rustic border. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to give a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Bake Tart: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
- 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.
Notes
- Use store-bought cranberry sauce for a quick preparation or homemade for a fresher taste.
- For a vegetarian version, omit pancetta or substitute with smoked mushrooms.
- Brush egg wash carefully to avoid it dripping onto the tart filling to prevent burning.
- Let the tart cool slightly before slicing to avoid cheese spilling out.
- Serve warm for the best flavor combination and texture.
