Name: Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 package Crescent Roll Dough (Can substitute with puff pastry); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (May use salted butter with reduced salt); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (White sugar can work in a pinch); 1 teaspoon Maple Extract (Real maple syrup can be used with adjustment); 2 tablespoons Pineapple Juice (Must be well-drained); 1 wheel Brie (Substitute with Camembert or goat cheese if needed); 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries (Raisins can be used as a substitute); 1/2 cup Crushed Pineapple (Ensure well-drained to avoid excess moisture); 1/4 cup Pecans (Walnuts or shelled pistachios can also be used)

As I gently pulled the golden, flaky layers apart, an enchanting aroma wafted through my kitchen—sweet and savory mingling in perfect harmony. This Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath is not just a recipe; it’s an experience, one that transforms any gathering into a festive celebration. With easy assembly, you’ll impress guests without the stress, making it an undeniable crowd-pleaser at holiday parties or even cozy family dinners. The luscious brie, woven with tangy cranberries and sweet crushed pineapple, is enveloped in buttery crescent rolls, then brushed with a maple glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch. It’s comfort food elevated, and I can’t wait to share how you can whip this up effortlessly. Curiosity bubbling? Let’s dive into this delightful creation!

Why is this wreath a must-try?

Easy assembly: This Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath requires minimal preparation, making it perfect even for novice cooks.
Crowd-pleaser: Its unique combination of flavors and textures will have everyone raving.
Versatile: Try different cheeses or nuts to suit your taste! You can experiment with substitutions like Camembert or goat cheese for a personalized touch.
Festive charm: Serve it up at your holiday gatherings for a stunning centerpiece that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Make-ahead option: Assemble ahead of time and bake just before serving to keep things stress-free! Your guests will be impressed with this easy yet elegant dish.

Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath Ingredients

For the Dough
• Crescent Roll Dough – This buttery, flaky base holds everything together; you can substitute with puff pastry for a lighter option.

For the Glaze
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the dish; feel free to use salted butter but reduce added salt.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth; white sugar can work in a pinch.
• Maple Extract – Infuses the glaze with cozy aromas; real maple syrup adds a richer flavor but adjust liquid amount accordingly.
• Pineapple Juice – Brightens the glaze and adds tartness; make sure it’s well-drained to avoid sogginess.

For the Filling
• Brie – Melts beautifully into a creamy filling; substitutes like Camembert or goat cheese can be used if brie is unavailable.
• Dried Cranberries – Add chewiness and tartness; raisins can be swapped in if preferred.
• Crushed Pineapple – Offers a juicy texture that balances the richness; ensure it’s drained well to prevent excess moisture.
• Pecans – Provide a delightful crunch; walnuts or shelled pistachios make great alternatives.

This Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath is an elevated, scrumptious holiday appetizer that’s sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your wreath bakes evenly and achieves that delightful golden color. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Next, open your crescent roll dough and carefully separate it into individual triangles. Arrange these dough pieces in a sunburst pattern around a small oven-safe bowl positioned in the center of the lined baking sheet. Overlapping the triangles slightly creates a beautiful wreath shape, giving it an appealing presentation for your appetizer.

Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until fully liquefied. Stir in the brown sugar, whisking until well combined, and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture turns lightly browned. Once ready, remove the saucepan from heat and fold in the maple extract and pineapple juice, mixing until smooth and fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a separate medium bowl, combine the sliced brie, dried cranberries, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans. To enhance the flavor, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of the prepared glaze and stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. The sweet and savory filling is now ready to be tucked into your dough wreath.

Step 5: Assemble the Wreath
Spoon the creamy filling mixture into the center of the crescent roll dough. Fold the triangles over the filling towards the center to enclose it, tucking the ends underneath to secure the wreath shape. This encasement of flaky dough around the luscious filling will create the perfect visual and flavor contrast.

Step 6: Brush and Bake
Using a pastry brush, generously apply the remaining glaze over the top of your assembled Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath. Once evenly coated, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it, as baking times may vary based on your oven.

Step 7: Serve Warm
Once your wreath is perfectly baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This brief resting period will help the filling set slightly. Serve your Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath warm, and watch as your guests delight in this festive and flavorful appetizer, perfect for any holiday gathering.

Storage Tips for Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to retain the flaky texture.

Freezer: If you want to store it longer, freeze the unbaked assembled wreath, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 10-15 minutes. This will help restore its delightful, gooey filling and crispy exterior.

Room Temperature: If the wreath needs to sit out during serving, keep it covered for up to 2 hours at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time for your festive gatherings! You can assemble the entire wreath, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain quality, be sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent sogginess, and keep the dough chilled until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, simply brush the top with the glaze and bake as directed. This approach allows you to enjoy the delightful aroma and flavors right from the oven, ensuring your appetizer is just as delicious and impressive as if you made it fresh on the day of your event!

What to Serve with Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath

Elevate your holiday gathering with a delightful spread that complements this sweet-savory masterpiece beautifully.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery, they add a comforting contrast to the wreath’s flaky texture and vibrant flavors.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm and fragrant, this drink enhances the festive spirit, pairing perfectly with the sweet notes of cranberries and pineapple.
Savory Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized and seasoned, these veggies provide a delightful crunch and balance the creaminess of the brie.

Indulge in roasted Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra zing. Their crispy edges offer a lovely textural contrast to the wreath.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Bright and sweet, they echo the luscious flavors of the Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath while adding vibrant color to your table.
Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest: This tart-sweet accompaniment enhances the wreath’s filling while providing a refreshing, zesty bite.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip fresh fruits or marshmallows for a sweet finish to your meal. The richness of chocolate is the perfect ending after enjoying the savory appetizer.
Herbed White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine will brighten the palate and complement the creamy brie while enhancing the sweet and savory balance of flavors.

Prepare a charcuterie board for variety, adding assorted cheeses, nuts, and fresh fruits. This allows guests to nibble and enjoy alongside the wreath.

Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize your Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Dough Swap: Use honey butter crescent rolls for a sweeter twist that enhances the overall flavor and aroma.
Cheese Alternatives: Try Camembert or goat cheese for a unique spin; each will bring its own delicious character to the dish.
Nutty Variations: Swap out pecans for walnuts or shelled pistachios to offer different textures and flavor profiles, adding a bit more crunch!
Fruity Additions: Incorporate fresh diced apples or pears into the filling for a delightful crunch and additional sweetness.
Savory Infusion: Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor profile, giving your wreath a fragrant, savory dimension.
Protein Boost: Mix in small pieces of smoked ham or cooked bacon to the filling for an extra savory protein kick everyone will love.
Heat it Up: Sprinkle in a few crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick; it’s a surprising yet delightful addition to warm flavors!
Sweet Glaze Alternatives: Drizzle with honey or agave syrup for a different type of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the brie and cranberries.

To explore more delightful variations, feel free to try out some interesting cheese substitutions that can transform your wreath into a unique masterpiece! Enjoy experimenting!

Expert Tips for Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath

Dough Management: Keep your crescent roll dough chilled before shaping. This makes handling easier and helps maintain its flaky texture during baking.
Proper Drainage: Make sure to thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple to avoid a soggy filling. Excess moisture can make your wreath lose its delicious crunch.
Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses or nuts! Try using Camembert or pistachios for unique flavor profiles in your Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath.
Gorgeous Glaze: Brush the top of the wreath generously with the maple-infused glaze before baking. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful golden color.
Make Ahead: To ease your hosting duties, assemble the wreath up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge and bake just before serving for fresh, warm goodness.

Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting your pineapple, look for a fruit that is slightly soft to the touch and has a sweet, fragrant aroma. For cranberries, choose firm, plump berries without any blemishes. The brie should have a nice, creamy consistency without any dark spots, indicating it’s fresh.

How should I store leftovers of the Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy them, reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore the flaky texture and gooey filling!

Can I freeze the Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked assembled wreath! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, unwrap and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

What should I do if my dough is hard to work with?
If your crescent roll dough is hard to manage, it’s likely too warm. Chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, as this will make it easier to handle and shape. Keeping the dough cold helps maintain its flaky texture and prevents it from sticking to your hands or the work surface.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Very! Since this wreath contains ingredients like cheese and nuts, it’s best to keep it away from pets as these can be harmful to them. Additionally, if you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, consider offering variations such as nut-free options or checking for allergies related to dairy or gluten. Always consult with your guests if you’re uncertain!

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Pineapple Cranberry Brie Wreath?
The more the merrier! You can substitute the brie with Camembert or goat cheese for varied flavors, and use walnuts or shelled pistachios if pecans are not your thing. Additionally, if you prefer a lighter option, feel free to swap the crescent roll dough for puff pastry. Just remember to adjust baking times accordingly!