Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme

Indulge in the Flavor of Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme

Every once in a while, you come across a recipe that feels like the ultimate celebration of flavors, and this Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme is just that. With the creamy richness of Brie mingling with the tart sweetness of cranberry and the savory crunch of pancetta, it’s a dish that can effortlessly elevate any occasion, from intimate dinners to festive gatherings. I remember the first time I made this tart; it was a chilly fall evening, and the aroma wafting through my kitchen was enough to make anyone hungry. This recipe is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making it a perfect centerpiece for your table!

Top Reasons to Try This Dish

What sets this Cranberry Brie Tart apart? For starters, it’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures, showcasing the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and creamy. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The flaky puff pastry base is a dream, while the warm, melted Brie creates a decadent layer that pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart cranberry sauce and crispy pancetta.

“Every bite of this tart is a little piece of heaven! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience—my guests were raving about it!” – A happy home chef

Preparing Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme

Ready to get started? This simple yet impressive dish requires minimal fuss, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. Let me walk you through the easy steps. You’ll be surprised by how quickly you can create this gourmet tart right in your own kitchen!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry until smooth and then place it on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Crisp up some pancetta in a skillet—this adds a rich, savory touch to your tart.
4. Layer on the cranberry sauce and Brie, then sprinkle with crispy pancetta and fresh thyme.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry and brush with egg wash for that beautiful golden finish.
6. Bake to perfection! Wait until it’s golden and flaky, and then enjoy immediate applause from your guests.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

To create this delicious tart, gather the following 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

Feel free to experiment with the cranberry sauce—homemade brings an extra touch, but store-bought works in a pinch!

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and transfer it to the prepared sheet.
4. In a medium skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Drain excess grease on paper towels.
5. Spread your cranberry sauce evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Top with Brie slices, crispy pancetta, and sprinkle with fresh thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Fold the edges over the filling to create a rustic look, then brush with beaten egg.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and flaky.
9. Garnish with thyme sprigs once out of the oven, letting it cool slightly before slicing.

What to Serve It With

This Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme is versatile when it comes to pairing! It serves beautifully as an appetizer or a main dish alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Consider serving it with:

• A crisp mixed green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts for a seasonal touch.
• A charcuterie board with assorted cheeses and meats for an elevated grazing experience.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), you can store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tart back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—this keeps the pastry crisp.

Pro Chef Tips

• Puff Pastry Magic: Always handle the puff pastry gently to avoid deflating it; light kneading can help if you need to patch any spots.
• Crispy Cheese: If you love extra crispy cheese edges, try broiling the tart for the last minute or two—just watch closely!
• Be Creative: Feel free to incorporate other herbs like rosemary or sage, or even mix in nuts for a delightful crunch.

Flavor Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few creative twists you might enjoy:

• Substitute the pancetta with bacon or prosciutto for different flavor profiles.
• Add a layer of thinly sliced apples for a sweet crunch.
• Incorporate fig jam in place of cranberry sauce for a more sophisticated taste.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make this tart?

From start to finish, this tart takes about 45 minutes, including prep and baking time.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Consider substituting Brie with Camembert or goat cheese for varied flavor.

Is it safe to store leftovers?

Yes, just ensure they are kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat before serving.

This Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme is a delightful way to impress your family and friends while delighting your palate. Give it a whirl, and you might just have a new favorite recipe in your collection!

Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Omnivore

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Description

A delightful tart featuring creamy Brie, tart cranberry sauce, and crispy pancetta, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and transfer it to the prepared sheet.
4. In a medium skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Drain excess grease on paper towels.
5. Spread your cranberry sauce evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Top with Brie slices, crispy pancetta, and sprinkle with fresh thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Fold the edges over the filling to create a rustic look, then brush with beaten egg.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and flaky.
9. Garnish with thyme sprigs once out of the oven, letting it cool slightly before slicing.

Notes

This tart works beautifully as an appetizer or a main dish. Serve with a mixed green salad or roasted vegetables.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Cranberry, Brie, Tart, Pancetta, Thyme, Appetizer