Elevate your holiday gatherings with these delightful Cranberry Pistachio Stuffed Mini Puff Pastry Wreaths, an easy holiday appetizer that combines the flaky goodness of puff pastry with the festive flavours of cranberry pistachio. These miniature wreaths are not only visually stunning but also offer a burst of savoury and sweet notes, making them the perfect addition to your holiday table. This puff pastry wreath recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a new holiday tradition.
Introduction to Puff Pastry Wreaths
What is a Puff Pastry Wreath?
A puff pastry wreath is a visually appealing and delicious appetizer or dessert made from buttery puff pastry shaped into a circle or wreath shape. The puff pastry sheet, known for its light and flaky layers, is often filled with a variety of ingredients, both savoury and sweet. In this recipe, we transform a simple puff into a festive cranberry pistachio creation, combining the textures and flavours for a truly memorable holiday treat.
Prep:45mins
Bake:32 to 36 mins
Total:5 hrs 45 mins
Health Benefits of Cranberries and Pistachios
1. Start with Dried Cranberries
These little red gems are rich in antioxidants and may help support urinary tract health. Adding them to your pastry gives a sweet-tart flavour and a nutritious boost.
2. Add Crunchy Pistachios
Pistachios provide healthy fats, plant-based protein, and fiber. They add texture, flavour, and a dose of nutrients to your festive wreaths.
3. Combine the Two for a Nutritious Filling
Mixing dried cranberries and pistachios creates a balanced filling that’s both delicious and beneficial for overall wellness.
4. Wrap the Mixture in Buttery Puff Pastry
Even though puff pastry is indulgent, the cranberry–pistachio combo brings a healthier touch to each bite, making the treat feel less guilty.
5. Enjoy a Festive Snack with Benefits
Bake, serve, and enjoy knowing that your holiday pastry wreath includes ingredients that support health while still delivering irresistible flavour.
Overview of Ingredients
- Puff Pastry Sheet
Forms the base of the wreaths and bakes into a beautifully flaky, golden-brown texture. - Dried Cranberries
Add sweetness and a tangy burst of flavor to the filling. - Chopped Pistachios
Provide crunch, color, and a festive nutty element. - Brie Cheese
Creates a creamy, savory center that pairs perfectly with the sweet cranberries. - Cranberry Sauce
Adds extra sweetness and moisture, enhancing the flavor of the brie. - Egg Wash
Brushed over the pastry to help achieve a shiny, perfectly golden-brown finish. - Extra Chopped Pistachios (for Garnish)
Sprinkled on top after baking for added texture and a beautiful, festive look.
Ingredients List
To create these delightful mini puff pastry wreaths, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Specifically, you should prepare the following:
One sheet of puff pastry
About 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce or cranberry jam
1/2 cup of chopped pistachios
4 ounces of brie cheese (cut into small pieces)
One egg (for the egg wash)
A sprinkle of extra chopped pistachios for garnish
Ensure your ingredients are fresh and ready to create this holiday cheese appetizer. Using high-quality components guarantees a delicious outcome for your festive cranberry pistachio treat.
Step-by-Step Puff Pastry Recipe
1.Here’s how to make this delicious treat. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, follow these steps to prepare the puff pastry:
2.Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and spread the cranberry sauce evenly over it, leaving a small border.
3.Sprinkle the chopped pistachios and brie cheese over the cranberry sauce.
4.Gently roll the puff pastry sheet into a log and slice it into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
5.Arrange the rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a wreath shape, slightly overlapping each other.
6.Brush with egg wash for a golden brown finish.
7.Finally, bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Garnish with additional chopped pistachios after baking, refrigerate, and serve.
Tips for Shaping the Wreath
Creating the perfect wreath shape is essential for the visual appeal of this appetizer. When arranging the puff pastry rounds on the baking sheet, ensure they slightly overlap to form a continuous circle. Leave a small space in the center of the wreath. Don’t overfill the puff pastry with the cranberry pistachio and brie mixture, as this can cause it to ooze out during baking. For mini wreaths, consider using smaller pastry cutters to create individual wreath shapes. This easy holiday appetizer will add flair to your gathering. The final result will be a perfect puff pastry wreath filled with sweet cranberry sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing Options with Holiday Drinks
To enhance your holiday appetizer experience, consider pairing your cranberry pistachio puff pastry wreath with complementary beverages. A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the buttery puff pastry and rich brie cheese. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling cranberry juice or cranberry orange infused water provides a festive and refreshing contrast to the savoury and sweet flavours of the cranberry pistachio filling. These pairings elevate the festive holiday atmosphere.
Presenting Your Puff Pastry Wreath
The presentation of your cranberry pistachio puff pastry wreath can greatly enhance its appeal. Arrange the mini wreaths on a decorative platter, such as a wooden cheese board or a festive serving dish. Garnish with fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs, or additional chopped pistachios to add color and texture. For an extra touch, consider placing a small bowl of cranberry jam or brie cheese alongside the wreath for dipping. The presentation is key to creating a visually stunning and delicious holiday appetizer. Using a festive plate will make the savory pastry wreath filled with sweet cranberry sauce stand out.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to best handle leftover cranberry pistachio puff pastry wreaths. To maintain their quality, follow these reheating suggestions:
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through and the puff pastry is crisp.
Alternatively, you can reheat them in a microwave, although the puff pastry may not be as crispy.
It’s best to consume the wreaths within 2-3 days for optimal flavour and texture. Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the buttery puff pastry. When ready to serve, place your cheese wreath appetizer on the baking sheet and into the preheated oven.
Final Thoughts on Festive Appetizers
In conclusion, these cranberry pistachio stuffed mini puff pastry wreaths are a delightful and festive addition to any holiday gathering. The combination of buttery puff pastry, sweet cranberry, crunchy pistachios, and savory brie cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavours that will tantalize your taste buds. This easy holiday appetizer is sure to become a new tradition, bringing joy and deliciousness to your celebrations. Serve this amazing cheese wreath with your holiday meals.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per mini wreath) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 165–185 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 16–18 g |
| Protein | 3–4 g |
| Fat | 10–12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4–5 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sugar | 6–8 g |
| Sodium | 110–150 mg |
| Cholesterol | 20–25 mg |