Baked Cranberry Brie Puff (Printable Version)

Golden puff pastry encases creamy brie topped with simmered cranberries, perfect for sharing or entertaining.

# Ingredients Required:

→ Dried Fruits and Flavorings

01 - 227 g dried cranberries
02 - 113 g dried cherries
03 - 240 ml water
04 - 1 teaspoon orange zest
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Cheese and Pastry

06 - 1 wheel Brie cheese (375 g; 8 to 14 ounces)
07 - 1 sheet thawed puff pastry
08 - 30 g all-purpose flour, for dusting
09 - 1 egg

→ Accompaniments

10 - French bread slices, crackers, sliced apples, sliced pears or grapes (for serving)

# Guide to Cooking:

01 - In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine dried cranberries, dried cherries, and water ensuring the fruit is covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Add orange zest and vanilla extract; simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and cool for 10 minutes.
02 - Line a baking sheet with a non-stick mat, parchment paper, or foil. Preheat the oven to 204°C (400°F).
03 - Dust your work surface and rolling pin lightly with flour. Gently unroll the puff pastry sheet and roll to roughly 28 x 28 cm (11 x 11 inches) to slightly thin and remove folding creases. Repair any tears by wetting fingers and pinching dough together.
04 - Place the Brie wheel in the center of the rolled pastry and top with the cooled cranberry mixture. Fold the corners over the cheese to form a neat package. Trim excess pastry if needed, reserving scraps for decoration.
05 - Combine egg and one tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Using reserved pastry scraps, cut decorative shapes with cookie cutters if desired. Brush decorations lightly with egg wash, adhere to the package, then brush entire package evenly.
06 - Refrigerate the wrapped Brie package for at least 15 minutes to firm up.
07 - Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
08 - Accompany with French bread slices, crackers, sliced apples, pears, or grapes as desired.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Allowing the Brie to rest after baking prevents the cheese from oozing out excessively when cut.