If you’re seeking a stunning appetizer that brings together the smoky allure of bacon, the creamy indulgence of Brie, and the bright zing of cranberry compote, then this Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath with Cranberry Compote Recipe is about to become your new favorite showstopper. It’s beautifully golden, irresistibly flaky, and perfectly festive — ideal for gatherings, parties, or even a cozy night when you want something extraordinary with minimal fuss. Trust me, every bite bursts with layers of flavor and texture that will have your taste buds dancing happily.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this bacon Brie crescent wreath lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s creating the flaky dough base, the creamy bacon-Brie filling, or the tangy cranberry compote that ties it all together with a vibrant pop of color and flavor.
- Crescent roll dough: The buttery, flaky foundation that crisps beautifully while holding the filling snugly.
- Brie cheese: Provides a rich, creamy melt that complements the smoky bacon impeccably.
- Thick-cut bacon: Adds irresistible smokiness and crunch to every bite.
- Eggs: Used for brushing the dough to give it a golden, shiny finish.
- Flaky sea salt: Amplifies the flavors with subtle bursts of saltiness and elegant crunch.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right touch of spice and depth.
- Fresh rosemary: A fragrant herb that adds a lovely piney freshness to the filling.
- Fresh cranberries: The star ingredient for the compote, bringing tang and color.
- Light brown sugar: Sweetens the compote with warm caramel notes.
- Water: The base of the compote’s simmering liquid.
- Orange zest and juice: Brightens the compote with citrusy brightness and complexity.
How to Make Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath with Cranberry Compote Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Compote
Start by making that luscious cranberry compote that will perfectly balance the richness of the wreath. Simmer fresh cranberries with light brown sugar and water on medium heat, stirring occasionally until the cranberries burst in about 10 minutes. Then add the orange zest and juice for a fresh, citrusy lift, letting the mix thicken for another 5 to 7 minutes. Set it aside and let it cool—this tangy compote is the perfect dip to cuddle up with the savory wreath.
Step 2: Form the Crescent Dough Ring
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a large baking sheet and arrange it in a circle, making sure the wide ends face outward. Leave a generous space in the middle — this will cradle the yummy filling and give your wreath its iconic shape. This step is all about setting the stage for those flavors to shine while keeping presentation simple and elegant.
Step 3: Assemble the Filling
In a bowl, mix together cubed Brie, crumbled, cooked bacon, and chopped fresh rosemary. This combination is where the magic happens — creamy cheesiness, savory warmth, and herbal brightness all mingle beautifully. Spoon the mixture evenly over the dough ring, then fold the edges over to partially cover the filling, creating that perfect wreath look.
Step 4: Brush and Season the Wreath
Using the beaten eggs, brush the top of the dough to develop a gorgeous golden brown crust once baked. Then sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the surface, unlocking an extra layer of crunch and flavor that makes this wreath utterly irresistible.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 to 18 minutes, watching carefully until the wreath puffs up and turns a gorgeous golden hue. The smell alone will make it tough to wait! Once baked, let it rest for a few minutes to firm up slightly before serving, ensuring every slice holds its delicious filling without a fuss.
How to Serve Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath with Cranberry Compote Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped rosemary or a handful of fresh cranberries around the plate adds a festive, fresh touch. For a hint of brightness, a few twists of orange zest sprinkled over the wreath or compote can lift the presentation and flavor elegantly.
Side Dishes
This Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath with Cranberry Compote Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables to balance out its richness. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or some honey-glazed carrots would complement it beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this wreath into a centerpiece by serving it whole on a decorative platter surrounded by small bowls of the cranberry compote. Guests can pull their pieces and dip as they please, making it everyone-friendly and interactive. For parties, provide small plates and napkins so everyone can enjoy the savory and sweet combo with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover wreath tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, then store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and can be enjoyed cold or reheated gently.
Freezing
If you want to save the wreath for later, freeze it after baking by wrapping it tightly in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to bring back that flaky goodness without drying it out. You can also microwave it briefly, but the oven method preserves crispness much better.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Brie?
Absolutely! While Brie has a creamy, melting quality that works wonderfully, you can try Camembert or even a mild cream cheese for a different but still delicious result.
Is it possible to make the cranberry compote ahead of time?
Yes, the cranberry compote can be made a day or two ahead and kept chilled in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld even more deeply and makes assembly quicker on the day you plan to serve.
Can I prepare this wreath for a large party?
The recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to serve guests at a larger gathering. Just bake multiple wreaths or use larger baking sheets to accommodate the size.
What’s the best way to cook bacon for this recipe?
For the crispiest bacon, pan-fry it over medium heat or bake it on a wire rack in the oven. This helps excess fat drain away, keeping the bacon flavorful and crunchy without sogginess.
Can I substitute frozen cranberries for fresh in the compote?
Fresh cranberries yield the best texture and flavor, but frozen cranberries work fine too. Just thaw them before cooking and reduce the simmering time slightly, as they release liquid faster.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath with Cranberry Compote Recipe is such a delightful combination of flavors that I can’t recommend it enough. It’s impressive yet surprisingly easy, making it perfect whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to something special. Go ahead, give it a try — your taste buds will thank you for this indulgent, festive treat!
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Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath with Cranberry Compote Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A festive and savory Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath paired with a tangy homemade cranberry compote, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy appetizers. This delightful wreath features flaky crescent dough filled with creamy Brie cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh rosemary, baked to golden perfection and served alongside a sweet and zesty cranberry sauce.
Ingredients
Bacon Brie Wreath
- 2 cans crescent roll dough
- 1 8 oz wheel of Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 8 slices thick cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped finely
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Flaky sea salt, such as Maldon, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cranberry Compote
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberry Compote: In a saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, light brown sugar, and water. Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the cranberries begin to pop, add the orange zest and juice. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Preheat Oven & Arrange Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the crescent dough and arrange it on a large baking sheet in a circular shape, ensuring the wide ends face outward and leaving space in the middle for the filling.
- Mix and Add Filling: In a bowl, combine the cubed Brie cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped rosemary. Spoon this mixture evenly onto the dough ring, taking care not to overfill.
- Shape the Wreath: Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to create a wreath shape, pinching the seams together to seal and encase the filling nicely.
- Egg Wash and Season: Brush the entire wreath with the lightly beaten eggs to promote browning. Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the top.
- Bake the Wreath: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown, puffed, and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the wreath to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with the cooled cranberry compote on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Cook the bacon ahead to save time and ensure crispiness.
- Allow the cranberry compote to cool before serving to thicken properly.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the Brie into small uniform cubes for even melting.
- For a more herbaceous flavor, fresh rosemary is preferred over dried.
- Flaky sea salt adds texture and bursts of flavor—don’t skip it.
- The wreath can be assembled a few hours ahead and refrigerated before baking; just increase baking time slightly if baking from cold.
