Cranberry Brie and Thyme Puff Pastry Twists always signal the holidays in my kitchen. The smell of buttery pastry, sweet cranberry, and fresh thyme instantly sets the mood.
I first made these by accident — snowed in before a party, with nothing but a puff pastry sheet, leftover cranberry sauce, and brie. I twisted them together, tossed them in the oven, and hoped for the best.
Twenty minutes later, they came out golden, gooey, and gone within minutes.
Since then, they’ve become a holiday tradition — elegant, effortless, and ready in under 30 minutes. I’ve served them at brunch, packed them into lunchboxes, and plated them next to Christmas roasts.
They never fail to impress.
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Why This Recipe is So Special
There’s something magical about how Cranberry Brie and Thyme Puff Pastry Twists turn a handful of ingredients into something beautiful and delicious. They look impressive, but couldn’t be easier to make.
The contrast of flavors is what really makes them shine — the creaminess of brie, the tart pop of cranberry, and the freshness of thyme come together in every flaky bite.
What I love most is their versatility. They’re perfect for holiday parties, casual brunches, or even quiet nights by the fire. You can dress them up or keep them simple.
They pair beautifully with other crowd-pleasers like Golden Baked Brie with Caramelized Apples and Thyme or savory bites like Spinach Mushroom and Artichoke Galette.
Whether you’re hosting or just craving something cozy, this recipe delivers every time — no stress, all flavor.
Ingredients & Preparation
Just a Few Simple Ingredients
What makes Cranberry Brie and Thyme Puff Pastry Twists so irresistible is how easy they are to pull together — just six ingredients and minimal prep. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Puff pastry | 1 sheet (about 250g) | Thawed in the fridge, not room temp |
| Brie cheese | 120g (4 oz) | Slice thin for even melting |
| Cranberry sauce | 1/3 cup (80g) | Whole berry or smooth both work |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 tsp | Strip from stem just before using |
| Egg | 1 | Beaten, for that glossy finish |
| Honey (optional) | 1 tbsp | A drizzle after baking adds sweetness |
These basic ingredients combine to deliver a puff pastry appetizer that feels both rustic and refined. And because most of them are probably already in your fridge this time of year, it’s perfect for last-minute hosting.
Print
Cranberry Brie and Thyme Puff Pastry Twists
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 8 twists
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cranberry Brie and Thyme Puff Pastry Twists are a warm, flaky holiday appetizer made with just six simple ingredients. Filled with creamy brie, sweet cranberry sauce, and a touch of fresh thyme, these twists are quick, elegant, and crowd-pleasing every time.
Ingredients
• 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250g), thawed
• 120g (4 oz) brie cheese, sliced
• 1/3 cup cranberry sauce (smooth or whole berry)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for post-bake drizzle)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Unroll puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If needed, roll slightly to smooth out folds.
3. Cut pastry into 8 even strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
4. Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce on each strip. Top with brie slices and sprinkle with thyme.
5. Fold each strip lengthwise and gently twist. Pinch the ends to seal.
6. Place twists on prepared tray and brush with beaten egg.
7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
8. Optional: Drizzle warm twists with honey before serving.
Notes
– Keep puff pastry cold before working with it to prevent sticking.
– Use chilled brie for cleaner slicing and easier assembly.
– Mini versions bake faster and make great finger food.
– Try rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different flavor.
– Best served warm, but still tasty at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Tools and Easy Substitutions
No need for specialty tools here. All you really need is a:
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Baking tray
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Parchment paper
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Knife or pizza cutter
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Pastry brush (or even your fingers for the egg wash!)
And if you’re missing something? No worries:
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Cheese: Camembert or even mozzarella can work in a pinch.
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Herbs: Try rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a woodier note.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan brie and a non-dairy milk for brushing.
Want to go bold? Add a smear of Dijon mustard under the cranberry for a tangy twist, or top with crushed pecans before baking for crunch.
These pair wonderfully with cozy dishes like Spinach Feta and Roasted Garlic Bake or festive appetizers such as Sweet Potato Rounds with Whipped Goat Cheese and Pomegranate.
With everything prepped and your puff pastry thawed, it’s time to bake something truly memorable.
Cooking Instructions & Tips
Step-by-Step: From Pastry to Perfection
Making these Cranberry Brie and Thyme Puff Pastry Twists is as simple as twist, bake, serve. Here’s exactly how I do it — every time.
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. Slice the Pastry
On a floured surface, unroll the puff pastry and gently roll it out to smooth any creases. Then cut it into 8 long strips (a sharp knife or pizza cutter works great).
3. Add the Filling
Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce down the center of each strip. Lay thin slices of brie on top, then sprinkle with thyme.
4. Fold and Twist
Fold each strip in half lengthwise over the filling, then twist the strip gently. You should get 3–4 good twists per piece. Pinch the ends to keep the filling tucked in.
5. Egg Wash and Bake
Place the twists on your lined tray. Brush each with beaten egg — this gives that irresistible golden shine. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until puffed and golden.
6. Optional Honey Drizzle
If you like a hint of sweet with savory, drizzle a bit of warm honey over the twists as they cool. It adds a beautiful gloss and extra flavor.
Tips for Success Every Time
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Keep it chilled: If the pastry gets too soft, pop it back in the fridge for 10 minutes before twisting.
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Use cold brie: It slices cleaner and doesn’t ooze out before baking.
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Don’t overfill: Too much cheese or sauce can make twisting messy.
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Make ahead: Assemble and freeze unbaked — bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the baking time.
These tasty bites also sit beautifully next to more savory holiday hits like Savory Turkey and Cranberry Crescent Ring or Baked Brie with Roasted Plums and Thyme.
Whether you’re baking for guests or treating yourself, this recipe is pure holiday joy in pastry form.
Serving, Storing & Pairing
What to Serve with Cranberry Brie and Thyme Puff Pastry Twists
These twists are showstoppers on their own — golden, melty, and bursting with flavor — but they shine even brighter when served with the right company.
For a festive appetizer spread, try them warm alongside a winter salad with pomegranate seeds or a mug of hot mulled wine. They pair especially well with creamy dips, fig jam, or a cheese board loaded with textures.
I also love serving them with hearty, comforting dishes like Creamy Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup. The creamy soup complements the tart cranberry and rich brie perfectly.
Hosting brunch? Set them next to something slightly sweet, like Baked Apple French Toast with Maple Pecan Topping. The mix of savory, fruity, and buttery makes every bite feel complete.
They’re elegant enough for Christmas Eve, casual enough for a fall picnic, and comforting enough to enjoy solo by the fireplace.
How to Store and Reheat
These twists are at their best right out of the oven, but you can absolutely make them ahead or enjoy leftovers.
To Store:
Let the twists cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving — it softens the pastry and steals that beautiful flake.
Freezer-Friendly Tip:
You can freeze unbaked assembled twists on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C), adding 3–5 extra minutes.
Keep a few in the freezer for surprise guests or when you’re craving something warm and comforting without the effort.
FAQ: Cranberry Brie and Thyme Puff Pastry Twists
Can I make these puff pastry twists ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the Cranberry Brie and Thyme Puff Pastry Twists up to a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, freeze them unbaked and bake directly from frozen when needed.
What kind of cranberry sauce works best?
Both whole berry and smooth cranberry sauce work beautifully. Just be sure it’s not too watery, or it might make the pastry soggy. Homemade sauce with orange zest adds a lovely citrus note.
Can I substitute another cheese for brie?
Absolutely. Camembert is the closest swap, but you can also try soft goat cheese or mozzarella for a mild variation. Just avoid overly runny cheeses, as they won’t hold up well during baking.
Why did my puff pastry twist come undone?
This can happen if the strips are overfilled or too warm before twisting. Make sure the pastry stays cold, and don’t overdo the fillings — less is more when it comes to twistability.
Do these taste good at room temperature?
Yes, they do! While they’re best warm and fresh, cranberry brie puff pastry twists are still delicious once cooled. They’re perfect for picnics or buffet-style gatherings.
Can I make mini versions for parties?
Definitely. Just slice the puff pastry into narrower strips and reduce the baking time by 4–5 minutes. Mini twists are great finger foods and look adorable on an appetizer tray.
Conclusion
There’s something so satisfying about taking simple ingredients and turning them into something that feels truly special. That’s what I love most about Cranberry Brie and Thyme Puff Pastry Twists — they’re effortless to make, but taste like a treat straight from a bakery window.
Whether you’re hosting for the holidays, planning a cozy brunch, or just craving something warm and buttery on a chilly day, these twists always deliver comfort, elegance, and a little bit of magic.
If you’re a fan of brie and cranberry, you might also enjoy these Puff Pastry Brie Bites with Hot Honey and Walnuts or go savory with the Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Tart — both are perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
And for even more festive ideas, don’t miss these stunning Cranberry Brie Pastry Tarts from Half Baked Harvest — they’re another dreamy variation you’ll want to bookmark.