Looking to elevate your Christmas gathering with a delicious and festive appetizer? This Cranberry Brie and Herb Bruschetta is a fantastic choice. It combines the creamy richness of melted Brie with the tartness of cranberries and a touch of fresh herbs, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. Easy to prepare and beautifully presented, this bruschetta is ideal for both small gatherings and grand holiday feasts.
Recipe: Cranberry Brie and Herb Bruschetta
This recipe for Cranberry Brie and Herb Bruschetta is simple to make yet packed with holiday flavors like cranberries, fresh herbs, and creamy Brie. Perfect for sharing around the table or serving as an elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch slices
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- 200g Brie cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries or cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
- Fresh rosemary and thyme, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Baguette:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush each slice with olive oil.
- Toast in the oven for 5–7 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
- Prepare the Cranberry Topping:
- If using fresh cranberries, add them to a small saucepan with a splash of water and honey. Simmer until they soften and burst, then stir in orange zest.
- If using cranberry sauce, warm slightly and mix with the orange zest.
- Assemble the Bruschetta:
- Place a slice of Brie on each toasted baguette slice.
- Top with a spoonful of the cranberry mixture.
- Sprinkle each piece with fresh rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bake and Serve:
- Return the assembled bruschetta to the oven for 3-5 minutes, just until the Brie begins to melt.
- Arrange on a festive platter and drizzle lightly with honey for extra sweetness, if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Bruschetta
-
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme bring a wonderful holiday
aroma to the dish. - Quality Ingredients: Choose a good-quality Brie for a rich, creamy flavor, and don’t skimp on the olive oil.
- Serve Warm: Serve the bruschetta while the Brie is still warm and slightly melted for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This bruschetta pairs well with classic Christmas sides and is versatile enough to be served alongside a variety of dishes:
- Seasonal Salad: A salad with mixed greens, dried cranberries, nuts, and balsamic dressing complements the tart cranberry and creamy Brie.
- Charcuterie Board: Pair with cured meats, nuts, and fresh fruit for a beautiful appetizer spread.
- Sparkling Wine or Pinot Grigio: Millon Wines' Impressionist Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this dish, as its citrus notes and refreshing acidity balance the richness of the Brie and the tartness of the cranberries.
Pairing with Millon Wines' Impressionist Pinot Grigio
For an extra festive touch, serve this Cranberry Brie and Herb Bruschetta with Millon Wines’ 2024 Impressionist Pinot Grigio. The wine’s light floral notes, ripe pear, and zesty citrus harmonize with the cranberry’s tartness and the Brie’s creaminess, while its crisp acidity keeps the palate refreshed. Serve the Pinot Grigio slightly chilled for the best tasting experience—ideal for adding a special touch to your holiday gathering.
Enjoy this Cranberry Brie and Herb Bruschetta as a Christmas appetizer to remember. This easy, elegant recipe is sure to be a festive favorite, combining simple ingredients for a sophisticated holiday treat. Paired with Millon Wines’ Pinot Grigio, it’s the perfect way to elevate your Christmas celebrations.