A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory:

Holiday seasons are here, and the kitchen turns into an abode of warmth, full of joy, and enticing aromas. Among the many delectable traditional festive treats, Cranberry Brie Knots stand out on holiday spreads. These golden, buttery knots, filled with creamy brie and sweet-tart cranberry sauce, are more than a feast to the taste buds-they are perfect symbols of holiday cheer. But how did this lovely recipe become a seasonal favorite? Let’s uncover its origins, recipe, and the reason why Cranberry Brie Knots should be served on your holiday table this year.

Origin of Cranberry Brie Knots:

Seasonal flavors and tradition are two threads that weave together the tale of Cranberry Brie Knots. For a long time, cranberries, with their bright red color and tart taste, have represented abundance and festivity with Christmas and Thanksgiving. For many decades, Brie is known to be a French creamy cheese going back to the 8th century. It is always known to adorn elegant cuisine. This recipe is a take on the classic flavour combinations of sweet and savory that are prevalent throughout holidays in traditional dishes.

This dough type is a braid shape representing knotting from European tradition in baking. The braid and twisted dough represent unifying together, rejoicing, and being one with people. This results in such rich, heritage-filled flavors and this festive appearance of the dish making it necessary to serve on any holiday spread.

What Makes Cranberry Brie Knots So Popular Over the Holiday Season:

Cranberry Brie Knots have become a holiday favorite for many, as they bring the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. Rich, creamy Brie cheese and tangy cranberries wrapped in buttery, flaky dough make a mouthwatering bite that is both comforting and elegant. They are easy to prepare, so it is an accessible option for holiday gatherings, yet they look and taste like a gourmet treat. These cranberry Brie knots will bring such festivity to your table, serving well as an appetizer, snack, or hors d’oeuvre for holiday parties.

How to make Cranberry Brie Knots at home:

Ingredients for 12 knots

• 1 package of refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry
• 1 cup fresh or store-bought cranberry sauce
• 30 gms / 8 oz brie cheese with the rind removed and cut into small pieces
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)

Prep Time:

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 35 minutes

How to make this delicious recipe:

Preheat your oven: To 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
Roll out crescent roll dough or puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Separate crescent roll dough into triangles, if using.

Make the Knots:

Place a small cube of brie and a teaspoon of cranberry sauce in the middle of each triangle.
Fold the edges over the filling and twist the dough into a knot, sealing the filling inside.
Bake: Place knots on the baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Brush with melted butter for a golden finish.

Optional: Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with fresh herbs for added elegance.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Serve: Cool slightly before serving. Best served warm.

How to Make Rough Puff Pastry for Cranberry Brie Knots

Elevate your recipe with rough puff pastry, bringing buttery, flaky layers with less effort than traditional puff pastry.

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ⅔ cup cold water

Instructions:

• Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour and salt in a large bowl.
• Add Butter: Add cold, cubed butter. Mix until the pieces are the size of peas.
• Add Water: Mix in the cold water, adding slowly, until dough comes together without overworking.
• Roll and Fold: Roll out dough to 10×15 inches. Fold in thirds like a letter. Rotate 90°, roll out, fold again. Repeat 4–5 times, refrigerating for 20–30 minutes between folds.
• Chill: Wrap dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using.

This homemade pastry gives Cranberry Brie Knots a fantastic, personal flavor.

How to Make the Best Cranberry Brie Knots:

• Use Homemade Cranberry Sauce: Fresh cranberry sauce has a fuller, richer flavor.
  Try Fillings: Include some chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch.
  Cheese Options: the use of camembert or goat cheese alternatives really infuses a very strong flavour into these knot rolls

Preparation in Advance Make Ahead. Refrigerate overnight and bake fresh for serving

Service Suggestions:

Here are a few service recommendations on how to serve Cranberry Brie Knots:

1. Wine Pairing: Paired with a crisp glass of white Chardonnay or a lighter, fruitier red Pinot Noir: the acidity from the wine balances the rich Brie and sweet cranberries.

2. Charcuterie Board: Cranberry Brie Knots may be incorporated into a charcuterie board with cured meats – prosciutto, salami, and olives, for instance. Such savory elements balance the overall sweet, creamy flavor.

3. Green Salad: As a break from richness, pair knots with a fresh green salad, including arugula, dressed lightly with a balsamic glaze to enhance peppery, tangy flavors.

4. Soup Side: Serve with a warm bowl of butternut squash or tomato bisque. The knots will add a hearty, flavorful dimension to the soup for a very cozy meal.

5. Holiday Platter: They are perfect as a side dish when served with roasted meats like turkey or ham during the holidays. Their savory-sweet flavor profile complements roasted dishes very well.

Nutrition Information per Knot:

Calories 150 | Fat 9g | Carbohydrate 12g | Protein 4g

Perfect little indulgence.

Conclusion:

Cranberry Brie Knots are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. With their flaky, buttery texture and a delightful burst of cranberry and creamy Brie, these knots are sure to impress your guests. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, they bring a festive touch to any meal. Easy to prepare, sophisticated in flavor, the Cranberry Brie Knots are surely to delight anyone who tries this culinary endeavor.

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