Are you looking for a show-stopping appetizer or a delightful dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Brie and Cranberry Tart is the perfect answer. It's a beautiful blend of sweet and savory, creamy and tart, making it an ideal dish for holiday gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, even for those new to the kitchen. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
-
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- ¼ cup ice water
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For the Filling:
- 8 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1 (14-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Assemble the Tart:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Trim and crimp the edges.
- Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the bottom of the crust.
- Dot the brie pieces over the cranberry sauce.
- Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with thyme leaves (and nuts, if using).
3. Bake the Tart:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the brie is melted and bubbly.
- Let the tart cool slightly before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice.
Tips for the Best Brie and Cranberry Tart:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of this tart relies heavily on the quality of the brie and cranberry sauce.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can dry out the crust and the brie. Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes.
- Let it cool slightly: Allowing the tart to cool slightly before serving will help the filling to set and make it easier to slice neatly.
Variations:
- Add some spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg would complement the cranberries beautifully.
- Herby twist: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage.
- Sweet and savory combo: Add crumbled bacon or pancetta for a salty contrast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):**
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This Brie and Cranberry Tart is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. It's a delicious combination of flavors and textures, and the beautiful presentation makes it a stunning centerpiece for your table. Enjoy this quick dinner idea or delightful appetizer, and happy cooking!