Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme

This tart is a fast crowd pleaser that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. Puff pastry does the heavy lifting so you get buttery flake with minimal effort. Sweet cranberry sauce, creamy Brie, and smoky turkey bacon team up for a simple showstopper. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last minute guests.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe cuts prep time by using thawed puff pastry and sliced Brie so assembly is quick. Cooking the diced smoked turkey bacon first concentrates flavor and avoids soggy pastry. Cranberry sauce spreads easily and acts as a sweet-tart counterpoint to the rich cheese. Fresh thyme brings a bright herbal lift that keeps each bite balanced. The rustic folded edge keeps filling contained without complex shaping. Minimal ingredients with bold contrasts make it beginner friendly and fast.

Flavor and Texture

Creamy Brie melts into pockets over the tart for a gooey, indulgent core. The cranberry sauce gives a bright, slightly acidic sweetness that cuts through the richness. Smoked turkey bacon adds crisp texture and a savory smoky note without overwhelming the other flavors. Puff pastry provides flaky, buttery layers that crisp at the edges and stay tender beneath the cheese. Fresh thyme adds a subtle aromatic finish that ties the components together.

Ingredients

* 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
* 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
* 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
* 4 ounces smoked turkey bacon, diced
* 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
* 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases.
4. Place the pastry on the prepared baking sheet.
5. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced smoked turkey bacon until crispy.
6. Remove the turkey bacon from heat and drain on paper towels.
7. Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
8. Layer the sliced Brie over the cranberry sauce.
9. Sprinkle the crispy turkey bacon and fresh thyme leaves on top.
10. Season with salt and pepper.
11. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a rustic border.
12. Brush the edges with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
13. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and flaky.
14. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use pre-sliced Brie to avoid extra prep and speed assembly. If you’re short on time, microwave cranberry sauce for 10 seconds to make spreading easier. Cook the turkey bacon in advance and keep it warm in a single layer on a paper towel lined plate to retain crispness. Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any bubbling cheese or sauce for easy cleanup. For an even faster version, swap fresh thyme for a quick sprinkle of dried thyme but add it before baking so the flavor blooms.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes to restore flakiness instead of using the microwave. You can cook the turkey bacon and assemble the tart up to a day ahead, then bake just before serving. For party prep, make multiple tarts and bake them staggered so each comes out hot.

Short Closing Note

This tart is proof that impressive food doesn’t require long prep. With a few smart shortcuts you can serve a gourmet style appetizer in minutes.

Conclusion

For an inspiration source and a similar approach to assembly and flavors, check out the Bakerita cranberry brie tart recipe at Bakerita cranberry brie tart recipe.

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