f you’re looking for an impressive, yet easy-to-make appetizer that combines rich, creamy brie, sweet and tart cranberry sauce, and crunchy pecans, this Layered Phyllo Pastry with Brie, Cranberry Sauce, and Pecans is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crunchy, all wrapped up in delicate, crispy phyllo pastry. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a dinner party, or just want a special treat for yourself, this appetizer is sure to impress.
What makes this appetizer so special is the contrast of textures and flavors. The crispy, buttery layers of phyllo pastry provide a perfect contrast to the soft, creamy brie. The tart cranberry sauce adds a sweet, seasonal punch, while the toasted pecans give a satisfying crunch. Together, they create a deliciously balanced bite that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is not only simple to make but also looks beautiful when plated, making it an elegant addition to any party spread.
I first made this Layered Phyllo Pastry with Brie, Cranberry Sauce, and Pecans when I was looking for an appetizer that was both easy and a little more elevated. After one bite, it became a favorite in our household—delicate, flavorful, and utterly indulgent. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, and I love how versatile it is. Whether you serve it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
Why This Layered Phyllo Pastry with Brie, Cranberry Sauce, and Pecans Will Be Your New Go-To Appetizer
- Elegant and delicious: The combination of creamy brie, sweet cranberry sauce, and crunchy pecans wrapped in flaky phyllo pastry makes for an irresistible appetizer.
- Perfect balance of flavors: The savory brie and sweet cranberry sauce are complemented by the crunch of toasted pecans, creating a harmonious bite.
- Impressive and easy: While it looks fancy, this appetizer is simple to make with minimal ingredients and prep time.
- Great for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast, a dinner party, or a casual gathering, this appetizer is sure to impress your guests.
What You Need For Layered Phyllo Pastry with Brie, Cranberry Sauce, and Pecans
- 1 package of phyllo dough (about 12 sheets)
- 8 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into slices
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)
How to Make Layered Phyllo Pastry with Brie, Cranberry Sauce, and Pecans
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the phyllo dough: Place one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Place a second sheet on top and brush again with butter. Repeat with 4-5 more sheets to create a layered base.
- Layer the ingredients: Once you’ve created a nice stack of phyllo dough, place the slices of brie in the center, spreading them out evenly. Spoon a tablespoon or two of cranberry sauce over the brie, followed by a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
- Wrap the pastry: Carefully fold the sides of the phyllo dough over the filling to create a pocket. You can fold the top and bottom in as well, or leave the ends open for a more rustic look. Gently press down to seal the pastry and brush the top with more melted butter.
- Bake the pastry: Place the pastry on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden and crispy.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and sweet!
Tips
- If you prefer a more golden color on the phyllo, you can brush it with egg wash (a beaten egg with a little water) instead of butter before baking.
- Make sure to work quickly with the phyllo dough, as it dries out fast. Keep it covered with a damp towel while assembling.
- You can make individual portions of this appetizer by cutting the phyllo into squares and assembling small parcels.
- For added flavor, try drizzling a little honey on top after baking for a touch of sweetness that complements the brie and cranberry.
Substitutions and Variations
- Brie Alternatives: If you don’t like brie, you can substitute it with camembert or goat cheese for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Nut Alternatives: Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts can be used in place of pecans for a different texture and taste.
- Different Sauces: Instead of cranberry sauce, you can use fig jam, apricot preserves, or even a balsamic glaze for a unique flavor twist.
- Add Greens: Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula to the filling for an added layer of freshness and color.
Make a Healthier Version
- Low-Fat: Use light phyllo dough and a lower-fat cheese like reduced-fat brie to make this appetizer lighter.
- Sugar-Free: If you’re making this for a low-sugar diet, you can substitute the cranberry sauce with sugar-free cranberry jam or use a different fruit preserve with no added sugar.
- Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, but to make it even more nutritious, add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables inside the pastry.
And there you have it! This Layered Phyllo Pastry with Brie, Cranberry Sauce, and Pecans is the perfect balance of rich, savory, and sweet flavors, all wrapped up in crispy, buttery phyllo pastry. Whether it’s for a holiday celebration, a casual get-together, or an elegant appetizer before dinner, this dish will wow your guests. Don’t forget to let us know how your pastry turns out, and be sure to check out some of our other delicious appetizers!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this pastry ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and bake it right before serving. - Can I freeze this appetizer?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked pastry. Once assembled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake from frozen at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. - Can I use puff pastry instead of phyllo?
Yes! You can substitute phyllo with puff pastry for a thicker, flakier crust. Just make sure to bake it longer to ensure it’s fully cooked through. - Can I make this with different fillings?
Absolutely! You can swap the cranberry sauce for other fruit preserves like fig, apple, or apricot, or add roasted vegetables for a savory variation. - How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover pastries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the phyllo again.
Layered Phyllo Pastry with Brie, Cranberry Sauce, and Pecans
Course: All Word Recipes4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal0
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 package 1 phyllo dough (about 12 sheets)
8 oz 8 brie cheese, rind removed and cut into slices
1/2 cup 1/2 cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1/4 cup 1/4 pecans, roughly chopped
4 tbsp 4 unsalted butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the phyllo dough: Place one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Place a second sheet on top and brush again with butter. Repeat with 4-5 more sheets to create a layered base.
- Layer the ingredients: Once you’ve created a nice stack of phyllo dough, place the slices of brie in the center, spreading them out evenly. Spoon a tablespoon or two of cranberry sauce over the brie, followed by a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
- Wrap the pastry: Carefully fold the sides of the phyllo dough over the filling to create a pocket. You can fold the top and bottom in as well, or leave the ends open for a more rustic look. Gently press down to seal the pastry and brush the top with more melted butter.
- Bake the pastry: Place the pastry on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden and crispy.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and sweet!
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