Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme
If you’re looking for a delightful appetizer that will wow your guests and add a festive touch to any gathering, you’ve come to the right place! This Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme is one of my all-time favorites. It combines creamy Brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and crispy turkey strips nestled on a flaky puff pastry crust, all topped with fresh thyme. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for busy weeknights or special family celebrations.
I love how this tart embodies the flavors of the season while remaining simple enough for anyone to whip up. Whether it’s a holiday party or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress and bring smiles around the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can make an elegant appetizer without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Family-friendly appeal: The combination of flavors is loved by both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for gatherings.
- Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the tart ahead of time and pop it in the oven when your guests arrive.
- Delicious flavor: The sweet and savory mix of cranberry and Brie creates a mouthwatering taste sensation that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will be a breeze! You’ll find everything you need for this delicious Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme right here.
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 ounces turkey strips, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it according to what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Swap the protein: If you’d like, substitute turkey strips with chicken or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Change up the cheese: Try using goat cheese or sharp cheddar instead of Brie for a different flavor profile.
- Add more toppings: Sprinkle some crushed nuts or seeds on top before baking for an added crunch.
- Use different sauces: Experiment with apple butter or fig jam in place of cranberry sauce for a unique twist.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your tart bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so that nothing sticks during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. This step smooths out any creases and gives you an even base. Once rolled out, place the pastry on your prepared baking sheet—this is where all that delicious filling will go!
Step 3: Cook the Turkey Strips
In a skillet over medium heat, cook your diced turkey strips until they are nice and crispy. This adds flavor and texture to your tart. Once cooked, remove them from heat and let them drain on paper towels—this keeps them from being greasy in your final dish.
Step 4: Layer the Tart Filling
Spread cranberry sauce evenly over the puff pastry, leaving about an inch border around the edges. Next, layer on those luscious slices of Brie cheese. Sprinkle the crispy turkey strips and fresh thyme leaves on top. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper; it enhances all those wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Fold and Brush
Gently fold the edges of your pastry over the filling to create a rustic border. This not only looks beautiful but also helps contain all that tasty goodness inside. Brush those edges with beaten egg—it gives your tart that gorgeous golden finish when baked.
Step 6: Bake It Up!
Pop your tart into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an extra pop of color and flavor. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into it—trust me; you’ll want everyone to enjoy every warm bite! Serve this beautiful Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme at your next gathering, sit back, and watch as everyone enjoys this delightful treat.
Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme
Creating a stunning Cranberry Brie Tart is easier than you think, and these pro tips will help you elevate your dish to perfection!
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Use Cold Puff Pastry: Make sure your puff pastry is cold when you start working with it. This helps in achieving that flaky texture we all love when baked.
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Homemade Cranberry Sauce: If time allows, try making your own cranberry sauce. It’s surprisingly simple and allows you to adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking.
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Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pile on the toppings, be cautious not to overstuff the tart. A balanced filling ensures even cooking and keeps the pastry from becoming soggy.
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Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like goat cheese or cheddar for a twist. Different cheeses can add unique flavors that complement the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
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Let It Rest: After baking, let the tart rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps all the flavors meld together and makes for cleaner slices.
How to Serve Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme
Serving this elegant tart can be just as fun as making it! Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy dinner at home, here are some ideas to present your dish beautifully.
Garnishes
- Fresh Thyme Sprigs: Adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme on top not only enhances flavor but also adds a pop of color.
- Cranberry Relish: A small side of cranberry relish can offer an additional burst of flavor and texture alongside each slice.
Side Dishes
- Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the tart while adding freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots provide a hearty complement and bring a warm touch to your table.
- Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad tossed with nuts, dried fruits, and herbs adds a wholesome element that pairs well with the savory flavors of the tart.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for scooping up leftover cranberry sauce or enjoying alongside each bite of tart.
With these serving suggestions and tips, your Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme will surely impress everyone at your next gathering. Enjoy every delicious moment!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for busy days or festive gatherings.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the tart to cool completely before storing.
- Place leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- If you want to make the tart ahead of time, assemble it but do not bake.
- Wrap the unbaked tart tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap and foil from the frozen tart.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
FAQs
If you have any questions about making this delightful dish, you’re in the right place!
Can I use different cheese in my Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme?
Absolutely! While Brie offers a creamy texture, you can substitute with Camembert or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
How do I make cranberry sauce for this Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme?
You can easily make cranberry sauce by simmering fresh cranberries with sugar and water until they burst and thicken. It’s simple and adds a homemade touch!
Can I prepare the Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the tart beforehand and freeze it. Just bake when you’re ready to serve.
How do I know when my tart is done baking?
The tart is ready when the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to achieve that perfect color!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme as much as I do! It’s a special recipe that brings together delightful flavors and textures, making any gathering feel festive. Whether it’s for a holiday party or just a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
Cranberry Brie Tart with Turkey Strips & Thyme
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re searching for a sophisticated appetizer that will dazzle your guests and elevate any gathering, look no further than this Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips and Thyme. This delightful dish combines creamy Brie cheese, zesty cranberry sauce, and crispy turkey strips, all enveloped in a flaky puff pastry crust. Topped with fresh thyme, it’s a harmonious blend of flavors that captures the essence of the season. Not only is this tart simple to prepare, but it also serves as a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights or festive occasions. Whether you’re hosting a holiday celebration or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this easy-to-make recipe is guaranteed to impress everyone around the table.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 4 ounces turkey strips, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced turkey strips until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Spread cranberry sauce over the pastry, leaving a one-inch border. Layer with Brie slices, turkey strips, and thyme leaves. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a border and brush with beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and flaky.
- Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
