When the holiday season rolls around and the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like gathering with loved ones over a warm, decadent dish. Enter the XL Brie Wreath: a show-stopping centerpiece that not only elevates your festive table but also fills the air with an irresistible aroma of melted cheese and garlic. With each bite, you’ll experience that perfect combination of gooey brie, crunchy garlic buttered bread, and a hint of sweet cranberry sauce.
I discovered this delightful concoction during a cookie-baking marathon with friends, where we decided to shake things up. We wanted something easy yet impressive, and this wreath delivered on both accounts. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat. So roll up your sleeves and prepare for a cheeseboard experience that’s as fun to make as it is to share!
Why is this XL Brie Wreath a must-try?
Impressive Presentation: This show-stopping centerpiece will wow your guests as soon as they lay eyes on it.
Gooey Goodness: Melted brie enveloped in aromatic garlic buttered bread creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
Easy to Assemble: With minimal prep, you can whip this up quickly, making hosting less stressful.
Versatile Delight: Whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a simple get-together, this wreath fits right in.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce harmonizes beautifully with the cheese, appealing to all palates.
Elevate your food game this season and dive into a festive, gourmet experience with our XL Brie Wreath!
XL Brie Wreath Ingredients
For the Wreath
• 900g Brie Round – The creamy star of the dish adds a luscious texture; look for a large brie during the festive season.
• 6 Par-Baked Buffet Rolls – These crunchy vessels finish baking as the brie melts, providing the perfect complement.
• 100g Cranberry Sauce – Adds a sweet and tart burst that harmonizes with the brie; choose homemade for a personal touch.
For the Garlic Butter
• 3 Tbsp Garlic Butter (softened) – Infuses rich garlic notes into the bread; substitute with regular butter + minced garlic if needed.
For the Finishing Touch
• 1 Tbsp Runny Honey – Drizzled on top, it brings a beautiful sweet finish; maple syrup works as a delicious alternative.
Elevate your holiday festivities with this easy and exquisite XL Brie Wreath!
How to Make XL Brie Wreath
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) utilizing the fan bake setting, ensuring that it’s warm and ready for your creation to come alive.
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Prepare your baking tray by lining it with parchment paper. Place the brie wheel in the center, ready to become the heart of this festive masterpiece.
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Cut the par-baked rolls into quarters by halving them vertically and horizontally, creating little bites for the wreath’s structure.
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Spread cranberry sauce generously on one side of each roll piece, then arrange them around the brie in a lovely circular shape, forming your wreath.
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Brush the assembled wreath with softened garlic butter, ensuring every piece is glistening and full of flavor.
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Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the rolls turn golden brown and the brie is melting gloriously, filling your kitchen with a tempting aroma.
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Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh thyme and rosemary right before serving. This finishing touch not only looks beautiful but adds a delightful flavor contrast. Enjoy warm alongside extra rolls and crackers!
Optional: Serve with a selection of fresh fruits for a festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with XL Brie Wreath?
Create a delightful spread that complements the creamy and festive flavors of this stunning wreath.
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Crispy Crostini: These light, crunchy bites are perfect for scooping up melted brie, enhancing the experience. They add a satisfying texture to each bite and are perfect for mingling.
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Fresh Fruit Platter: Juicy grapes, tart apple slices, or ripe figs offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the brie. The sweetness balances the savory flavors beautifully, making each bite a burst of goodness.
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Savory Charcuterie: A selection of cured meats like prosciutto or salami introduces a delicious saltiness that works wonders with the creamy cheese. Pairing is simple, and it invites sharing among guests!
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Elegant Salad: A mixed greens salad with cranberries and walnuts provides a refreshing crunch and a layer of flavors to brighten up your table. The earthy notes enhance the wreath, making for an inviting presentation.
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Herbed Garlic Bread: Serve a side of garlic bread for those who crave a bit more crunch with their cheese. The flavors will harmonize beautifully, echoing the garlic butter without overwhelming the brie.
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Sparkling Wine or Cider: A crisp sparkling wine or a sweet cider brings a festive toast to your gathering. Their acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and adds to the celebratory spirit.
Elevate the festive feel with these pairings that turn your XL Brie Wreath into a centerpiece of deliciousness!
XL Brie Wreath Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this recipe for a delicious and delightful twist!
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Flavored Brie: Swap plain brie for herbed or smoked varieties for an exciting flavor boost that surprises your taste buds.
Give your guests an unexpected treat that elevates the essence of each bite. -
Savory Spinach: Add cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms between the brie and the bread for a savory vegetable punch.
It not only infuses richness but also adds a vibrant color contrast you’ll love. -
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top of the brie before baking for added texture and flavor.
They will toast beautifully, providing that delightful crunch with each creamy bite. -
Sweet Fig Jam: Swap the cranberry sauce for fig jam for an indulgently sweet and rich flavor that pairs beautifully with brie.
The perfect balance of sweetness will make your wreath unforgettable. -
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free rolls or slices of gluten-free bread to cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
This way, everyone can indulge in the gooey goodness. -
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha on top for those who crave a bit of heat.
It’s a flavorful adventure that brings out the best in melted cheese! -
Seasonal Fruits: Incorporate slices of fresh pear or apple arranged around the wreath for a refreshing twist that brightens the flavors.
The sweet juiciness of the fruit complements the richness of the brie perfectly. -
Herb Infusion: Mix chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the garlic butter for an aromatic flavor infusion that takes this dish to new heights.
A little extra scent goes a long way in elevating the experience!
How to Store and Freeze XL Brie Wreath
Fridge: Store leftover XL Brie Wreath in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep the brie and rolls fresh, but they are best enjoyed warm.
Freezer: You can freeze the assembled XL Brie Wreath before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. If pre-baked, reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10-15 minutes.
Preparation Tip: If making ahead, prepare the wreath and store it unbaked in the fridge covered for up to 24 hours before baking—easy peasy!
Make Ahead Options
The XL Brie Wreath is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can assemble the entire wreath up to 24 hours in advance by preparing it, then covering it tightly and refrigerating until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to brush it with garlic butter right before putting it in the oven to maintain that delicious flavor and golden color. When it’s party time, simply pop it in the oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden. This way, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for XL Brie Wreath
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Perfectly Par-Baked: Use par-baked rolls for ideal crunchiness; they finish baking perfectly while the brie melts.
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Melting Magic: If your brie isn’t melting fast enough, cover it with aluminum foil for a few minutes to help it along.
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Serve Warm: Always serve the XL Brie Wreath immediately after baking for that gooey, irresistible texture—timer ready!
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Glazed Goodness: Brush the wreath thoroughly with garlic butter to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.
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Fresh Herbs Finish: Garnish with fresh thyme and rosemary for a pop of color and an aromatic touch that enhances your platter.
XL Brie Wreath Recipe FAQs
How do I select the perfect brie for the XL Brie Wreath?
When choosing a brie for your XL Brie Wreath, look for one that is creamy and supple, with a consistent texture. Avoid brie that has dark spots all over or feels overly firm, as this may indicate it’s overripe. A fresh brie should have a pleasant aroma and a smooth, white rind.
How should I store leftover XL Brie Wreath?
Store any leftover XL Brie Wreath in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the bread’s softness and prevent the cheese from hardening, make sure it is well covered. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat gently in the oven for the best results!
Can I freeze the XL Brie Wreath, and if so, how?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled XL Brie Wreath before baking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, heat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake it straight from frozen for about 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
What should I do if the brie isn’t melting quickly?
If you find that your brie isn’t melting fast enough during baking, don’t worry! Cover it with aluminum foil for a few minutes to help it along. This can create a little steamy environment that helps the cheese ooze in no time.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider for the XL Brie Wreath?
Yes! The XL Brie Wreath is vegetarian-friendly, but be cautious if you’re serving guests with allergies. Brie contains dairy, so make sure there are no lactose intolerant individuals among your guests. Additionally, always check for any gluten intolerances, as the rolls contain wheat. If needed, use gluten-free rolls and alternate cheeses!
XL Brie Wreath: Your Show-Stopping Holiday Appetizer!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) utilizing the fan bake setting, ensuring it’s warm and ready for your creation to come alive.
- Prepare your baking tray by lining it with parchment paper. Place the brie wheel in the center, ready to become the heart of this festive masterpiece.
- Cut the par-baked rolls into quarters by halving them vertically and horizontally, creating little bites for the wreath’s structure.
- Spread cranberry sauce generously on one side of each roll piece, then arrange them around the brie in a lovely circular shape, forming your wreath.
- Brush the assembled wreath with softened garlic butter, ensuring every piece is glistening and full of flavor.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the rolls turn golden brown and the brie is melting gloriously, filling your kitchen with a tempting aroma.
- Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh thyme and rosemary right before serving. This finishing touch not only looks beautiful but adds a delightful flavor contrast. Enjoy warm alongside extra rolls and crackers!