Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme

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Looking for a holiday appetizer that looks like a showstopper but comes together with minimal fuss? This Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme is just that. Golden puff pastry serves as the buttery base for melted brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, crispy pancetta, and a few sprigs of fresh thyme. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a winter wine night with friends, this tart delivers cozy elegance in every bite.

The real magic lies in the balance of flavors. Creamy brie mellows the brightness of cranberry sauce, while pancetta adds that irresistible salty crunch. Topped with earthy thyme, the result is rustic, rich, and festive. Best of all? You only need a handful of ingredients and a few key tools to make it happen.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

• Baking Sheet: Choose one with a rimmed edge to prevent any cranberry or melted brie from sliding off during baking.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your sheet helps keep the tart from sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Sharp Knife or Pastry Wheel: For trimming and scoring the puff pastry without tearing.
• Small Skillet: You’ll need this to render the pancetta until it’s golden and crisp.
• Cooling Rack: Allows air to circulate underneath, keeping the bottom of the tart from getting soggy after baking.
• Pastry Brush (optional): To brush the edges with egg wash for that golden, glossy finish.

Each tool plays its part in ensuring your tart bakes evenly, looks beautiful, and releases without issue. When prepping puff pastry, always work on a cold surface and move quickly to keep the dough crisp and flaky.

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Ingredients for the Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme

• Puff Pastry Sheet: The flaky, golden base that turns crisp in the oven and holds all the toppings.
• Brie Cheese: Offers a creamy, gooey center that balances the sweetness and saltiness of the other components.
• Cranberry Sauce: Adds tangy-sweet brightness and festive color. Homemade or quality store-bought both work well.
• Pancetta: This Italian cured meat crisps up beautifully, delivering salty depth and texture.
• Fresh Thyme: Brings in a woodsy note that ties the flavors together.
• Egg (for egg wash): Helps give the pastry edges a beautiful, golden sheen.

Every ingredient complements the next, creating a layered bite that’s both indulgent and harmonious.

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How To Make the Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme

Step 1: Prep the Puff Pastry

Remove your puff pastry sheet from the freezer and let it thaw for about 20–30 minutes, just until pliable but still cold. On a lightly floured surface, unfold the sheet and gently roll it out to smooth any creases.

Step 2: Score and Shape

Transfer the pastry to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Score a border about 1 inch from the edges (don’t cut all the way through). This allows the edges to puff up while the center stays flatter.

Step 3: Crisp the Pancetta

In a small skillet over medium heat, cook the diced pancetta until golden and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Assemble the Tart

Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce within the scored border. Add slices or chunks of brie evenly across the top. Scatter the crispy pancetta over everything, then tuck in a few sprigs of thyme.

Step 5: Bake

Brush the border with a beaten egg. Bake the tart in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are puffed and golden, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the tart cool for 5–10 minutes on a cooling rack before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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Serving and Storing the Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme

This tart is best served warm—just when the cheese is soft and melty. It makes a stunning appetizer on a holiday table or a chic addition to a wine and cheese spread. If you’re planning a party, you can prep everything ahead of time and bake just before serving.

For storing, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop slices in a 300°F oven until warmed through and the pastry re-crisps.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?

Absolutely! Choose a whole berry version for texture, or make your own if you have time.

What can I substitute for pancetta?

Bacon works well as a substitute. Just chop it small and render until crispy.

Do I need to remove the rind from the brie?

Nope! Brie rind is edible and adds extra flavor. Slice or scoop depending on your texture preference.

Can I freeze the tart?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it baked and cooled. Reheat in a hot oven directly from frozen.

What herbs pair well besides thyme?

Rosemary or sage both work beautifully here, especially for fall and winter themes.

Can I make this tart vegetarian?

Of course! Just omit the pancetta and maybe add toasted walnuts for crunch.

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Want More Festive Appetizer Ideas?

If this tart made your appetizer list, you’ll want to explore more savory bites:

You might also enjoy the Italian Grinder Salad for a meaty, zesty option or the elegant Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shells for a more indulgent platter.

Or go bold with the Loaded Tater Tot Appetizers—crispy, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing. Looking for something that pairs beautifully with brie? Try the Air Fried Potato Wedges for dipping alongside.

And for a sweet-savory balance, consider the Raspberry Crescent Rolls as a dessert follow-up.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your appetizer or holiday boards for easy reference. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Did you use homemade cranberry sauce? Did you add a drizzle of honey? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others bring their own flair to it.

For more recipe inspiration, follow along on my Pinterest page: LadyPlate on Pinterest

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