Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree

Name: Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 sheets ready-rolled puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg yolk + 1 tsp water (for egg wash); 1 wheel of brie (200–250g), sliced; ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought); ¼ cup pistachios, roughly chopped; Zest of ½ orange (optional, for brightness); All-purpose flour (for dusting); Baking paper

Author: Natalie Brooks

Published: November 23, 2025

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Introduction to Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree

As the hustle and bustle of the holiday season approaches, I find myself searching for dishes that bring both joy and ease to my kitchen. Enter my Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree! This gorgeous centerpiece isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delicious blend of flavors that will delight your guests.

Picture this: a flaky, golden pastry filled with creamy brie, tart cranberry sauce, and crunchy pistachios. It’s the perfect appetizer that’s quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy moms and professionals like us. Your loved ones will be raving about it long after the last slice is gone!

Why You’ll Love This Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree

You’ll adore this recipe not just for its incredible taste but also for its simplicity. In under an hour, you can create a stunning dish that will wow your family and friends. The sweet and savory flavors blend beautifully, making each bite a festive delight. Plus, the visual appeal of this Christmas tree adds a fun twist to your holiday table, sparking joy in every gathering!

Ingredients for Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree, you’ll need a handful of delicious components that can be easily found at your local grocery store.

Ready-rolled puff pastry: This flaky dough saves time and effort, perfect for those busy evenings. You can find it in the freezer section.

Egg yolk and water: This simple egg wash adds a beautiful golden sheen to your pastry, making it look irresistible.
Brie cheese: The star of this dish! Go for a soft, creamy wheel that melts beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a flavored brie to add a unique twist.

Cranberry sauce: This adds a sweet and tart taste. Whether homemade or store-bought, it’s a crucial element. I often make mine with a hint of orange zest to brighten it up!
Pistachios: Roughly chopped, these nuts introduce a delightful crunch and a pop of color. You can substitute with pecans or walnuts if desired.
Orange zest: While optional, it enhances the flavor, bringing a citrusy brightness to the dish. A little goes a long way!

All-purpose flour: Just a dusting helps to prevent sticking while rolling out your pastry.
Baking paper: Essential for lining your baking sheet to ensure easy cleanup.

You’ll find exact quantities for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, where you can also print the recipe for convenience. Enjoy the process of gathering these tasty ingredients, and let the fun begin!

How to Make Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

To kick things off, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree bakes to perfection. While that’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make your cleanup a breeze. Trust me, parchment is your kitchen best friend. As the oven warms up, you’ll set the stage for this festive treat that’ll take center stage at any holiday gathering!

Step 2: Roll Out Puff Pastry

Next up, it’s time to roll out your ready-rolled puff pastry! Place the sheets on a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll them out until they are evenly sized rectangles. The trick is to keep the thickness uniform, around 1/8 inch. This ensures your pastry bakes evenly, resulting in a gorgeous, golden brown finish. It’s like laying the foundation for a delicious masterpiece!

Step 3: Spread the Cranberry Sauce

Now for the sweet part – spreading the cranberry sauce! Take one pastry sheet and scoop out your cranberry sauce. Gently spread it evenly across the pastry, but leave a 1 cm border around the edges. This little edge keeps everything contained while baking. I absolutely adore using homemade sauce with a zesty twist, but store-bought works just as well. Whichever you choose, it’s the tangy heart of this delightful dish!

Step 4: Add the Brie and Pistachios

It’s time to layer on the brie! Place slices of brie cheese over the cranberry sauce. Each creamy layer adds richness to your dish. Now, sprinkle the roughly chopped pistachios on top. They not only add crunch but also a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet and tart notes of the cranberry. Can you smell it? This combination is a festive flavor bomb waiting to happen!

Step 5: Assemble the Christmas Tree

With the layers in place, it’s time to bring your Christmas tree to life! Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top and gently press down the edges to seal it all in. Then, cut the assembled pastry into the shape of a large triangle tree. Don’t worry; imperfections only add character! You can even use pastry scraps to create fun decorations like stars for the top!

Step 6: Create the Spirals

Here comes the fun part! Cut horizontal ‘branches’ along both sides of your tree shape, making sure to leave the center strip intact for the trunk. Now, gently twist each branch outward from the center. This creates a festive spiral effect, which not only looks stunning but also adds a delightful texture to your pastry. It’s like dressing your tree with edible ornaments!

Step 7: Brush and Bake

It’s almost time to get your tree in the oven! Brush the entire pastry with the egg wash mixture. This will give it a glossy, mouthwatering finish. Then, pop your creation into the preheated oven and bake for 22–25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want that deep golden brown color and puffed perfection! As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with a heavenly aroma that’ll make it hard to wait!

Tips for Success

Ensure your puff pastry is well-thawed for easy rolling.
Keep your edges neat when spreading the cranberry sauce.
Don’t overcrowd the brie layers; less is more!
Use a sharp knife for clean cuts when shaping the tree.
Brush well with egg wash for that golden, glossy finish.

Serve warm for the best flavor and texture!

Equipment Needed

Rolling pin: Use a wine bottle if you don’t have one!
Baking sheet: Any flat tray works, but non-stick is a bonus.
Parchment paper: Wax paper can save the day if you’re in a pinch!

Sharp knife: A pizza cutter does the trick too for cutting shapes!

Variations

Fruit Swap: Try switching the cranberry sauce for fig jam or apple butter for a different flavor twist.
Nuts Galore: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for variety and texture.

Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberry sauce for a warm, festive kick.
Vegan Friendly: Substitute brie with a plant-based cheese option, and use aquafaba instead of egg wash for a vegan version.
Herbal Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with drinks: Serve with a glass of sparkling wine or a fruity holiday punch for a festive touch.
Complement with sides: Consider serving with a simple green salad to balance flavors.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary around the tree for a lovely presentation.

FAQs about Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree

Can I make the Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge, and when you’re ready, pop it in the oven. This dish is best served warm!

What can I substitute for brie cheese?

If brie isn’t your favorite, try camembert or even a creamy goat cheese. Each will give your Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree a unique flavor profile, keeping things interesting.

How should I store the leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore its flaky texture. Trust me, it holds up surprisingly well!

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Definitely! Homemade cranberry sauce can elevate your dish with fresh flavors. I love making it with a touch of orange zest to add a zesty brightness to the Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! This festive appetizer is completely vegetarian-friendly. The combination of brie, cranberry, and pistachios makes it a delicious option for vegetarian guests at your holiday celebrations!

Final Thoughts

This Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of the season. The delightful combination of flavors and textures brings out the festive spirit, and I can already picture the smiles on your guests’ faces as they indulge in this treat.

Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a lively holiday party, making this appetizer is a joyful experience. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and create delicious memories together. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a cherished tradition for years to come!