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Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta and Fresh Thyme

Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta and Fresh Thyme

The Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta and Fresh Thyme is a savory, sweet, and tangy appetizer featuring a flaky puff pastry crust filled with creamy Brie, crispy pancetta, tart cranberry mixture, and fragrant fresh thyme. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights, it offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures with an elegant yet simple preparation.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed)

Filling

  • 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced
  • 4 oz pancetta, diced
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Thaw the frozen puff pastry according to package instructions. Roll it out gently on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases, then transfer to a tart pan or baking sheet. Use a fork to prick the base to prevent puffing during baking.
  2. Cook the Pancetta: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced pancetta and cook until crisp and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and drain excess fat on paper towels.
  3. Prepare the Cranberry Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine fresh cranberries with honey. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until cranberries soften and release juices, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. Assemble the Tart: Spread the cranberry mixture evenly over the puff pastry base, leaving a small border around the edges. Layer slices of Brie on top of the cranberries, then sprinkle the cooked pancetta evenly. Finally, scatter fresh thyme leaves over the tart.
  5. Bake Until Golden: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the tart for 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the Brie is melted and bubbly. Monitor to avoid burning.
  6. Cool and Serve: Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and easier slicing.

Notes

  • Use high-quality Brie for a creamier and more flavorful tart.
  • Cook pancetta thoroughly for a crispy texture that contrasts with the Brie and cranberries.
  • Use honey sparingly to maintain a balanced tartness in the cranberry layer.
  • Chill puff pastry before baking to improve puff and flakiness.
  • Fresh thyme provides a bright herbal flavor that dried thyme cannot match.
  • A tart pan with a removable bottom makes serving easier and helps keep the crust intact.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cranberry Brie Tart, Pancetta Tart, Festive Appetizer, Puff Pastry Tart, Holiday Tart, Savory Tart, Brie Cheese Recipe