Name: Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath: A Cozy Holiday Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 package Crescent Roll Dough (Refrigerated dough for best results.); 8 ounces Brie Cheese (Can substitute with camembert.); 8 slices Bacon (Pre-cooked slices recommended.); 1/2 cup Cranberry Sauce (Homemade or store-bought.); 1 large Egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary (optional)

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself daydreaming about festive gatherings filled with laughter and delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. This year, I’m all in for impressive appetizers, and nothing steals the show quite like my Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath. This flaky crescent pastry, generously stuffed with creamy Brie, crispy bacon, and just the right hint of sweet cranberry sauce, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s not only easy to whip up—perfect for busy hosts—but also offers an eye-catching centerpiece for your table. Imagine your guests marveling at this stunning wreath as it emerges from the oven, golden brown and oozing with flavor. Are you ready to elevate your holiday entertaining with this delightful dish? Let’s dive into the details and get that festive spirit flowing!

Why is this recipe a holiday must-try?

Flaky Perfection: The crescent dough forms a wonderfully flaky and tender crust, making every bite a delight.
Melty Goodness: With rich Brie melting into a luxurious filling, your taste buds are in for a treat!
Savory Meets Sweet: The crispy bacon and sweet cranberry sauce create a captivating contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Effortlessly Impressive: It’s visually stunning, making it an effortless centerpiece for your holiday table.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep this dish in advance to save time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities more. Pair it with lighter sides like a fresh salad or serve alongside festive drinks for the perfect holiday gathering experience!

Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath Ingredients

For the Wreath

Crescent Roll Dough – Provides the flaky and tender base for the wreath; use refrigerated dough for best results.
Brie Cheese – Adds a creamy and rich flavor; camembert can be substituted for a different taste.
Bacon – Offers crispy texture and savory notes; pre-cooked slices are recommended for convenience.
Cranberry Sauce – Introduces sweetness and tartness that balances the richness of the Brie; homemade or store-bought works fine.
Egg (for egg wash) – Gives the finished product a golden, shiny appearance.

For Garnish

Fresh Rosemary (optional) – Adds a hint of herbal freshness to enhance the festive appearance.

This collection of ingredients is what makes the Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath an irresistible holiday centerpiece!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath doesn’t stick. This simple preparation will make for easy cleanup later and help achieve that golden, crispy exterior.

Step 2: Arrange the Crescent Dough
Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough and gently place it in a circular shape on the lined baking sheet. Overlap the dough pieces slightly to create a cohesive wreath, ensuring there are no gaps for the filling to leak out. This is the base of your delightful appetizer, ready to be filled with delicious flavors.

Step 3: Add the Filling
Sprinkle the chopped, crispy bacon evenly over the dough, followed by generous chunks of creamy Brie cheese. Drizzle sweet cranberry sauce over the top, ensuring that every bite of the Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath will be bursting with flavor. The combination of savory and sweet will make your appetizer irresistible!

Step 4: Shape and Seal the Wreath
Carefully fold the outer edges of the crescent dough over the filling, creating a beautiful wreath shape. Pinch and seal any openings to prevent the melted Brie from leaking out while baking. Take your time here to ensure a snug fit, which will help maintain the wreath’s lovely structure during cooking.

Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat an egg to create an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the outer edges of the dough to give your Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath a lovely golden-brown finish as it bakes. This step adds an appealing shine and enhances the visual appeal of your festive appetizer.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the wreath in your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary; you want that crispy, flaky texture. The mouthwatering aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling your appetizer is almost ready!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the wreath from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh rosemary over the top for a touch of herbal freshness and a beautiful finish. Slice into sections and serve warm to your guests, letting them enjoy this scrumptious Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath!

Variations & Substitutions for Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath

Feel free to let your creativity flow and tailor this recipe to your taste buds!

Cheese Swap: Use goat cheese or cheddar for a different flavor profile that still delivers elegance.
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for a luscious depth and a beautiful pop of color. It’s a delightful way to sneak in some greens!
Sweet Twist: Replace cranberry sauce with fig jam or apple chutney for a sophisticated sweetness that pairs beautifully with Brie.
Crunch Factor: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or sage with the filling for extra aromatic flair that will elevate the entire experience!
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. It’ll give an exciting zing to each bite.
Meat Variation: Swap bacon for prosciutto or pancetta for a gourmet twist. Both will bring rich, savory flavors that harmonize beautifully with the Brie.

For more delicious inspiration, check out my easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla or enjoy some green beans and potatoes with bacon as a fantastic side. Your holiday table could be the talk of the town with these complementary dishes!

How to Store and Freeze Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath

Fridge: Store leftover Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave to restore some of that flaky texture.

Freezer: Wrap the cooled wreath tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Make-Ahead: Assemble the wreath a few hours in advance and store in the fridge until ready to bake. This helps save time and allows you to enjoy your gathering more.

Reheating: To reheat, place the wreath on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisped again.

Expert Tips for Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath

Cold Dough Advantage: Using cold crescent dough makes it easier to handle and shape without sticking together.
Cook Bacon Crisply: Make sure the bacon is pre-cooked until crispy; this enhances texture and avoids a soggy filling.
Mind the Filling: Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks during baking. A little goes a long way for the Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath!
Cooling Time: Allow the wreath to cool slightly before serving. This prevents burns from the hot, melted Brie.
Egg Wash Essentials: Don’t skip the egg wash! It adds that attractive golden gloss that makes your appetizer even more inviting.

Make Ahead Options

These Bacon Brie Crescent Wreaths are perfect for busy holiday entertaining! You can assemble the entire wreath up to 24 hours in advance. After shaping it, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. To ensure the dough stays flaky, avoid applying the egg wash until just before baking. When you’re ready to impress your guests, remove it from the fridge, apply the egg wash, and bake as directed for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown. This prep-ahead option saves you valuable time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the festivities without sacrificing flavor or quality!

What to Serve with Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath

As the mouthwatering aroma of the Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath fills your kitchen, it’s time to think about the perfect sides and accompaniments to create a delightful meal experience.

Crispy Green Salad:
A fresh salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette adds a crisp balance to the richness of the wreath. The acidity in the dressing will enhance the savory elements of your dish.
Roasted Vegetables:
Seasoned roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots offer a hearty, earthy contrast. Their caramelized sweetness rounds out the flavor profile beautifully while providing a satisfying texture.
Creamy Potato Mash:
Fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes offer a comforting, creamy element that pairs perfectly with the savory wreath. It’s like a warm hug on your plate, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Savory Garlic Breadsticks:
Soft, warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter can be a delightful addition. They complement the wreath while serving as a vehicle to scoop up any gooey leftovers.
Sparkling Apple Cider:
Serve a chilled glass of sparkling apple cider alongside your wreath for a festive touch. The fizzy sips will elevate the flavors while keeping things refreshing.
Chocolate Fondue:
For dessert, consider a fun chocolate fondue. The indulgent sweetness contrasts wonderfully with the savory wreath, leaving your guests with a delightful mix of flavors to savor after the main attraction.

Elevate your holiday gathering by thoughtfully pairing your Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath with these delightful sides and drinks, creating a meal that your guests will rave about long after they leave your table!

Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath Recipe FAQs

What kind of crescent roll dough should I use?
I recommend using refrigerated crescent roll dough for the best results. It provides the flaky and tender base essential for the wreath. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making it from scratch, but store-bought is a lot easier for busy hosts!

How should I store leftovers from the Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath?
Leftover Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in a toaster oven or microwave, though the toaster oven is my personal favorite for restoring that lovely flaky texture.

Can I freeze the Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled wreath tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re set to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What if my filling leaks during baking?
To prevent leaks, be sure not to overfill the crescent dough and carefully seal the edges. If you do encounter some leakage, it’s no disaster! Just keep an eye on it while baking, and if some Brie escapes, it can create a delicious cheesy crust on the baking sheet.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
While the Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath includes common allergens like cheese and gluten, you can easily modify it. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crescent roll dough. If you need a dairy-free version, there are plant-based cheeses available that can replace the Brie. Always double-check ingredients for potential allergens per your guests’ diets!

Can I prepare the wreath ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire wreath a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This make-ahead tip is a wonderful way to save time when you’re busy hosting, allowing you to focus on enjoying the festivities!