This Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath is a fun and tasty appetizer! Soft, flaky crescent dough wraps around rich brie cheese and crispy bacon, making it a crowd-pleaser at any party.
It’s super easy to make. Just roll it up, bake, and enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness when you pull it apart. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist snagging a piece (or two)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent roll dough: This is essential for the wreath’s flaky texture. If you can’t find crescent dough, puff pastry is a great alternative, although it might take a bit longer to bake.
Brie cheese: The star of this recipe! If you’re not a fan, try cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just ensure whatever you choose melts well.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a hearty element. For a vegetarian option, use sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. You could also try turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Dried prunes or figs: These are optional but add a nice sweetness. If you don’t have them, try using raisins or even chopped apples for a fresh twist.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme gives an aromatic touch. Feel free to use dried herbs if you don’t have fresh on hand, just use less (about 1 teaspoon).
How Do I Get a Golden and Crisp Wreath?
Achieving a golden, crispy crust is key for this recipe! Start by preheating your oven properly and using a good egg wash to create that shiny finish.
- Make sure your dough is fully sealed around the filling to prevent leaking.
- Brush the entire wreath with beaten egg just before baking for that beautiful color.
- Monitor your wreath as it bakes, as oven temperatures can vary. If it browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Letting it cool for a few minutes after baking also helps set the cheese, making it easier to pull apart without oozing everywhere!
How to Make a Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Wreath:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
- 6-8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
- 1/2 cup pitted prunes or dried figs, chopped (optional, for a sweet element)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: honey or fig jam for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 40-45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Preparing the Crescent Dough:
Unroll the crescent roll dough and carefully separate it into two rectangles. Pinch the perforated edges together to form one large rectangle. This will be the base for your wreath.
3. Scoring the Dough:
Using a knife or pizza cutter, score the dough into 12 equal strips, making sure they radiate outward from a central circle that you leave uncut (about 4 inches in diameter). This will shape the wreath.
4. Adding the Brie:
Place the slices of Brie evenly on the uncut center circle. The warm, melted cheese will be the delicious centerpiece!
5. Layering the Toppings:
Sprinkle the chopped cooked bacon, optional prunes or figs, green onions, and fresh herbs over the Brie. Spread them out evenly for a balanced flavor in every bite!
6. Twisting the Dough:
Starting with each strip of dough, twist it away from the center twice to showcase the filling. If needed, pinch the ends together to seal them in place. This twisting will give the wreath a beautiful design.
7. Applying the Egg Wash:
Brush the entire wreath with the beaten egg to give it a nice golden color when baking. This step enhances the presentation!
8. Baking the Wreath:
Place the wreath in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and puffed, and the Brie is all gooey and melted inside. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning!
9. Cooling Down:
Once baked, carefully remove the wreath from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This allows the cheese to set a little, making it easier to pull apart.
10. Serving:
Serve the wreath warm as a pull-apart appetizer. Drizzle with honey or serve with fig jam on the side for a delightful touch of sweetness!
This Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath is perfect for gatherings, adding a savory, cheesy twist to your snack table. Enjoy every bite! 🎉
Can I Use Different Cheese Instead of Brie?
Absolutely! While Brie offers a creamy texture, you can substitute it with other cheeses like camembert, cream cheese, or even a sharp cheddar for a tangier flavor. Just ensure whatever cheese you use melts well.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prep the wreath a few hours in advance! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Recipe?
Yes! You can omit the bacon and instead use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version. You might also consider adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch!