Easy Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree Recipe

There’s something magical about December mornings when the oven hums and buttery pastry fills the air. This Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree feels like that moment cozy, festive, and utterly irresistible. Golden puff pastry, creamy brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy pistachios come together in a flaky, fragrant centerpiece that’s almost too pretty to eat.

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

This recipe brings together everything wonderful about the holidays. It’s elegant but easy, fancy enough for Christmas Eve yet simple enough to make on a whim. The flavor balances sweet and savory perfectly gooey brie, bright cranberry, and nutty pistachios. It also works beautifully for both small family dinners and big parties. You can even assemble it ahead of time, chill it, then bake it just before guests arrive for fresh-from-the-oven aroma and golden perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list is short and joyful a handful of festive staples that shine when baked together. Puff pastry creates buttery layers. Brie melts into creamy pockets. Cranberry sauce adds tangy sweetness, and pistachios bring that lovely crunch. A hint of orange zest lifts everything with citrus brightness.
You’ll need:

• 2 sheets ready-rolled puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tsp water (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)
• All-purpose flour for dusting
• Baking paper

How to Make Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree

Step 1 – Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly dust your countertop with flour to keep the pastry from sticking.

Step 2 – Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Unroll both puff pastry sheets. Roll each slightly to ensure equal size and even thickness so the layers bake evenly and puff beautifully.

Step 3 – Add the Festive Layers

Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over one pastry sheet, leaving a small 1 cm border. Layer on the brie slices, sprinkle the chopped pistachios, and if you like, add a little orange zest for that fragrant holiday touch.

Step 4 – Shape the Christmas Tree

Gently place the second pastry sheet over the top. Press along the edges to seal. Cut out a large triangle shape to form your tree. Use leftover pastry scraps to create tiny stars or ornaments if you want to decorate the top.

Step 5 – Twist and Swirl

Slice horizontal branches along both sides of the triangle, leaving the center intact for the trunk. Then twist each branch outward to form a pretty spiral. It looks tricky but feels fun once you start twisting.

Step 6 – Brush and Bake

Brush the entire tree with egg wash for a shiny, golden finish. Bake for 22–25 minutes until puffed and deeply golden brown. The brie should bubble slightly, and the pastry should look crisp at the edges. Let it cool just a few minutes before serving.
Each slice has about 250 calories, with 6g protein and 20g carbs indulgent, satisfying, and totally worth it.

Expert Tips for Success

Work with cold pastry for the best layers. Don’t overload the filling too much brie or cranberry can make the center soggy. Seal the edges well before cutting and twisting. Use a pizza cutter for clean lines and brush with a second layer of egg wash midway for extra shine.
If you make it ahead, keep it unbaked in the fridge. Reheat leftovers in the oven to restore that crisp, flaky texture.

Flavor Variations & Creative Twists

Try swapping cranberry sauce for fig jam or apple butter for a sweeter touch. Use camembert or goat cheese instead of brie for a sharper flavor. Sprinkle in rosemary or thyme for a savory twist. For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and aquafaba instead of egg wash. Even nuts can change things up walnuts or almonds work beautifully too.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

Serve this Christmas tree warm, straight from the oven, on a big wooden board for maximum effect. It’s perfect as an appetizer or centerpiece on your festive table. Pair it with sparkling wine, fruity punch, or a crisp green salad. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs or a little extra orange zest for color and aroma. It’s as lovely to look at as it is to eat.

FAQs about Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree

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Final Thought

The Pistachio Cranberry Brie Swirl Christmas Tree isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration in pastry form. Each bite tastes like holiday cheer buttery, creamy, sweet, and nutty. It’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to earn a proud spot at your Christmas table. Make it, share it, and maybe even start a new tradition. For more festive ideas and inspiration, visit Pinterest or join our warm food-loving community on Facebook.

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