Chef Mitchell preparing Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath at a French culinary workshop and was instantly captivated. After experimenting with different ingredients and techniques, I perfected this version that balances the richness of brie with the salty crunch of bacon. It has since become a staple at my gatherings, always receiving rave reviews. Sharing this recipe means sharing a piece of my culinary journey."

With over a decade of experience in French cuisine, I specialize in creating elegant appetizers that wow guests. My passion for food drives me to explore new flavors and techniques while sticking to classic French traditions. Each recipe I craft is a blend of creativity and culinary skill.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath served on a plate

Why This Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath Recipe Works

This recipe combines the luxurious flavors of brie cheese and crispy bacon, making it a crowd-pleaser. The puff pastry adds a light, flaky texture that beautifully contrasts the rich filling. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an easy yet impressive dish to prepare. The wreath shape not only looks stunning but also makes for easy serving.

Using fresh herbs, like thyme, enhances the overall flavor profile, adding an aromatic touch to the dish. The sweet honey drizzled on top balances the saltiness of the bacon, creating a harmonious blend. Perfectly baked, the outside becomes golden and crisp, while the inside remains gooey and delicious.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, ensure your puff pastry is well-chilled before working with it. This helps achieve maximum flakiness during baking. Additionally, using high-quality brie will elevate the dish even further, providing a creamier texture and richer flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the wreath ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.

If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a similar umami flavor. You could also use chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for a fresh alternative. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning to maintain a flavorful balance.

The pastry is done when it turns a deep golden brown and is puffed up. You can also check the internal temperature; it should be around 165°F (74°C). The cheese inside should be bubbly and gooey. Keep an eye on it as ovens can vary.

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pastry wreath. Assemble it, wrap it well in plastic wrap, and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, but add extra time to the baking.

This delightful wreath pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Serve it alongside a selection of crackers, sliced baguette, or a fresh salad for contrast. Adding a sweet and tangy dipping sauce, such as a cranberry or fig jam, enhances the flavor experience.

If stored properly in an airtight container, the Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore some of the original crispiness before serving again.

Certainly! You can assemble the wreath in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining, allowing you to focus on other preparations while still serving a delicious dish.

To reheat, place the wreath back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps to retain the pastry's flakiness and ensures the cheese is melty without becoming rubbery.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The pastry turns out dry and lacks moisture.

Solution: Ensure not to overbake the pastry. If this happens, serve with a dipping sauce to add moisture. You can also brush the pastry with melted butter before baking for added richness.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The pastry is soft and lacks the desired crispiness.

Solution: Make sure your oven is properly preheated before baking. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, which can trap steam. If needed, you can place the wreath on a preheated baking stone to enhance crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The exterior of the wreath is burnt or too dark.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, keep an eye on the pastry while it bakes, and consider covering it with foil if it browns too quickly. Always follow the recommended baking time and visual cues for doneness.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The inside of the wreath is not fully cooked.

Recovery: If the outer pastry is done but the center is still cold, you can cover it loosely with foil and return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and warm throughout.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outer layer is charred while the inside remains uncooked.

Prevention: Lower the baking temperature and increase the baking time to allow the inside to cook through without burning the outside. Keep a close watch and adjust as necessary during baking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, balance it with a pinch of salt or add a splash of vinegar for acidity.

Too Salty: If the dish is too salty, serve it with a side of unsalted crackers or bread to absorb some saltiness.

Bland: If the taste is bland, enhance the flavors with more herbs or spices, and consider adding a touch of lemon juice for brightness.

Fresh ingredients for Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath

Essential Ingredients for Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath

The key to a delicious Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath lies in the quality of its ingredients. Opt for a good quality brie that melts beautifully and provides a rich flavor. The bacon should be crispy, adding texture and saltiness that complements the creamy cheese. Puff pastry must be fresh and cold to ensure it puffs up nicely during baking.

Using fresh herbs, such as thyme, elevates the dish with an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor. Honey adds a pleasant sweetness, balancing the savory elements and creating a sophisticated taste experience. Always use high-quality ingredients for the best results.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Brie Cheese: Choose a soft, creamy brie for the best melting texture. Look for brie that has a pleasant aroma and a smooth rind. Avoid brie that is overly firm or has an off smell.
  • Bacon: Select thick-cut bacon for a satisfying crunch and meaty flavor. Cooking it until crispy will enhance its texture and prevent it from making the pastry soggy.
  • Puff Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is well-chilled before handling. Thaw it in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature for optimal results. Look for high-quality, all-butter puff pastry for the best flavor.
Cooking process for Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making the Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath is straightforward and fun. Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then prepare your puff pastry. Layer the brie and bacon in the center, and wrap it up using the pastry strips. Baking it to a golden brown provides a visual feast while enhancing the flavors inside.

To achieve perfect results, ensure your oven is preheated and carefully monitor the baking time. Each oven is different, so adjust as necessary. The key is to have a beautifully golden exterior and a gooey, melty interior that will delight your guests.

Key Technique for Perfect Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath

The most crucial technique for a successful Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath is ensuring your puff pastry is properly chilled and handled minimally. This will allow the layers to separate and puff beautifully during baking. Additionally, using a quality brie that melts well will contribute to the overall texture and flavor of the dish.

Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons honey
    For drizzling
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    For added flavor
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
    Chopped
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb bacon, diced
    Cooked until crispy
  • 1 round brie cheese (about 8 oz)
    Softened
  • 1 sheet puff pastry
    Thawed
  • 1 egg
    Beaten for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon honey
    For drizzling
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
    Chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
    To taste
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
    For flavor

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bacon

    In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels.

  2. Prepare Puff Pastry

    Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to smooth any creases.

  3. Cut the Pastry

    Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into strips, about 1 inch wide, around the edges of the round.

  4. Add Brie and Bacon

    Place the brie in the center of the pastry. Top with crispy bacon, thyme, honey, pepper, garlic, and onion powder.

  5. Wrap the Brie

    Fold the pastry strips over the brie, creating a wreath shape. Brush with beaten egg.

  6. Bake

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

  7. Add Finishing Touches

    Remove from the oven, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and parsley before serving.

  8. Serve

    Let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with crackers or sliced baguette.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store the Bacon Brie Pastry Wreath in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it before baking and cook it when you're ready to enjoy it.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the wreath with an assortment of crackers, fresh baguette slices, or a refreshing salad for a well-rounded appetizer display. Pair with a sweet jam or chutney for an added dimension of flavor.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as camembert or goat cheese, for a unique twist. Additionally, incorporating vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can add freshness and color to the wreath.