Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme
This Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme is a delightful appetizer that combines creamy Brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and crispy turkey strips on a flaky puff pastry crust. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any celebration, this dish showcases an elegant blend of savory and sweet flavors. Its simple preparation makes it a go-to choice for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can prepare this stunning tart in no time.
- Festive Flavors: The combination of cranberry and thyme adds a seasonal touch that elevates any occasion.
- Versatile Appetizer: Great for parties, holidays, or family gatheringsβthis tart fits seamlessly into any menu.
- Beautiful Presentation: The golden pastry and vibrant toppings create an eye-catching centerpiece.
- Crowd Pleaser: Rich flavors and appealing textures make this dish a favorite among all ages.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme, youβll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Skillet
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for baking the tart to perfection.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
- Rolling pin: Ensures the puff pastry is rolled out evenly for a consistent texture.
- Skillet: Perfect for cooking turkey strips until they are crispy.

Ingredients
For the Tart
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce, homemade or store-bought
- 4 ounces turkey strips, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
How to Make Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Place the rolled pastry onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Cook the Turkey Strips
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced turkey strips until they are crispy. Remove from heat and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Step 4: Assemble the Tart
Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the puff pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Layer sliced Brie cheese over the cranberry sauce.
Step 5: Add Turkey and Seasoning
Sprinkle the crispy turkey strips and fresh thyme leaves on top of the Brie. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 6: Create a Rustic Border
Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to form a rustic border. Brush these edges with beaten egg for a golden finish when baked.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove from oven, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, let cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme!
How to Serve Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme
This delightful Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance its flavors and presentation. Whether youβre hosting a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.
As an Elegant Appetizer
- Serve the tart warm, cut into bite-sized squares for easy handling.
- Pair with toothpicks for a fun finger food option at parties.
With Seasonal Salads
- Complement the tart with a light mixed greens salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness of the Brie and turkey.
Alongside Dipping Sauces
- Offer small bowls of cranberry relish or a balsamic glaze as dips to add extra flavor to each bite.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top each piece with additional fresh thyme leaves or edible flowers for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Perfect Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme
Creating the perfect Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your tart turns out beautifully every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh thyme and quality Brie cheese significantly enhance flavor.
- Preheat oven properly: Ensure your oven is preheated to 400Β°F (200Β°C) for even cooking.
- Donβt overfill: Avoid overloading the pastry with filling to prevent sogginess.
- Egg wash for shine: Brush the edges of the pastry with egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
- Cool before slicing: Allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts and easier serving.
Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme
Pairing side dishes with your Cranberry Brie Tart can complement its flavors and textures. Here are some excellent options:
-
Mixed Green Salad
A light salad with arugula, spinach, and slices of pear adds freshness. -
Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots bring warmth and earthiness. -
Sweet Potato Mash
Creamy sweet potato mash offers a touch of sweetness that pairs nicely. -
Garlic Breadsticks
Crispy breadsticks infused with garlic provide a crunchy contrast. -
Fruit Platter
A selection of fresh fruits like apples, grapes, and figs enhances the tartβs flavors. -
Cheese Board
An assortment of cheeses, crackers, and nuts creates a wonderful grazing option alongside the tart.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the preheating step: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps achieve a perfectly flaky crust.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure your Brie cheese is at room temperature. This allows it to melt beautifully and blend with the cranberry sauce.
- Overfilling the tart: Donβt pile on too much filling. Leave enough space around the edges of the pastry for it to rise and create that delightful border.
- Not seasoning properly: Seasoning enhances flavor. Taste your turkey strips and cranberry sauce, adjusting salt and pepper as needed before assembling.
- Ignoring the egg wash: Brushing the edges with an egg wash gives a golden, shiny finish that makes your tart visually appealing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Keep any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme
- Wrap the cooled tart tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be cautious as this may make the pastry soggy.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it to warm evenly without burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme:
Can I substitute other cheeses?
Yes, feel free to experiment! Cheddar or goat cheese can be great alternatives depending on your taste preference.
How can I customize my Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme?
You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch or swap thyme for rosemary for a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with this tart?
This tart pairs well with a simple salad or festive drinks. Itβs also perfect as part of a holiday appetizer spread!
How do I know when my tart is done baking?
Look for a golden brown crust and bubbling filling, which indicates that itβs ready to come out of the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips & Thyme is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can easily customize it by changing up ingredients or adding toppings. Give this recipe a tryβyouβll impress your guests and enjoy every savory-sweet bite!
Cranberry Brie Tart with Turkey Strips & Thyme
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Cranberry Brie Tart with turkey strips and thyme, a perfect appetizer for any festive gathering. This elegant dish features creamy Brie cheese layered over tangy cranberry sauce and crispy turkey strips, all encased in a flaky puff pastry crust. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this tart is sure to impress your guests with its savory-sweet combination and beautiful presentation. Easy to prepare, it allows you to focus on enjoying the moment rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 ounces turkey strips, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
- In a skillet, cook the diced turkey strips over medium heat until crispy, then drain excess oil.
- Spread cranberry sauce evenly on the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border. Layer sliced Brie cheese on top.
- Sprinkle crispy turkey strips and fresh thyme leaves over the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a rustic border and brush with beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and flaky.
- Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
