When it comes to impressive yet easy appetizers, the Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath stands out as a delightful choice for holiday parties and special gatherings. Combining savory bacon, creamy Brie, and a touch of sweetness from pepper jelly or cranberry sauce, this recipe is sure to please a crowd. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this delicious appetizer, explore variations, and answer common questions to ensure your wreath turns out perfectly every time, Bacon brie crescent wreath recipe.
What Is a Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath?
A Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath is a festive and flavorful appetizer made with crescent roll dough, Brie cheese, bacon, and a sweet and spicy jelly. The crescent dough forms a ring that’s filled with a mixture of Brie cheese and bacon, then topped with a sweet jelly or sauce. The result is a visually appealing and mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or any special occasion.
Ingredients Overview
Here’s a quick look at the ingredients you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
| Crescent rolls | 2 (8-ounce) tubes | Pre-packaged dough that forms the base |
| Brie cheese | 1 (12-ounce) wheel | Cut into cubes for easy melting and spreading |
| Bacon | 8 slices | Cooked and crumbled for a savory crunch |
| Pepper jelly or cranberry sauce | 1/3 cup | For a sweet and tangy flavor |
| Egg | 1 | Beaten, for brushing the dough |
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp | For seasoning the dough |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1 tsp | Adds a bit of spice |
| Chopped parsley | 1 tbsp | For garnish and a touch of color |
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Serving tray
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your Bacon brie crescent wreath recipe:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the dough will bake evenly and become golden brown.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the dough from sticking and make cleanup easier.
3. Arrange the Crescent Rolls
- Unroll the crescent rolls and separate each triangle.
- Place the triangles in a sunburst pattern on the prepared baking sheet. The pointed ends of the triangles should face outward, and the bases should slightly overlap to form a ring.
4. Add the Filling
- Spread a thin layer of pepper jelly (or cranberry sauce) evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Distribute the Brie cheese cubes evenly over the jelly.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the Brie.
5. Form the Wreath
- Fold the tips of the crescent triangles over the filling, tucking the dough underneath the base to secure it. This will create a ring shape with a filled center.
6. Finish and Bake
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Brush it over the top of the dough to give it a golden, glossy finish.
- Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over the wreath.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Garnish and Serve
- Once baked, carefully slide the parchment paper out from underneath the wreath and transfer it to a serving tray.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a festive touch.
- Cut into pieces and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like dehydrated tomatoes, nuts, or other types of cheese. Cranberries, jams, or other fruit spreads can also enhance the flavor profile.
- Keep the Dough Cold: For best results, keep the puff pastry or crescent roll dough cold while working with it. If the dough warms up, it can become difficult to handle and may lose its flaky texture.
- Check the Cheese: Ensure that the Brie cheese is well-contained within the dough to prevent it from oozing out during baking.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is melty and the dough is crispy.
FAQs
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the wreath up to a day in advance. Assemble the wreath, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to ensure it’s warm and crispy.
What Can I Use Instead of Pepper Jelly?
If you don’t have pepper jelly, cranberry sauce or apple chutney can be great alternatives. Both add a nice sweetness that complements the bacon and Brie.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover wreath in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze the Crescent Wreath?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled wreath before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Comparison: Crescent Rolls vs. Puff Pastry
Here’s a quick comparison of crescent rolls and puff pastry for this recipe:
| Feature | Crescent Rolls | Puff Pastry |
| Texture | Flaky and soft | Flaky and crisp |
| Preparation | Pre-packaged and easy | Requires thawing and handling |
| Flavor | Mild, buttery | Rich, buttery |
| Baking Time | 15-20 minutes | 20-25 minutes |
| Ease of Use | Very easy | Requires careful handling |
Both options work well, but puff pastry provides a slightly crispier texture, while crescent rolls are more convenient.
Conclusion
The Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath is an elegant and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any celebration. Its combination of creamy Brie, savory bacon, and sweet jelly makes it a crowd-pleaser, while the crescent roll dough creates a beautiful and festive presentation. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or bringing a dish to a potluck, this wreath is sure to impress your guests.
By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to create a perfect Bacon brie crescent wreath recipe every time. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings and garnishes to make it your own. Happy baking!
