Beef Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath Easy Appetizer For Holiday – are you ready to transform your holiday entertaining with a dish that looks incredibly impressive but is unbelievably simple to create? I know I am always searching for recipes that deliver big on flavor and presentation without demanding hours in the kitchen, and this one truly delivers. Imagine a golden, flaky crescent wreath, artfully arranged, revealing pockets of rich, creamy melted brie and crispy, savory beef bacon with every pull. This isn’t just an appetizer; it’s an edible centerpiece that I promise will captivate your guests from the moment it hits the table.
While this particular festive wreath might be a more recent star in the culinary world, it cleverly combines beloved elements that have graced holiday tables for generations. From the convenience and versatility of store-bought crescent roll dough, a staple for quick and delicious baking, to the timeless elegance of baked brie, a universally adored creamy delight, this recipe brings together components synonymous with celebratory feasting. It’s a testament to modern ingenuity, marrying classic tastes into an accessible and stunning format that perfectly suits any festive gathering.
Why This Appetizer Becomes an Instant Favorite
People absolutely adore this dish not only for its irresistible flavor profile – the salty beef bacon perfectly balancing the buttery brie and soft pastry – but also for its remarkable ease of preparation. I find it offers maximum impact with minimal fuss, making the Beef Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath Easy Appetizer For Holiday a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any festive occasion. Get ready to impress everyone with this magnificent creation!
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough: I always opt for the classic Pillsbury brand because it’s consistently reliable and gives us that perfect flaky base. Make sure they are chilled until you’re ready to unroll them, as this makes them much easier to work with.
- 12-16 slices good quality beef bacon: This is where the magic really happens for our Beef Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath. Beef bacon offers a slightly different, richer flavor profile compared to pork bacon, and it pairs absolutely beautifully with the creamy brie. Look for thick-cut slices if you can find them; they hold up wonderfully during baking.
- 1 wheel (8-10 oz) Brie cheese: For this recipe, I recommend a ripe but firm Brie. You want it to melt luxuriously but not be overly runny before it even hits the oven. The rind is edible, but for a smoother texture inside the wreath, I personally prefer to trim it off or at least most of it, especially around the edges where it’s thicker.
- 1 large egg: This is for our essential egg wash. It’s what gives our crescent wreath that gorgeous, golden-brown, professional-looking sheen straight out of the oven.
- 1 teaspoon water: To whisk with the egg for the perfect consistency of our egg wash.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Just a pinch to sprinkle over the filling. It adds a lovely subtle spice that enhances the savory notes of the beef bacon and brie.
- Optional garnishes:
- 2 tablespoons honey or fig jam: A drizzle of honey or a dollop of fig jam post-baking adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory, salty, and creamy elements. It elevates this from a simple appetizer to something truly special for a holiday gathering.
- 1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped: Fresh herbs not only add a beautiful pop of color but also a fragrant, aromatic finish that signals a festive and delicious dish.
Preparation is Key for a Delicious Beef Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath
- First things first, let’s get our workspace ready and preheat that oven. You’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. Trust me on this one; parchment paper is your best friend here, preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze, especially with melted cheese!
- Now, let’s tackle the star of our savory filling: the beef bacon. In a large skillet, cook your 12-16 slices of beef bacon over medium heat until they are beautifully crispy. I like them firm but not burnt, with that perfect chew. This usually takes about 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon and your stove’s heat. Be sure to flip them occasionally for even cooking. Once cooked, transfer the bacon slices to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for ensuring our wreath isn’t overly greasy and that the bacon retains its wonderful texture inside the soft crescent dough. Once slightly cooled, crumble or roughly chop the beef bacon into smaller, manageable pieces – about ½-inch to 1-inch chunks are perfect.
- Next, let’s get our luxurious Brie cheese ready. As mentioned earlier, I usually prefer to trim off the thick white rind from the Brie wheel, or at least most of it. While edible, it can sometimes have a slightly tougher texture that I don’t always love in a melted dish like this. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the Brie into small, even cubes, roughly ½-inch to ¾-inch in size. We want pieces that will melt beautifully and distribute evenly throughout our wreath, ensuring every bite gets a taste of that creamy goodness.
- In a small bowl, prepare your egg wash. Whisk together the large egg and 1 teaspoon of water until they are well combined and slightly frothy. This simple mixture is going to give our Beef Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath that irresistible golden sheen. Set it aside for when we’re ready to brush it onto our assembled wreath.
Assembling Your Stunning Beef Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath
- This is where the fun begins and our beautiful wreath starts to take shape! Carefully unroll one can of crescent roll dough onto your parchment-lined baking sheet. Do not separate the individual triangles yet. Lay it out flat into a large rectangle. Now, gently press along the perforations to seal the seams, creating one large, cohesive sheet of dough. You might need to overlap the edges slightly and pinch them together. Repeat this process with the second can of crescent dough, creating another large rectangle.
- Once you have two large rectangles of dough, it’s time to create the “sunburst” or “starburst” pattern that forms the base of our wreath. Take the first rectangle of dough and place it directly onto the center of your prepared baking sheet. Now, take the second rectangle and place it overlapping the first, forming a large cross. From the center point where they overlap, gently cut the dough outwards into 16 even triangles. Essentially, you’re creating a large circle of dough with the pointed ends radiating outwards like sun rays, and the wider bases of the triangles forming a circle in the center. Ensure the points are all relatively even; a little imperfection is fine, it’s homemade after all! Leave a small circular space, about 3-4 inches in diameter, open in the very center of your arrangement.
- Now it’s time to add our delectable filling! Starting from the wider, inner edge of each crescent triangle (the part closest to the center hole), spoon a small amount of your crumbled beef bacon. You’ll want to distribute the bacon evenly among all 16 triangles. I find it easiest to place the filling closer to the base, not quite touching the center hole, leaving enough dough free to fold over.
- Following the beef bacon, scatter the cubed Brie cheese over the bacon, again focusing on the wider section of each triangle. Ensure each triangle gets a good share of the creamy Brie. This generous filling is what makes every bite of this Easy Appetizer so incredibly satisfying.
- Once all the bacon and Brie are in place, lightly sprinkle a touch of freshly ground black pepper over the filling. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in balancing the rich flavors.
- Now for the actual wreath shaping! Starting with one of the crescent triangles, take the pointed end and gently fold it over the filling, tucking it under the wider base towards the center of the wreath. Repeat this process with each of the remaining 15 triangles, bringing the points over the filling and tucking them under the dough to form a continuous circle. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy at first; you can gently pinch and shape the dough as you go to ensure everything is tucked in securely. The goal is to create a beautiful, enclosed circle with all the delicious filling safely nestled inside.
- Once all the points are tucked in and you have a complete wreath shape, take a moment to gently reshape it if needed, ensuring it’s a nice, even circle with the center hole still visible. This neat presentation is perfect for a holiday spread.
Baking Your Golden-Brown Holiday Appetizer
- With your beautiful Beef Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath perfectly assembled on the baking sheet, it’s time for the egg wash. Dip your pastry brush into the prepared egg and water mixture. Gently and evenly brush the entire surface of the crescent wreath with the egg wash. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. This wash will not only give your wreath that stunning golden-brown color but also a lovely, subtle sheen that makes it look incredibly appetizing and professional.
- Carefully transfer the baking sheet to your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Place it on the middle rack for even baking.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is puffed up, beautifully golden brown, and the Brie cheese is visibly melted and bubbly. I always keep a close eye on it during the last 5-10 minutes to prevent over-browning. Ovens can vary, so your exact baking time might be slightly different. You want that perfect crisp exterior and gooey interior.
- Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely incredible – a sure sign of a fantastic Beef Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath!
Finishing Touches and Serving Your Easy Appetizer
- Let your golden wreath cool on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes before attempting to transfer it. This brief cooling period helps the cheese set slightly and makes the wreath easier to handle without it falling apart. It also ensures it’s not too hot to eat immediately.
- This is the perfect moment to add those optional, but highly recommended, finishing touches. If you’re using honey or fig jam, now is the time to drizzle it generously over the warm wreath. The slight sweetness is truly a game-changer and elevates this savory treat to new heights. For a really festive touch, I love to warm the fig jam slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to make it easier to drizzle.
- Finally, if you’re using fresh herbs, finely chop your rosemary or thyme and sprinkle it over the top of the wreath. The vibrant green against the golden-brown dough and the rich fillings creates a stunning visual, making this Easy Appetizer For Holiday entertaining truly shine. The fresh aroma also adds another layer of sensory delight.
- Carefully transfer your gorgeous Beef Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath to a serving platter. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, though I personally think it’s at its absolute best when still slightly warm, allowing that Brie to remain wonderfully gooey. Cut it into individual slices or let your guests pull off pieces themselves. This festive and flavorful wreath is guaranteed to be a showstopper at any gathering, especially during the holiday season. You’ll find it disappears quickly, so be sure to grab a piece for yourself!
Conclusion:
Well, my friends, we’ve come to the end of our culinary journey, and I genuinely hope you’re as excited as I am about this incredible recipe. If you’ve been searching for that perfect dish that effortlessly combines elegance with sheer deliciousness, look no further. This creation isn’t just another appetizer; it’s a statement. It’s a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and flaky textures that truly sings on the palate, and I promise you, it will become an instant favorite in your recipe rotation. Imagine the collective “oohs” and “aahs” as you present such a beautifully golden, aroma-filled delight. It’s the kind of dish that looks incredibly impressive but secretly requires minimal effort on your part, making you look like a seasoned chef without breaking a sweat.
Why This Recipe is an Absolute Must-Try This Season
What makes this particular appetizer so special, you ask? It’s the alchemy that happens when premium beef bacon crisps up alongside gooey, melted brie, all encased within tender, golden-brown crescent dough. Every single bite delivers a burst of rich flavor – the salty crunch of the bacon, the mild, buttery notes of the brie, and the delicate, slightly sweet flakiness of the pastry. It’s a sophisticated flavor profile that appeals to everyone, from the most discerning foodies to the pickiest eaters. Plus, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a warm, cheesy, bacon-filled pastry, especially when it’s presented in such an inviting, festive wreath shape? It’s comfort food elevated to an art form, perfect for setting a joyful mood at any gathering, big or small.
When it comes to serving, you’ve got options galore to make this dish truly shine. While it’s absolutely divine on its own, I love to offer a few accompaniments. A small bowl of homemade cranberry sauce or a dollop of sweet fig jam provides a wonderful sweet-tart counterpoint that cuts through the richness beautifully. Alternatively, a zesty whole-grain mustard or a spicy jalapeño jelly can add a delightful kick. For beverages, consider pairing it with a crisp, dry Prosecco or a light-bodied Pinot Noir if you’re serving adults. Non-alcoholic options like sparkling apple cider or a festive cranberry-orange spritzer would be equally delightful. Garnish your platter with fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme, and perhaps a scattering of vibrant pomegranate seeds, to enhance its visual appeal and add an extra touch of holiday magic.
Unleash Your Inner Chef: Creative Variations and Customizations
Part of the joy of cooking is making a recipe your own, and this one is wonderfully adaptable. Don’t be afraid to experiment! If you’re not a fan of brie, you could easily swap it out for cream cheese, goat cheese for a tangier profile, or even a smoked provolone for a different depth of flavor. For the meat, while beef bacon is stellar, thin slices of prosciutto, pancetta, or even smoked turkey breast would work beautifully. Want to add more vegetables? Sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers can be folded into the filling for an extra layer of taste and texture. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill before baking can also brighten up the flavors significantly. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a sweet version? Omit the beef bacon, use cream cheese, and add thinly sliced apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey for a dessert wreath that’s just as impressive. You can also vary the shape, perhaps making individual crescent pinwheels for easy grab-and-go portions, or even smaller wreaths for a more intimate setting.
So, there you have it! I truly hope you’ll give this spectacular appetizer a try. It embodies everything wonderful about sharing delicious food with loved loved ones, especially during celebratory times. Imagine the delightful aromas filling your kitchen, the beautiful golden-brown presentation, and the sheer joy on everyone’s faces as they bite into this masterpiece. I am confident that the Beef Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath Easy Appetizer For Holiday will not only meet but exceed your expectations. Please, don’t hesitate to make it your own, add your unique twist, and most importantly, enjoy every single bite. After you’ve whipped up your own batch, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Share your photos, your variations, and your thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking, and happy feasting!
Beef Bacon Brie Crescent Wreath Easy Appetizer For Holiday
Transform your holiday entertaining with an impressive yet simple-to-create dish: a golden, flaky crescent wreath artfully arranged with pockets of rich, creamy melted brie and crispy, savory beef bacon. This edible centerpiece promises to captivate your guests from the moment it hits the table, combining beloved elements into a stunning format perfect for any festive gathering.
Ingredients
-
3 large onions, thinly sliced
-
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
-
3 tablespoons Balsamic vinegar
-
3 tablespoons brown sugar
-
3 tablespoons non-alcoholic red wine
-
8 slices beef bacon
-
2 (8 oz) tubes refrigerated crescent rolls
-
1 (12 oz) wheel Brie cheese
-
2 eggs, beaten
-
chives, chopped
Instructions
-
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. -
Step 2
Cook the 8 slices of beef bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until beautifully crispy (8-12 minutes). Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Once slightly cooled, crumble or roughly chop the beef bacon into ½-inch to 1-inch pieces. -
Step 3
Trim off most of the thick white rind from the 12 oz Brie cheese wheel. Cut the Brie into small, even cubes, roughly ½-inch to ¾-inch in size. -
Step 4
Prepare an egg wash using some of the beaten eggs. Set aside. -
Step 5
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, laying it flat into a large rectangle. Gently press along the perforations to seal the seams. Repeat with the second can of crescent dough. -
Step 6
Arrange the dough: Place the first rectangle onto the center of the baking sheet. Overlap with the second rectangle to form a large cross. From the center, cut the dough outwards into 16 even triangles, leaving a 3-4 inch circular space in the very center. -
Step 7
Spoon a small amount of the crumbled beef bacon onto the wider, inner edge of each crescent triangle (closest to the center hole). -
Step 8
Scatter the cubed Brie cheese over the bacon on each triangle, ensuring each gets a good share of the creamy Brie. -
Step 9
Starting with one triangle, take the pointed end and gently fold it over the filling, tucking it under the wider base towards the center of the wreath. Repeat with all 15 remaining triangles to form a continuous, enclosed circle. Gently pinch and shape the dough to secure the filling and maintain the wreath shape. -
Step 10
Evenly brush the entire surface of the assembled crescent wreath with the prepared egg wash. -
Step 11
Carefully transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is puffed, beautifully golden brown, and the Brie cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Step 12
Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes. -
Step 13
Optional: Sprinkle with chopped chives before serving. Carefully transfer to a serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.