These Cranberry Brie Knots are a delightful appetizer or side dish, perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a burst of flavors. These knots are soft, chewy, and buttery, filled with creamy Brie cheese and sweet-tart cranberry sauce. The combination of textures and tastes is simply irresistible.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this recipe because it is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort. The use of refrigerated pizza dough makes the process quick and convenient, while the addition of Brie and cranberry sauce elevates the dish to a gourmet level. The buttery, herbed topping adds a final touch of deliciousness that will have everyone asking for more. These knots are not only visually appealing but also offer a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 28 ounces refrigerated pizza dough, at room temperature
- One 4-ounce wheel Brie
- All-purpose flour, for dusting
- 3/4 cup prepared whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Preparation:
Step 1:
Begin by brushing the bottom of a rimmed baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This ensures that the knots won’t stick and will bake evenly. Place the refrigerated pizza dough on the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out slightly. Brush the top of the dough with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out while rising.
Step 2:
Cover the dough lightly with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature until it has nearly doubled in size. This process usually takes about 1 hour. Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for achieving a light and airy texture in the baked knots.
Step 3:
While the dough is resting, prepare the Brie. Remove the rind from the sides of the Brie wheel. This step is important as the rind can become tough during baking. Cut the Brie into 18 equal cubes. These cubes will be nestled into the knots, providing a creamy, decadent filling.
Step 4:
Lightly flour a work surface to prevent the dough from sticking. Shape the rested dough into an 18-by-4-inch rectangle. This rectangular shape makes it easier to slice the dough into even strips. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into eighteen 1-inch-wide strips.
Step 5:
Roll each strip of dough into a 10-inch rope. Tying these ropes into knots creates the distinctive shape of the Cranberry Brie Knots. Tie each rope into a knot, tucking the ends underneath to secure the shape. Place the knots on two baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Let the knots rest until they are puffed, about 40–45 minutes. This second rise allows the knots to become even lighter and more tender.
Step 6:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), positioning racks in the upper and lower thirds. This ensures even baking and browning of the knots.
Step 7:
Cut a small slit in each knot with a paring knife and press a well in the center. Spoon about 1/4 teaspoon of prepared whole berry cranberry sauce into the well of each knot. Top with a cube of Brie. The cranberry sauce adds a sweet-tart contrast to the creamy Brie, creating a delightful flavor combination.
Step 8:
Brush the tops of the knots with 4 tablespoons of the melted butter. This adds richness and helps the knots brown beautifully. Sprinkle the knots with Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper. These seasonings enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Step 9:
Bake the knots for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Monitor the knots closely during baking to prevent them from burning. Let them cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Step 10:
While the knots are baking, stir together the remaining cranberry sauce and 2 tablespoons of melted butter in a small bowl. This creates a delicious dipping sauce to serve alongside the warm knots.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Cranberry Brie Knots warm as an appetizer or side dish. They pair perfectly with roasted turkey, ham, or other holiday main courses. They are also a fantastic addition to a cheese board or charcuterie platter. For a vegetarian option, serve them with a salad or vegetable soup.
Tips:
- To save time, you can prepare the knots ahead of time and bake them just before serving.
- If you don’t have Brie, you can substitute it with Camembert or another creamy cheese.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce.
- Make sure the pizza dough is at room temperature for easier handling and shaping.
- Brush the baking sheets with olive oil or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including rising time)
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 250 per knot
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
Conclusion
Cranberry Brie Knots are a delightful and festive treat that is sure to impress your guests. The combination of creamy Brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and buttery, herbed dough is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a delicious appetizer to share, these knots are a perfect choice. With their ease of preparation and stunning presentation, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Questions and Answers about this recipe
- Can I make these knots ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the knots ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Can I freeze the Cranberry Brie Knots? It is best to bake them before freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a low oven until warmed through.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can substitute Brie with Camembert, Fontina, or another creamy cheese that melts well.
- Can I use homemade cranberry sauce? Absolutely! Homemade cranberry sauce will add an even more delicious and personal touch to these knots.
- How do I store leftover Cranberry Brie Knots? Store leftover knots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a low oven or microwave before serving.
