Quick. What a wonderful word. Anyone else loving the holidays but also super burnt out?? It's almost the end, it's just around the corner. While I'm ready for a breath of fresh air until the next holiday rolls around, I'm trying to take in the last of the holiday joy.
And by joy I mean quick and easy recipes. Like this Quick + Creamy Cranberry Brie Flatbread.
There was a lot going on this holiday. A lot. Are you with me? I'm sure you are. This Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Frosting was on the table, not with out a few attempts at the buttercream because what are the holidays without a few, "Why did I think that would work?" moments. (For the record, don't add cold eggnog and cream to room temp butter and expect smooth buttercream. Palm meet face.) A shaved version of these Pancetta Roasted Brussel Sprouts graced the table along with a prime rib and potatoes au gratin. But when faced with needing an appetizer, I wasn't stressing.
Pulled a cranberry brie flatbread straight out of the freezer and let it thaw before baking it off, slicing and up and digging in. Sigh. Simplicity goals.
10 minute prep
To be honest, you'll probably be waiting longer for the oven to preheat than it takes to put together your Cranberry Brie Flatbread. The key? Those delicious naan style flatbreads. Premade and ready to go! They crisp up real nice in the oven so it tastes like you've been proofing that dough overnight.
While not required, but it's recommended to peel the rind off the brie. Then you can just use your hands to 'tear' the creamy brie into pieces small enough to scatter over the mascarpone.
Oh, wait. I didn't mention the mascarpone. The sneaky creamy cheese that's bringing a boost of richness to this no fuss cranberry brie flatbread.
Back of a spoon. Spread it on. Done. We can get down with that, right?
Bonus trick/tip: want fresh chopped herbs but the idea of pulling out a cutting board and knife is moderately nauseating? Keep the dishes in their cabinets because all you need is a pair of kitchen shears. Just cut the leaves from the rosemary spring in little pieces. You'll have chopped rosemary in seconds.
Quick + Creamy Cranberry Brie Flatbread
You like tasty things, that's why you're here right? I like to think so. As much as I'd like to think it's my charming personality and occasional humor, you're really here for the food. It's ok, me too.
Today, let's show up for the simplicity of this Quick + Creamy Cranberry Brie Flatbread that is ridiculously good and easy. The naan style flatbreads have just the right amount of chew and crisp up with a perfect crunch. The mascarpone cheese is mild but provides a base layer of creamy cheesy bliss that will keep the soft, flavor boosting brie in place.
In each chew you'll get a taste of savory cheese with a burst of tangy sweet from the fresh cranberries scattered across the flatbread. On the end of each bite, fresh rosemary brings holiday flavor that is clean and warming.
And as good as it tastes, it's going to feel twice as good when you're prepped, baked, and snacking on your cranberry brie flatbreads in 20 minutes.
So while we're stressing about New Years Eve plans, what to bring, or what to feed the family when there's nothing on the fridge and the house is still a war zone from the last holiday - be kind to yourself. Take it easy. Make it simple. Make it quick and creamy.
Quick + Creamy Cranberry Brie Flatbread
Ingredients
- 1 package [2 per package] Na'an style flatbreads (I used the Stonefire brand, rectangular shaped flatbreads.)
- 2 tablespoons mascarpone
- 6 ounces brie cheese (rind removed)
- ½ cup fresh cranberries
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (leaves removed and chopped fine¹)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Pull out a sheet pan large enough to fit both flatbreads or two small sheet pans.
- On each flatbread: spread 1 tablespoon mascarpone and 3 ounces of brie - you will need to break the brie into smaller pieces. Sprinkle with ¼ cup cranberries and half the full amount of fresh chopped rosemary.
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until the cheese is browned, gooey and the bottom of the flatbread is crisp.²
Vera rosato says
I am definitely going to make this…the whole idea is perfect for my laidback entertaining. I want to enjoy my guests, too!
Can you offer some substitutes for cranberries that are a sure fire substitute? I want to make this year ‘roun.
Thnx,
Vera
Zelda says
The mascarpone made this sweeter than I like for an appetizer. I know you don't suggest substituting cream cheese. Any other ideas?
Robin Dinsmore says
we absolutely love this appetizer this is the third year in a row we have had it for Thanksgiving. only change up is I don't use the normal Brie I use a soft spreadable Brie. all else is the same I started first thing in the morning and it lasts all the way through football games.
Lauren says
I'm so happy to hear that!
Grace says
I made this for Easter and am making it for Christmas! I make these for snacking type days🥰🥰 .it is an amazing taste. I just LOVE IT!
Stephanie says
Hi I got spreadable brie with no rind. Can I mix the marscapone with the brie?
Lauren says
I would do it in two layers, just to save the extra step of mixing together but either way should work!
Karen says
This is my very favorite appetizer for the holidays - I've made it many times and never tire of the compliments. The flavor combination is wonderful, it is SO, so easy and the presentation is Wow! Although I love cranberries I want to serve it this summer and I seem to recall seeing "somewhere" a list of alternate fruits/herbs to use. I'd like to take this to a Labor Day serving, but want to use something more seasonal. Since I can't locate the list I had, could you give me other suggestions.
Lauren says
Hi Karen - Thank you so much! This recipe is a big hit for us too. I'd recommend switching it up with a summery herb like basil or even mint! You could also switch up the cranberries to something like strawberries or even a sweet veggie like corn if you want something more savory. Hope that helps!
Allison says
Hello from Cape Cod!! This is my new favorite recipe. I make it all the time and have shared it with so many people. Thank you!!
Lauren says
Hello fellow Bay Stater!! Thank you so much for your review!
Val LaBore says
I made this recently for a thank you tea for some of my friends. They loved it, and this will be a new addition to my annual holiday teas.
Val
Lauren says
So glad you loved it! Thank you for the review Val!
Nancy says
Made this as a girls night appetizer and it was amazing! Loved it! We used dried cherries on one and cranberries on the other. Both were delicious. I must say the rosemary made all the difference in the flavor ~ it is a must to give just the right added dimension. Will definitely make this again. Thanks so much for the wonderful recipe!
Lauren says
So glad you loved it! The rosemary and cranberry combo is my favorite part!
Linda wilmarth says
Have you ever tried this with a drizzle of jam? I was thinking homemade cranberry jam. 🙂 thanks for the recipe! Looks amazing
Lauren says
I haven't tried it but that sounds delicious! Personally, I love the tartness of the fresh cranberries but if you find that too sour the jam would definitely be a great substitution!
Denise says
Any substitutions for the Brie or goat cheese ? Don’t care for either of those cheeses
Appetizer looks wonderful Marscapone cheese will be fine but just need something in place of Brie.
Lauren says
burrata!!