There is nothing quite like the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy brought together in this Cranberry Brie Filo Crackers Recipe. Imagine flaky, golden filo pastry wrapped around creamy brie and tangy cranberry sauce, sprinkled with toasted almond flakes and the subtle crunch of black sesame seeds. These crackers are not only a feast for the senses but also a delightful appetizer that feels elegant yet effortless. Whether serving guests or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to crowd-pleasers for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cranberry Brie Filo Crackers Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every component plays a special role—from the delicate crispness of filo to the creamy richness of brie and the vibrant pop of cranberry sauce, all accented by a satisfying crunch from almonds and sesame seeds.
- 6 sheets frozen filo pastry, thawed: Provides an ultra-light, crispy texture that wraps the filling perfectly.
- 50g butter, melted: Brushed between layers to ensure golden browning and a buttery finish.
- 250g brie, cut into long slices: Adds a luscious, creamy element that melts beautifully inside.
- 275g cranberry sauce: Offers a tart sweetness that complements the cheese flawlessly.
- ¼ cup flaked almonds: Brings a nutty crunch contrasting nicely with the softer ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds: Adds subtle earthiness and an eye-catching hint of color.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Filo Crackers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Workspace and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining two large baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect baking. Thaw your filo pastry sheets and keep any unused sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out. Melt the butter so it’s ready for brushing. Slice the brie into long, slender pieces for even layering. Have your cranberry sauce, flaked almonds, and black sesame seeds out and ready to go.
Step 2: Layer Filo Sheets
Lay one sheet of filo pastry flat and brush it lightly with melted butter. Then place a second sheet directly on top and brush it with butter as well. This double layer forms the sturdy yet delicate base for your crackers, ensuring they hold the filling without falling apart.
Step 3: Add Filling
Spoon about 1.5 teaspoons of the vibrant cranberry sauce onto the layered filo about an inch from one short edge, shaping it into a narrow stripe. Leave roughly 1.5 inches free along the long sides to give yourself room for folding. Next, arrange the luscious brie slices neatly over the cranberry stripe, then sprinkle the flaked almonds and black sesame seeds on top for that irresistible crunch and contrast.
Step 4: Fold and Roll Crackers
Carefully fold the short edge of the filo closest to the filling over the mixture to keep everything tucked inside. As you roll the filo into a tight log, fold the two long side edges inward halfway through to create a neat, compact packet. This rolling technique locks all the delicious flavors inside within a perfectly shaped cracker.
Step 5: Slice and Arrange
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice your rolled filo log into bite-sized pieces, about 1.5 to 2 inches each. Transfer the crackers carefully to your prepared baking sheets, spacing them with a little gap to ensure even baking. Repeat these rolling and slicing steps until you’ve used all the filo sheets and fillings.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake your assembled cranberry brie filo crackers for 12 to 18 minutes or until the pastry turns a beautiful golden brown, becomes puffed, and crisps up wonderfully. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary, and you want that perfect crunch without any burning.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes to set up. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps maintain their crisp texture. Serve these delightful Cranberry Brie Filo Crackers warm or at room temperature for the best experience. If you have any leftovers, store them carefully and gently reheat before serving again.
How to Serve Cranberry Brie Filo Crackers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary leaves adds an herbal aroma that beautifully complements the creamy brie and sweet cranberries. You can also lightly dust the finished crackers with a tiny bit of flaky sea salt to enhance all the flavors and add a slight savory punch.
Side Dishes
Pair these crackers with a crisp green salad featuring bitter arugula or peppery radicchio to balance the richness. A glass of sparkling wine or a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc makes an ideal companion, cutting through the richness with refreshing acidity.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, consider arranging the crackers on a wooden charcuterie board alongside slices of prosciutto, fig jam, and mixed nuts. Stack them in little bundles tied with a thin rosemary sprig for an elegant appetizer at your next gathering. They’re as stunning to look at as they are to eat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cranberry Brie Filo Crackers in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay crisp and delicious for 1 to 2 days, making them suitable for quick snacks or a last-minute party treat.
Freezing
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze unbaked rolls prior to slicing them into crackers. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to one month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and slice before baking as usual.
Reheating
To restore that fresh-baked crispness, reheat the crackers in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy, and the oven method ensures they regain their delicate flakiness.
FAQs
Can I use cream cheese instead of brie?
While cream cheese is softer and milder, it doesn’t provide the same richness and melt that brie does. Brie offers a distinctive buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with cranberry sauce, so for the true Cranberry Brie Filo Crackers Recipe experience, brie is recommended.
Are there good alternatives if I don’t have filo pastry?
Filo pastry is essential here for its crispness and light flakiness. Puff pastry could be a substitute, but it will result in a denser, heavier cracker. If you want something closer to the original texture, fresh filo sheets or phyllo dough are best.
Can I make these crackers vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the brie with a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well. Use vegan butter or olive oil instead of regular butter for brushing the filo. Keep in mind flavors and textures will change but you’ll still have a delicious treat.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
This Cranberry Brie Filo Crackers Recipe takes about one hour from start to finish, including baking and cooling. It’s a manageable project even for busy cooks looking to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.
Can I prepare these crackers ahead of a party?
You can assemble and bake them a few hours ahead, then leave at room temperature until serving. Just refresh them briefly in the oven before guests arrive to bring back their crispness and warmth.
Final Thoughts
There’s an undeniable joy in serving something as simple yet spectacular as the Cranberry Brie Filo Crackers Recipe. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that will wow your guests and keep everyone coming back for more. Give this recipe a try for your next gathering or cozy night in, and watch how it becomes a beloved favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Cranberry Brie Filo Crackers Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cranberry Brie Filo Crackers are an elegant and delicious appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Crisp, flaky filo pastry envelopes a delightful combination of creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, crunchy almond flakes, and nutty black sesame seeds. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, these bite-sized crackers make a beautiful addition to any cheese board or party platter.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 6 sheets frozen filo pastry, thawed
- 50g butter, melted
Filling & Topping
- 250g brie, cut into long slices
- 275g cranberry sauce
- ¼ cup flaked almonds
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare Workspace and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Thaw the filo pastry sheets and keep any unused sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out. Melt the 50g of butter, slice the chilled brie into small, long pieces, and gather the cranberry sauce, flaked almonds, and black sesame seeds ready for assembly.
- Layer Filo Sheets: Place one filo sheet flat on your work surface and lightly brush it with melted butter. Lay a second filo sheet on top and brush it with butter as well. These two buttered sheets will form the base for each cracker.
- Add Filling: Spoon approximately 1.5 teaspoons of cranberry sauce onto the layered filo, positioning it about 1 inch from the short edge and leaving about 1.5 inches clear on the long sides. Arrange the brie slices neatly over the cranberry sauce. Sprinkle flaked almonds and black sesame seeds evenly over the top for both flavor and texture.
- Fold and Roll Crackers: Fold the short edge of the filo closest to the filling over the cranberry and brie mixture. Begin rolling the filo tightly into a log shape. When you reach the halfway point, fold the long edges inward toward the center to create a neat packet and continue rolling until you have a compact log.
- Slice and Arrange: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the filo log into individual cracker-sized pieces approximately 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Carefully transfer the sliced pieces onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart to allow even baking. Repeat the layering, filling, rolling, and slicing process until all filo sheets and fillings are utilized.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the crackers for 12 to 18 minutes or until the filo pastry is puffed, beautifully golden brown, and crisp. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the crackers from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature for optimal crispness. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 to 2 days, and reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes to refresh the crisp texture.
Notes
- Keep filo sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.
- Be gentle when brushing butter to avoid tearing the delicate filo sheets.
- For a balanced flavor, use a good quality cranberry sauce—homemade or store-bought.
- You can substitute flaked almonds with other nuts such as pistachios or walnuts for variation.
- These crackers are best enjoyed fresh but can be refreshed in the oven to regain crispiness.
- Handle the rolled filo carefully when slicing to avoid cracking or crushing the layers.
