Cranberry & Brie Sausage Rolls – The Holiday Snack You’ll Make All Year Round

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There’s something truly magical about the holiday season—family gatherings, warm kitchens, and the smell of something delicious baking in the oven. One of my absolute favorite treats to whip up during this cozy season is my Cranberry & Brie Sausage Rolls. They’re festive, with that perfect blend of savory and sweet, and trust me, these won’t last long on the plate! I make a big batch for holiday parties, but every year, we find ourselves craving them even after the holiday decorations are packed away.

If you’re a fan of easy recipes that impress a crowd, this one’s for you! Let’s dive into why you’ll want to make these for your next gathering and answer some common questions along the way.

Why Cranberry & Brie? A Perfect Holiday Pairing

Cranberry and brie are a match made in culinary heaven! The creamy, rich brie pairs beautifully with the tartness of cranberry, all wrapped up with savory sausage and buttery, flaky puff pastry. Together, they create a balance of flavors that’s just a little bit fancy but still incredibly approachable and homey. Plus, the pop of cranberry red makes these rolls look extra festive!

Tips to Make the Best Cranberry & Brie Sausage Rolls

1. Go for Quality Sausage: Try using sausage meat with a little seasoning, like sage or fennel, to add even more depth. If you’re using whole sausages, simply remove the casings to make things easier.
2. Chill Your Brie: Brie can be tricky to work with since it’s so soft. Pop it in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before slicing to make it easier to handle. This trick works wonders for a neat, easy-to-roll filling.
3. Keep the Pastry Cold: Puff pastry can get sticky if it warms up too much, so keep it chilled until you’re ready to use it. Cold pastry also means a better rise and flakier texture in the oven!
4. Egg Wash for Shine: A quick brush of egg wash before baking gives your rolls that beautiful golden shine and helps the pastry become wonderfully crisp.
5. Add Fresh Herbs: If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a few fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, into the sausage mixture. It adds a beautiful aroma and an extra layer of flavor.

Cranberry & Brie Sausage Rolls Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sausage meat (about 4 sausages)
• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 oz brie cheese, chilled and sliced
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Fresh thyme or rosemary, optional
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Sausage: If using whole sausages, remove the casings and mix in any desired herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle about 12×10 inches.
4. Layer the Filling: Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce across the center of the pastry, leaving a small border on the edges. Lay the sausage meat down the middle, spreading it into an even layer. Top with slices of chilled brie.
5. Fold and Seal: Fold the pastry over the filling to create a log shape, pinching the seam and ends to seal. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
6. Egg Wash & Slice: Brush the top with beaten egg for a nice golden color. Slice into smaller rolls, about 2 inches each, and space them out on the baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Serve warm, and watch them disappear!

Common Questions About Cranberry & Brie Sausage Rolls

1. Can I make these sausage rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble these up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them unbaked, then pop them in the oven when you’re ready. They’re best fresh from the oven, but they’ll still be delicious if reheated.

2. Can I freeze them?
Yes! You can freeze them either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, arrange them on a tray, freeze until solid, then store in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If freezing after baking, let them cool completely, then wrap and freeze. Reheat in the oven for 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly! While brie pairs beautifully with cranberry, you could use gouda, camembert, or even a sharp cheddar for a twist on the flavor.

4. What type of sausage is best for these rolls?
Any sausage you love will work, but I recommend using a pork sausage with mild herbs or spices. Chicken or turkey sausage can work too, though it might be slightly leaner and less rich.

5. How do I keep the pastry flaky?
Keeping the pastry cold is key. If you’re making a large batch and the pastry gets warm, pop the rolls in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking. Also, avoid overfilling—too much filling can make the pastry soggy instead of flaky.

Serve Them Up & Enjoy!

There’s nothing quite like the moment you bite into a warm Cranberry & Brie Sausage Roll. They’re simple to make but deliver incredible flavor, making them a great addition to any holiday spread. Serve them with a little extra cranberry sauce on the side, or try a honey mustard dip for a different twist. Trust me—your family and friends will rave about these!

I hope these rolls bring as much joy to your home as they do to ours! I’d love to hear how they turn out for you, so leave a comment below and let me know. Happy baking, and happy holidays!

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