Name: Golden Brie-Filled Garlic Knot Holiday Wreath
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chopped pecans; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Extra parsley for garnish

During the holiday season, there’s nothing more inviting than the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your home. One of the most delightful recipes to share with family and friends is the Golden Brie-Filled Garlic Knot Holiday Wreath. This beautiful, buttery wreath not only graces your table but also leaves guests swooning over the rich, melty Brie cheese that awaits inside each delightful knot. Imagine the joy of tearing into a golden, crisp exterior, only to discover the rich and creamy Brie enveloped by fragrant garlic and herbs. This recipe is simple yet elegant—a true crowd-pleaser that adds a festive touch to any gathering.

The appeal of this Golden Brie-Filled Garlic Knot Holiday Wreath goes beyond its deliciousness. It combines flavors that complement each other perfectly—from the nuttiness of pecans to the warmth of fresh parsley and garlic. Not only does it taste divine, but the visual charm of the wreath shape enhances the festive atmosphere, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for your holiday table. It’s also incredibly simple to prepare, involving straightforward steps that even beginner cooks can master with ease. Plus, it’s a wonderful dish that invites customizations, allowing you to make it your own!

Perfect for celebrations, this Garlic Knot Holiday Wreath can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as part of a festive brunch. The best part? It can be enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven, or even at room temperature, making it a versatile option for your holiday festivities. So gather your loved ones, put on some holiday tunes, and get ready to indulge in this delightful, signature dish!

Why You’ll Love This Golden Brie-Filled Garlic Knot Holiday Wreath

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich Brie, savory garlic, and crunchy pecans creates a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this wreath comes together in no time.
Stunning Presentation: The wreath shape adds a festive touch to your holiday table, making it the focal point of your appetizer spread.
Perfect for Sharing: Tear apart the knots to enjoy with friends and family, creating a communal eating experience.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm or at room temperature, and pair it with your favorite dips and spreads.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start crafting your Golden Brie-Filled Garlic Knot Holiday Wreath, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and workspace for a smooth cooking experience. First and foremost, ensure you have a clean and organized countertop for rolling out the dough. You will need a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Gather your measuring cups and spoons, a mixing bowl for the garlic butter, and a pastry brush for applying the butter mixture.

Your ingredients should be at room temperature to ensure that the Brie is easily manipulated within the dough. It’s also helpful to have a sharp knife ready for cutting the dough and the Brie cheese into perfect bite-sized pieces. If desired, a round cake pan can help shape the wreath to ensure uniformity. Once you have everything in place, you’ll be well on your way to creating this stunning holiday masterpiece!

Ingredients

1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
8 oz Brie cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped pecans
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Extra parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial as it allows your Garlic Knot Holiday Wreath to bake evenly, yielding perfectly golden-brown knots.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will not only prevent the dough from sticking but also make for easy cleanup once your wreath is done baking.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Divide the pizza dough into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into your hands until they are slightly flattened. In the center of each piece, place a cube of Brie cheese.

Step 4: Create the Knots

Carefully pinch the edges together, sealing the Brie inside. Make sure the seam is well-sealed to prevent any cheese from leaking out during baking. Once sealed, roll each piece back into a ball shape.

Step 5: Form the Wreath

Arrange the dough balls in a circular formation on your lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re close but not overcrowded. The dough will puff up while baking, so they should touch slightly.

Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the minced garlic. Using a pastry brush, generously apply this mixture over each dough ball, ensuring they are well-coated for enhanced flavor.

Step 7: Season the Wreath

Evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans, parsley, sea salt, black pepper, and an optional pinch of red pepper flakes over the dough balls. This step adds a wonderful crunch and extra flavor to your wreath.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the knots are golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing as the wreath bakes!

Step 9: Final Touches

Once baked, remove the wreath from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color to your beautiful wreath.

Variations

Protein: For an added protein boost, consider including small pieces of cooked bacon or diced ham within the dough balls.
Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes for a hearty, savory twist.
Spices: Experiment with other seasonings like Italian herbs, garlic powder, or smoked paprika to create unique flavor profiles.

Cooking Notes

Ensure the Brie is at room temperature for easy stuffing; hard cheese can be challenging to melt.
If using homemade pizza dough, allow it to rest for 30 minutes before shaping for optimal texture.
For an even richer flavor, try using herb-infused butter instead of plain melted butter.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days, reheating in the oven to restore crispness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your wreath with a selection of tangy dipping sauces like balsamic glaze or a creamy garlic aioli.
Serve alongside a festive charcuterie board for a delightful appetizer spread at your holiday gathering.

Tips

To ensure even baking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time.
Feel free to customize the filling according to your favorite flavors and available ingredients.
For extra flair, brush the wreath with a mixture of honey and balsamic after baking for a sweet and savory finish.
If you have gluten-free guests, consider using gluten-free pizza dough for a suitable version of this recipe.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 300 calories per serving (based on 8 servings)
Protein: 7 grams
Sodium: 450 mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute Brie with Camembert, mozzarella, or any other cheese that melts well.

Can I make this wreath in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and cheese filling ahead of time, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with the wreath?

This savory wreath pairs wonderfully with various dips like marinara, pesto, or a herbed cream cheese spread.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispness before serving.

Conclusion

The Golden Brie-Filled Garlic Knot Holiday Wreath is not only a delectable addition to any holiday spread, but it also brings people together. With its irresistible flavors and gorgeous presentation, it’s destined to become a cherished dish in your holiday traditions. As you gather around this beautiful wreath, enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness it represents—a true celebration of togetherness and joy. Be sure to try it for your next holiday gathering and share your loved ones’ reactions with us! Please leave a comment below with your experiences, or share any twists you tried!