Cranberry and Brie Sausage Rolls are the ultimate combination of savory, cheesy, and slightly sweet, making them the perfect appetizer for any gathering or holiday celebration. Imagine a flaky, golden puff pastry wrapped around juicy sausage meat, creamy Brie, and sweet cranberry sauce—it’s a combination that’s truly hard to resist! These sausage rolls elevate the classic flavor by adding Brie for a creamy richness and cranberry sauce for a burst of sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory sausage. Whether you’re hosting a party or want to make an irresistible snack for your family, these sausage rolls are guaranteed to impress. With just a few ingredients, they come together effortlessly and will disappear just as quickly! Let’s make this comforting yet elegant treat.
2. Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) sausage meat
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 4 oz (115g) Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed if frozen
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
3. Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Sausage Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage meat, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth it out. Cut the pastry sheet in half lengthwise to create two long rectangles.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce down the center of each puff pastry rectangle.
- Divide the sausage mixture in half and form each half into a long log shape, placing it along the center of each puff pastry strip, on top of the cranberry sauce.
- Scatter the Brie cubes evenly along the sausage mixture.
- Roll and Seal:
- Carefully fold the pastry over the sausage mixture, sealing the edges by pressing them with your fingers or a fork. Make sure the seam is at the bottom.
- Cut each long roll into smaller pieces, about 2-3 inches in length, to create individual sausage rolls.
- Egg Wash and Garnish: Place the sausage rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the sausage is cooked through.
- Serve: Let the sausage rolls cool for a few minutes before serving warm. These are perfect as a party appetizer or as a snack!
4. How to Prepare
To prepare these Cranberry and Brie Sausage Rolls, start by mixing the sausage meat with thyme, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors. The puff pastry is then rolled out and cut into two long strips, each filled with a layer of cranberry sauce, followed by sausage meat and creamy cubes of Brie. The puff pastry is folded over to encase the filling and sealed tightly to keep everything inside. After cutting the long rolls into smaller pieces, an egg wash gives them that beautiful golden color as they bake, while the sesame seeds provide a bit of extra crunch. These rolls are baked to golden perfection and are best served warm for that gooey Brie goodness.
5. Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe makes 12-16 sausage rolls, perfect for sharing as an appetizer or snack.
7. FAQs
Q1: Can I use pre-made sausage links instead of sausage meat?
A: Yes, you can use sausage links if that’s what you have on hand. Just remove the casing and use the meat inside, then proceed with the recipe.
Q2: Can I prepare these sausage rolls ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Q3: Can I freeze these sausage rolls?
A: Yes, these sausage rolls freeze beautifully! You can freeze them before baking by placing them on a tray until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from frozen—just add about 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
Q4: Can I substitute the Brie with another type of cheese?
A: Definitely! Camembert or even a soft goat cheese would work well if you prefer a different flavor. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well.
Q5: What can I serve these sausage rolls with?
A: These sausage rolls are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with extra cranberry sauce or even a honey mustard dip for a delightful contrast of flavors.
8. Conclusion
Cranberry and Brie Sausage Rolls are the perfect savory treat with a festive twist. The flaky puff pastry encases a savory sausage filling, accented by sweet cranberry sauce and creamy Brie, creating a flavor combination that is simply irresistible. These sausage rolls are easy enough to whip up for a weeknight snack but elegant enough for any special occasion, especially around the holidays. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends at a party or cozying up with them at home, they’re sure to delight everyone with their rich, comforting flavors. The balance of savory sausage, sweet cranberry, and creamy cheese in every bite makes them unforgettable. So, get ready to fill your home with the wonderful aroma of these freshly baked sausage rolls and enjoy this delicious and festive twist on a classic. Happy baking!