Cranberry Brie Skewers with Rosemary Honey Glaze Recipe
If you’re looking for a fresh, festive appetizer that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate, these Cranberry Brie Skewers with Rosemary Honey Glaze are exactly what your next gathering needs. Combining creamy, buttery Brie with tart, vibrant cranberries and crunchy toasted nuts, all tied together by a luscious honey glaze infused with rosemary, this dish is a celebration in every bite. It’s simple, elegant, and bound to become an instant favorite on your appetizer menu.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, offering texture, flavor, or color that makes the Cranberry Brie Skewers with Rosemary Honey Glaze so memorable. You’ll love how easy it is to pull together these thoughtful basics into something spectacular.
- 8 oz Brie cheese: Soft and creamy, provides the rich, milky base that melts in your mouth.
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries: Bright and tart, they add a refreshing zing and a pop of festive color.
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans: Lightly toasted for crunch and a warm, nutty depth that complements the cheese and fruit.
- 2 tbsp honey: Natural sweetness to balance the tartness and enhance the glaze’s glossy finish.
- 1/2 tsp fresh rosemary: Finely chopped to infuse the honey glaze with an aromatic, piney note.
- Wooden skewers or toothpicks: Essential for showcasing the beautiful layers on each bite-sized skewer.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Skewers with Rosemary Honey Glaze
Step 1: Prepare Skewers
Start by threading a cube of Brie cheese onto your skewer, then slide on a fresh cranberry followed by a toasted walnut or pecan. Keep repeating this pattern until you use up all the ingredients. The combination of creamy, tart, and crunchy is what makes these skewers truly irresistible.
Step 2: Make the Rosemary Honey Glaze
Next, gently warm the honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the finely chopped rosemary and allow the mixture to heat for about 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. This simple infusion takes the glaze from ordinary to extraordinary, adding a subtle herbal aroma that beautifully complements the richness of the Brie.
Step 3: Drizzle and Serve
Arrange your carefully crafted skewers on a beautiful serving platter. Generously drizzle the warm rosemary honey glaze over the top, coating every skewer with a glossy, golden finish. Serve the skewers immediately for a soft bite, or chill them briefly if you prefer a firmer texture. Either way, these Cranberry Brie Skewers with Rosemary Honey Glaze are guaranteed to impress.
How to Serve Cranberry Brie Skewers with Rosemary Honey Glaze
Garnishes
To make your presentation even more inviting, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary around the platter. A sprinkle of finely chopped nuts or a few extra fresh cranberries scattered around will also elevate the visual appeal and entice guests to dive right in.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair wonderfully with light salads, crusty baguette slices, or a bowl of mixed olives for a full appetizer spread. Their sweet, savory, and tart profile complements Mediterranean-inspired side dishes perfectly, making your spread varied and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, arrange the skewers in a circular pattern on a larger plate with an edible flower or rosemary sprig in the center. Alternatively, serve them standing upright in a hollowed-out round loaf of bread for a rustic but elegant display that’s sure to be a conversation starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Their flavors meld nicely when chilled, but be sure to drizzle fresh rosemary honey glaze before serving again for the best taste.
Freezing
While you can freeze Brie cheese separately, the texture of these skewers does not hold up well to freezing due to the fresh cranberries and honey glaze. For best results, prepare your skewers fresh or store refrigerated and consume within 2 days.
Reheating
If you prefer the glaze warm, gently heat the leftover rosemary honey glaze on the stove and drizzle over cold skewers right before serving. Avoid reheating the skewers themselves to preserve the texture of the fresh cranberries and crisp nuts.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Fresh cranberries are best for this recipe because they provide a firm texture and bright flavor. Frozen cranberries tend to be softer and can make the skewers mushy, but if they’re your only option, thaw and drain them well before assembling.
What can I substitute for honey in the glaze?
If you’re avoiding honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can be excellent alternatives that still offer sweetness and blend wonderfully with rosemary’s earthiness.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! The rosemary honey glaze can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Warm it gently before drizzling over the skewers to bring back its silky texture and aroma.
Are there other nuts that work well in this recipe?
Yes, pistachios, almonds, or even hazelnuts can add a unique crunch and complement the Brie and cranberries. Just toast them lightly to enhance their flavor.
How far in advance can I assemble the skewers?
It’s best to assemble the skewers no more than a few hours before serving to maintain the freshness of the Brie and cranberries. Store them covered in the fridge to keep them fresh and appetizing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way Cranberry Brie Skewers with Rosemary Honey Glaze bring together simple ingredients to create an unforgettable bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, casual get-together, or just want a fancy snack for yourself, these skewers deliver on flavor and style without any fuss. Give them a try—you might just find your new go-to crowd-pleaser!
