If you’re searching for a show-stopping recipe that feels fancy but is secretly effortless, this Easy Cranberry Brie & Pear Tart is your answer. With flaky puff pastry, creamy brie, juicy pears, and bright cranberry sauce, this tart walks the perfect line between sweet and savory. It’s elegant enough for holiday entertaining, yet simple enough for a cozy weekend treat.

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas brunch, or a fall dinner party, this tart delivers maximum visual appeal with minimal stress. The contrast of textures—crispy pastry, melty cheese, soft fruit—makes every bite unforgettable.

Why This Cranberry Brie & Pear Tart Works

This recipe succeeds because it balances flavor and texture beautifully:

Brie provides creamy richness
Pears bring floral sweetness
Cranberries add bright acidity
Puff pastry gives flaky structure

Together, they create a bakery-style tart you can make at home in under an hour.

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 wheel brie cheese (8 oz), sliced
1–2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
½ cup whole cranberry sauce
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll puff pastry slightly and place on the sheet. Score a 1-inch border around the edge (don’t cut through).
Brush edges with beaten egg.
Spread cranberry sauce evenly inside the border.
Layer sliced brie over the cranberry base.
Arrange pear slices in overlapping rows.
Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with thyme and salt.
Bake 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed.
Cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Best Tart

• Use ripe but firm pears
• Chill pastry before baking for max flake
• Don’t overload with cheese—it melts and spreads
• Let tart rest 10 minutes before slicing

Variations

• Add walnuts or pecans
• Swap pears for apples
• Use fig jam instead of cranberry
• Add prosciutto for savory flair

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm as an appetizer
• Pair with arugula salad
• Offer with sparkling cider or prosecco
• Perfect for brunch boards

Cultural & Seasonal Notes

Brie originates from France, pears from Europe, and cranberries from North America—making this tart a beautiful global fusion and perfect symbol of autumn harvest.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Store leftovers covered in fridge up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.