When the holidays roll around, I love serving appetizers that are both impressive and easy to share. This bacon brie crescent wreath is one of my go-to recipes—the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and buttery wrapped in flaky crescent dough. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any party or family gathering.
You’ll find this bacon brie crescent wreath incredibly simple to make, yet it looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to entertaining, this recipe will quickly become a favorite for festive occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines rich brie cheese and smoky bacon in a flaky crescent crust
- Easy to assemble with store-bought crescent dough
- Perfect for holiday parties, game days, or casual get-togethers
- Impressive presentation with minimal effort
- Can be served warm or at room temperature
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your savory bacon brie crescent wreath:
- 1 package (8 oz) crescent roll dough
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 8 oz brie cheese, cut into small wedges
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional garnish: extra thyme sprigs and cracked pepper
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories: Approx. 280 per serving
How to Make Savory Bacon & Brie Crescent Wreath: A Delicious Holiday Treat!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Unroll the crescent dough onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a roughly 12-inch circle by pressing seams together to seal. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge.
- Arrange the brie wedges and chopped bacon evenly in a ring about 3 inches from the center, covering the circle but leaving the middle clear. Sprinkle the chopped fresh thyme and black pepper over the top.
- Starting from the outer edge, gently fold the dough triangles toward the center, overlapping slightly to create a braided wreath look. Leave the center open.
- Brush the entire wreath with the beaten egg wash for a shiny, golden crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the dough is puffed and golden and the brie is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra thyme sprigs and cracked black pepper before serving warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use thick-cut bacon for better texture and flavor; drain well to avoid greasy dough.
- Don’t skip the egg wash—it gives the crescent wreath a beautiful golden finish.
- Allow the wreath to cool slightly before slicing so the melted brie doesn’t spill out too much.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some chopped nuts like toasted pecans or walnuts inside the wreath before baking.
- If you prefer, substitute fresh rosemary or sage for the thyme to change the herb profile.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the bacon brie crescent wreath fresh, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again.
You can also freeze the unbaked wreath wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of brie?
Yes, you can substitute camembert or a mild goat cheese for brie, but these may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Brie is ideal because it melts smoothly and has a creamy texture that pairs well with bacon.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and add more herbs or roasted vegetables like caramelized onions or mushrooms. You could also use a smoky paprika or smoked salt to replicate some of the bacon flavor.
What kind of crescent dough works best?
Store-bought refrigerated crescent roll dough works best for convenience and texture. Make sure to pick a brand without added fillings or sweet flavors to keep the savory profile.
Can I prepare this wreath in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the wreath and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before baking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
