Brie Cheese Rosemary Wreath

I still remember the first time I brought this to a holiday gathering, feeling a bit nervous about how simple it was. But watching everyone gather around the platter, breaking off pieces of warm, creamy Brie with crackers, I realized that sometimes the most unfussy dishes make the biggest impression. There's something about fresh rosemary and good cheese that just feels like celebration.

The first time I made this, I was hosting unexpected company and needed something that looked intentional. I grabbed what was in my fridge, a wheel of Brie and some rosemary from the windowsill, and arranged them on a platter. My guests thought I'd planned it for days. That's when I learned that fresh herbs can turn the simplest ingredients into something that feels special.

Ingredients

• Brie cheese wheel (8 oz): Look for one that gives just slightly when you press the top, that means it's ripe and will be gloriously creamy. I always let mine sit out before serving, cold Brie just doesn't have the same magic.
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (6 to 8): The woodsy, pine scent of rosemary makes everything feel more festive. I keep a small plant on my kitchen counter just for moments like this.
• Fresh cranberries (1 tablespoon, optional): These little bursts of red add a pop of color and a tiny bit of tartness that cuts through the richness.
• Pomegranate seeds (1 tablespoon, optional): Jewel like and sweet, they make the platter look like something from a magazine.
• Toasted pecans or walnuts (1 tablespoon, optional, chopped): A bit of crunch and nuttiness that makes each bite more interesting. I toast mine until fragrant, it makes all the difference.
• Crackers or sliced baguette: Your vehicle for getting cheese to mouth. I prefer a sturdy cracker that won't crumble under the weight of generous spreading.
• Honey or fig jam (optional): A drizzle of honey or dollop of jam turns this from lovely to absolutely irresistible.

Instructions

Let the Brie Come Alive:

Take your Brie out of the fridge and set it on your serving platter. Let it sit there for 30 to 45 minutes, just hanging out at room temperature. You'll notice it soften and relax. Cold Brie is fine, but room temperature Brie is the stuff of dreams, all oozy and spreadable.

Create Your Rosemary Wreath:

This is the fun part. Take your rosemary sprigs and tuck them around the edge of the Brie wheel, forming a little wreath. Don't overthink it, a slightly imperfect circle looks more natural and inviting. The smell alone will make you happy.

Add the Festive Touches:

Now sprinkle your cranberries, pomegranate seeds, and chopped nuts over and around the rosemary. Let some tumble onto the platter itself. This is where it transforms from simple cheese to something that looks like you really care, because you do.

Bring It to the Table:

Set out your crackers or baguette slices. If you're feeling fancy, put a little dish of honey or fig jam nearby. Then step back and let people discover it. The first person to dig in always breaks the ice for everyone else.

Save

There was a Christmas Eve when I made this and set it out early, then got distracted with other cooking. By the time I looked over, the Brie had become perfectly soft and people had gathered around it like it was a campfire. Someone said it tasted like the holidays smelled, and I've never forgotten that. Food that brings people together without trying too hard, that's the kind I keep making.

Making It Warm and Melty

If you want to take this up a notch, try warming the Brie before you garnish it. Put the wheel on a parchment lined baking sheet and slide it into a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes. You're looking for the cheese to puff slightly and feel soft when you gently press the top. Pull it out, transfer to your platter, then add your rosemary and garnishes. The warmth makes the cheese almost spoonable, and people will lose their minds a little.

When You're Missing Something

No rosemary? I've used thyme and sage with beautiful results. Thyme gives a more delicate, floral note, and sage brings an earthy, almost savory depth. No cranberries or pomegranate? Try dried cherries or even a few fresh grapes cut in half. The point is color and a little sweetness, so use what you have. And if nuts aren't your thing or someone has allergies, just leave them out entirely. This is forgiving like that.

Pairing and Serving Ideas

This pairs beautifully with a crisp, bubbly sparkling wine or a light white like Sauvignon Blanc. I've also served it alongside a cheese board with sharper cheeses, and the mild creaminess of the Brie becomes a nice balance. If you're putting together a spread, consider adding some sliced apples, grapes, and a little bowl of grainy mustard.

Last Minute Thoughts

A few things I wish I'd known the first time I made this.

• You can prep the whole platter an hour ahead, just cover it loosely and keep it at room temperature until serving
• If you're traveling with this, assemble it when you arrive rather than in your kitchen, the rosemary can shift and the garnishes may tumble off in transit
• Leftover Brie, if there is any, makes an incredible grilled cheese the next day

Save

This is the kind of recipe that makes you look like a gracious host without breaking a sweat. Serve it with confidence and enjoy watching it disappear.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should Brie be rested before serving?

Leave the Brie at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes to soften and enhance its creamy texture before serving.

→ Can the rosemary wreath be substituted?

Yes, herbs like thyme or sage can be used instead of rosemary for a different aromatic note.

→ Is it possible to warm the Brie before serving?

For a warm variation, bake the Brie at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes before garnishing to soften it further.

→ What toppings complement the Brie and rosemary?

Cranberries, pomegranate seeds, and toasted nuts add color, texture, and flavor contrasts to the soft cheese.

→ What are recommended accompaniments for serving?

Serve with crackers or sliced baguette, and optional sides like honey or fig jam enhance the flavor profile.

→ Are there any allergen considerations?

This dish contains milk from Brie cheese and tree nuts if nuts are included; always verify ingredient labels.