Mini Brie Christmas Trees

You will need:

• Round brie – I like using the mini version of brie. You get bite-size appetizers that can be enjoyed in one bite and are not too much of a strong flavor.
• Honey – It is a must! It elevates these simple Christmas cheese appetizers to a whole new level!
• Nuts – I like pistachios, but you can use another kind – Walnuts or pecans are great options. Tip: Turn your leftover pistachios into a delicious goat cheese log!
• Dried cranberries and apricots
• Fresh parsley – Cilantro will also work if you like this herb.

Kitchen gadgets and tools:

• Cutting board and Chef’s knife – or any large knife with a flat blade.
• Serving board/tray/plate/platter.
• Toothpicks – For mini brie or cocktail sticks/wooden skewers for regular brie.
• Large airtight container.

Julia’s tips:

• I used mini brie. This weighed 4.4 ounces (125 grams) and I got 16 wedges out of it. They were tiny but so cute. Toothpicks worked best here as I feel that pretzel sticks (rods) will turn soggy and can break if these Christmas tree brie bites will sit longer. They do turn soggy and while this might not be an issue with other appetizers (like my pumpkin cheese balls), when you have to grab the cheese by the pretzel, they can break. Also, the part where you will be inserting the pretzel sticks is the crust. It is hard and a toothpick goes easily in without an effort.
• When using the regular size brie (about 8 ounces/240 grams), it is better to use cocktail sticks or wooden skewers instead of toothpicks.
• For this quick appetizer recipe, you will need honey. Hot honey is a great alternative so why not use it, if you have it on hand. Or, drizzle half of them with regular honey and the other half with hot honey for the extra spicy kick.
• I also tested these by dipping the wedge in honey first but did not like the results. It was messy and the honey did not stay on the cheese as much as I wished for. The topping had no problem sticking to the brie wedge without it.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, you can. Keep in mind that cheese will firm up and slightly dry out in the fridge, even when stored in an airtight container.

How long in advance can I make brie Christmas tree appetizers?

You can make these the night before serving.

Can I use Camembert?

Camembert will work the same way so yes; you could use it. However, keep in mind that it is a stronger cheese and might not be to everyone’s liking.

More easy Christmas appetizers:

• Christmas Tree Sandwiches – All you need are simple ingredients and a tree cookie cutter.
• Christmas Wreath Cheese Board – Fun and easy way to feed a crowd.
• Candy Cane Caprese Board – Mozzarella, fresh basil and tomatoes. Delicious yet festive looking appetizer perfect for any gathering!
• Parmesan Asparagus Pastry Twists – Perfect for gatherings or easy snacking.
• Beef Wellington Bites – One of the most-loved recipes by our readers!