Mediterranean Galette with Brie, Cranberries and Toasted Walnuts with a Hot Honey Drizzle
This Mediterranean Galette with Brie, Cranberries, and Toasted Walnuts with Hot Honey Drizzle is a stunning, rustic tart that blends sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. Flaky pastry encases creamy Brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, then gets a finishing drizzle of warm honey infused with a hint of spice. The result is a galette that’s visually impressive, yet approachable to make at home. Perfect as an appetizer, brunch feature, or elegant dessert-style starter, it showcases the Mediterranean approach: fresh, high-quality ingredients combined for maximum flavor. Each bite offers contrast—soft cheese, crisp pastry, chewy fruit, and crunchy nuts—enhanced by the aromatic honey drizzle.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Serves: 6 to 8
Ingredients
For the Pastry
1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
¼ cup ice water, plus more if needed
For the Filling
8 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and diced
½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries
½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, optional
For the Hot Honey Drizzle
¼ cup honey
½ teaspoon red chili flakes, adjust to taste
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
For Finishing
1 egg, beaten, for egg wash
Extra thyme or microgreens for garnish
Instructions
Make the Pastry: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
Prepare the Filling: While the dough chills, toss Brie, cranberries, toasted walnuts, honey, and thyme (if using) in a small bowl.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a roughly 12-inch circle. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
Assemble the Galette: Spoon the Brie-cranberry-walnut mixture into the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Fold the edges over the filling, pleating as needed to create a rustic edge.
Egg Wash: Brush the folded pastry edges with beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.
Bake: Bake for 28 to 30 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Prepare Hot Honey: While the galette bakes, gently warm honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in red chili flakes and lemon juice. Remove from heat once combined.
Finish Galette: Remove the galette from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle with the hot honey over the top.
Serve: Garnish with extra thyme or microgreens and slice into wedges. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Tips
Keep butter and water very cold to achieve a flaky pastry.
Chill the dough to prevent shrinking while baking.
Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter for even edges.
Toast walnuts to enhance their nutty flavor.
Remove Brie rind for a smoother, creamier filling.
Fold the pastry edges gently without pressing too hard to maintain height.
Don’t overfill; leave a 2-inch border for proper folding.
Drizzle hot honey just before serving to preserve its shine and aroma.
Add a pinch of salt on top of the cheese before baking for balance.
Serve within an hour of baking for the best contrast of textures.
Variations
Swap cranberries for dried cherries or figs.
Use goat cheese or Camembert instead of Brie.
Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the filling for brightness.
Replace walnuts with pistachios for Mediterranean flair.
Incorporate a handful of fresh spinach under the cheese for extra greens.
Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the hot honey for warmth.
Make mini galettes for individual servings.
Drizzle with balsamic reduction instead of honey for tang.
Add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for a more herbal profile.
Use puff pastry for a lighter, flakier crust.
Q&A
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, dough can be made and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, thaw and drain them slightly to reduce excess moisture.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use plant-based cheese and butter alternatives.
How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
Don’t overfill and bake on parchment or a preheated baking sheet.
Can I reheat leftovers?
Yes, warm gently in the oven to crisp pastry again.
Can I use pre-made puff pastry?
Yes, it works well and saves time.
Can I add honey before baking?
It’s best added after baking to maintain its flavor and shine.
Is this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make it gluten-free.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, adjust the chili flakes in the honey drizzle.
What pairs well with this galette?
Light salads, roasted vegetables, or a crisp white wine complement it beautifully.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 370
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 12g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Galette with Brie, Cranberries, and Toasted Walnuts with Hot Honey Drizzle is a perfect combination of rustic charm and elegant flavor. The creamy cheese, tart fruit, crunchy nuts, and sweet-spicy honey create a memorable bite every time. Easy to assemble yet impressive on the table, it’s ideal for entertaining, brunch, or a cozy family meal. With simple ingredients and a balance of textures and flavors, this galette brings the heart of Mediterranean cooking to your kitchen in a visually stunning, delicious dish.