These Cranberry Brie Tartlets are little bites of joy! Creamy brie cheese pairs perfectly with the tartness of cranberries, all tucked into a crispy pastry shell.
I love how they bring holiday cheer to any table, making me feel like a fancy chef—even if I barely did any cooking! They are super easy and always a hit at parties!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: A key player here, puff pastry creates that delightful flaky crust. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pastry for ease. Alternatively, phyllo dough can also work, but it will have a different texture.
Brie Cheese: This creamy cheese melts beautifully. If you can’t find brie, camembert is a great substitute. For a non-dairy option, consider using a cashew or almond cheese that melts well.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for a tart flavor, but frozen ones are just as good—just thaw before cooking. If you want to switch things up, you could use cherry or raspberry preserves instead for a fruitier taste.
Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch, but you can skip them if you prefer a nut-free dish. Sunflower or pumpkin seeds also make a great crunchy topping without the allergens.
Why is the Egg Wash Important?
The egg wash gives the pastry a shiny, golden finish, making your tartlets look more appealing. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Use a clean brush to apply the beaten egg only on the edges of the pastry squares. This prevents the filling from being affected.
- Be generous enough, but avoid dripping it onto the baking sheet, which can burn.
Remember to bake until puffed and golden for that perfect crispy texture. Enjoy your cooking!
Cranberry Brie Tartlets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tartlet Base:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
For the Filling:
- 8 oz brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (plus sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking, totaling around 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and elegant appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry. Cut it into 8 squares, each about 3 inches in size. Place these pastry squares on your prepared baking sheet.
3. Make the Pastry Edges Shine:
Using a fork, gently prick the centers of each pastry square, leaving the edges intact. This helps to control the puffing while they bake. Then, take your beaten egg and brush it lightly around the edges of the pastry to give them a nice golden color when baked.
4. Bake the Pastry:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake the pastry for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden and puffed. Once done, take them out and let them cool slightly.
5. Prepare the Cranberry Mixture:
While the pastry is baking, you can whip up the cranberry topping! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Cook it all together for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Stir occasionally!
6. Add Nuts and Herbs:
If you’re using them, stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts along with your chopped rosemary or thyme into the cranberry mixture. Take it off the heat and mix in the honey for a touch of sweetness.
7. Assemble the Tartlets:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Take a slice of brie and place it on each puff pastry square. Spoon a generous amount of the warm cranberry mixture over the top of the brie.
8. Garnish and Serve!
Finish off by garnishing each tartlet with a small sprig of rosemary or thyme for a lovely touch. These tartlets can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for any gathering!
Enjoy these delightful bites with a glass of white wine or your favorite drink. They’re sure to impress your guests!
Can I Use Store-Bought Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry is a great time-saver and yields excellent results. Just make sure to thaw it properly before using it to ensure it’s pliable.
Can I Make These Tartlets in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry mixture and pastry shells ahead of time. Assemble the tartlets just before baking to keep the pastry crisp. You can refrigerate the components separately for up to 24 hours.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through for the best texture.
Can I Substitute the Cranberries?
Definitely! If you prefer a sweeter flavor, try using cherry or raspberry preserves instead of fresh cranberries. You can also mix in other fruits like apples or pears for a twist!
