Cranberry Brie Bites are tasty little snacks that everyone loves! They start with flaky pastry filled with creamy brie cheese and sweet, tangy cranberry sauce.
These bites are perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. I like to pop a few in the oven and enjoy them with friends. They’re so good, you’ll want to eat the whole tray! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: Frozen puff pastry is key for that flaky texture. If you don’t have any, you can use phyllo dough instead. Just layer a few sheets together with butter or oil to create a similar effect.
Brie Cheese: The creamy brie brings everything together. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using camembert or even goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Cranberry Sauce: Store-bought cranberry sauce works great, but homemade adds a personal touch. You can easily make it with fresh or frozen cranberries, just cook them down with sugar and a splash of orange juice.
Nuts: I love adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunch. If you’re nut-free, you can skip them or replace with sunflower seeds for a different texture.
How Do I Make Sure My Pastry Comes Out Flaky and Golden?
Getting flaky, golden pastry is all about proper handling and baking. Here’s how to nail it:
- Thaw the puff pastry in the fridge, and don’t let it sit long at room temperature. It needs to stay cold!
- Roll it out gently on a floured surface to avoid stretching it too thin.
- Brush the edges with egg wash—this encourages browning and gives a beautiful shine.
- Keep an eye on the baking process! Every oven is different; start checking at 12 minutes.
Let them cool a bit before serving, and enjoy those perfect pastries!
Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small chunks
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tsp water (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 12-15 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a delicious snack ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Muffin Tin:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a mini muffin tin to help the bites release easily after baking.
2. Preparing the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet just to smooth it out a bit. Then, cut the pastry into 12 equal squares. This will be the base for your bites!
3. Shaping the Bites:
Take each square of pastry and gently press it into the mini muffin tin cups, shaping it into a small cup that will hold the brie and cranberry.
4. Adding the Brie:
Place a chunk of brie cheese into the bottom of each puff pastry cup. The brie will melt beautifully while baking!
5. Spoon in the Cranberry Sauce:
Now, take about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce and spoon it over the brie in each cup. This adds a delicious sweet and tart flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheese.
6. Optional Nut Topping:
If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cranberry sauce.
7. Applying the Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 teaspoon of water to create an egg wash. Then, brush this mix lightly over the edges of the puff pastry to achieve that beautiful golden color when baked.
8. Baking Time:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they’re ready when the pastry is puffed and golden and the cheese is all melty.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Take the muffin tin out of the oven and let the bites cool for a few minutes. Optional: garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a lovely presentation and aroma.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delightful cranberry brie bites warm to your guests (or yourself!), and watch them disappear!
This recipe yields approximately 12 bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a tasty, easy-to-make savory snack. Enjoy!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry sauce is a convenient and tasty option. Just make sure to choose one that you enjoy, as it will be the main flavor in the bites. You can also jazz it up by adding a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest if desired!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover cranberry brie bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the bites ahead of time and keep them unbaked in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Just make sure to cover them with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
What Can I Substitute for Brie Cheese?
If you don’t have brie, camembert is an excellent substitute. For a lighter option, try using goat cheese or cream cheese mixed with herbs for added flavor!
