Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites always feel like a small celebration to me because they bring together buttery pastry creamy brie and sweet tart cranberry sauce in the most effortless way. I love how they look impressive even though they take only minutes to prepare and I find myself making them whenever I want an appetizer that stands out without adding stress. Their warm flaky texture paired with melty cheese makes every bite feel cozy and festive.

When I work with puff pastry I’m always amazed by how it transforms in the oven because it puffs beautifully and creates delicate layers that hold the filling so well. I enjoy spooning the cranberry sauce right into the center since it adds brightness that cuts through the richness of the brie. As they bake I can smell the buttery pastry and it instantly makes the kitchen feel inviting.

I also love how adaptable these bites are because I can adjust the flavor with a sprinkle of nuts or fresh herbs. They’re easy enough for casual nights yet elegant enough for holiday dinners which makes them one of my favorite appetizers to prepare throughout the season.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe and you can always add small twists to suit your taste.

• Puff pastry – Creates a golden buttery base that holds everything beautifully.
• Brie cheese – Melts into a creamy rich center.
• Cranberry sauce – Adds sweetness and tang for perfect balance.
• Pecans – Bring crunch and nutty flavor.
• Fresh rosemary – Gives a fragrant finishing touch.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mini muffin tin – Helps the puff pastry form little cups for the filling.
• Sharp knife – Lets me cut the pastry into even squares.
• Cutting board – Provides a sturdy surface for pastry prep.
• Small spoon – Makes it easy to scoop in the cranberry sauce.
• Pastry brush (optional) – Helps me add an egg wash for extra golden color.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

I start by thawing the puff pastry until it’s soft enough to unfold then I lightly flour my surface and gently roll it to smooth the creases.

Step 2: Cut into Squares

Using a sharp knife I cut the pastry into small even squares that will fit perfectly into the mini muffin tin.

Step 3: Fill the Tin

I press each square into a muffin cup making sure the corners stick up to create nice little pastry pockets.

Step 4: Add Cranberry Sauce

With a small spoon I add a bit of cranberry sauce inside each pastry cup.

Step 5: Add the Brie

I place a small cube of brie right on top of the cranberry sauce so it melts down as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake

I bake the bites at 375°F for about 12 to 15 minutes until the pastry turns golden and the cheese melts beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish

Once they’re warm out of the oven I top them with chopped pecans and a little rosemary for color and flavor.

Tips

I like to keep the puff pastry cold because it bakes up flakier that way. If I want extra shine I brush the edges with a light egg wash before baking. Sometimes I swap the cranberry sauce for fig jam when I want a sweeter twist and it pairs wonderfully with the brie. Chilling the bites briefly before baking also helps them hold their shape better.

Ways to Serve

I enjoy serving Cranberry Brie Bites on a large platter alongside fresh herbs for a pretty presentation. They pair beautifully with sparkling drinks soups and hearty main dishes making them perfect for holiday parties or winter gatherings. When I’m hosting I also include them on charcuterie boards because their warm creamy texture balances cured meats and crunchy crackers effortlessly.

Storage Instructions

I store leftover bites in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two days. When I’m ready to reheat them I place them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the pastry again since the microwave can make it soft. If the cheese seems firm after refrigeration the gentle heat brings it right back to its melty texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cranberry Brie Bites ahead of time?

Yes I can assemble them and refrigerate them then bake them just before serving for the freshest texture.

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Absolutely homemade sauce adds even more flavor and works perfectly in these bites.

How do I keep the puff pastry from getting soggy?

I try not to overfill the cranberry sauce and I bake the bites on the lower rack to crisp the bottoms.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these Cranberry Brie Bites a try because they’re festive simple and always crowd-pleasing. Let me know how yours turn out and save this recipe for your next holiday or cozy gathering.

Happy Cooking!

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