Name: Cranberry Brie Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade); 4 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes; 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional); 1 tbsp honey (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

These cranberry brie bites combine creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and buttery puff pastry for a delightful appetizer. They’re easy to make and ideal for holiday parties or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick: Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal prep.

Versatile: Perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or even as a snack.

Festive Flavors: The combination of sweet cranberry sauce and creamy brie feels indulgent and celebratory.

Customizable: Add rosemary, honey, or spices to make them uniquely yours.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Easy to prepare ahead of time and reheat when needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)

4 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)

1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into small squares (about 2×2 inches each). This should yield 12-16 squares, depending on the size.

Assemble the Bites
Place each puff pastry square into the cups of a mini muffin tin, pressing gently to form little cups. Add a spoonful of cranberry sauce to the center of each cup, followed by a cube of brie cheese on top.

Bake the Bites
Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the brie has melted.

Finish and Serve
Allow the bites to cool slightly. For extra flavor, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with fresh rosemary. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16 bites

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Savory Twist: Add a small slice of prosciutto or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for texture.

Herbal Notes: Swap rosemary with thyme or add a pinch of dried herbs for extra aroma.

Zesty Flavor: Mix a bit of orange zest into the cranberry sauce.

Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or camembert for a different flavor profile.

Spicy Option: Add a dash of chili flakes to the cranberry sauce for a kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm the bites in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid using the microwave to keep the puff pastry crisp.

Related Recipes:

Cranberry Bars

FAQs

How far in advance can I prepare these?

I like to prepare them up to a day in advance by assembling the bites and refrigerating them uncooked. Bake them fresh just before serving for the best results.

Can I freeze cranberry brie bites?

Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, assemble the bites, freeze them on a tray until firm, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?

Yes, phyllo dough works well but will give you a lighter, crispier texture. Be sure to layer the phyllo sheets with butter before forming the cups.

What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin?

You can use a regular baking sheet and fold the edges of the puff pastry squares to create little cups. They might spread a bit more, but they’ll still be delicious.

Can I make these vegetarian-friendly?

These bites are already vegetarian-friendly as written. Just ensure the brie and puff pastry are suitable for your dietary preferences.

Conclusion

Cranberry brie bites are a simple yet elegant appetizer that always impresses. With their perfect balance of flavors and easy preparation, they’re a go-to for any festive occasion. Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your own twist, these bites will be a hit at your next gathering.

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