Cranberry Brie Bites are little treats that pack a big punch of flavor! These tasty bites combine creamy brie cheese with sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, all tucked into flaky pastry.
They’re perfect as a snack or party appetizer. I always make sure to keep some on hand—they disappear fast! Trust me, guests will be asking for the recipe! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky dough is key for texture. If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use phyllo dough—or even biscuit dough in a pinch. Just adjust baking times as needed!
Brie Cheese: Brie gives a creamy richness. If you’re not a fan, camembert or even goat cheese can work well here too. Just note that goat cheese has a stronger flavor!
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade cranberry sauce is great, but store-bought is perfectly fine too. If you can’t find cranberry sauce, try using a fruit preserve like raspberry or even cherry for a twist.
Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch. If you have nut allergies, try sunflower seeds or simply omit them. Don’t hesitate to customize!
How Do I Make Sure the Puff Pastry Is Perfectly Baked?
The puff pastry is essential for those delicious bites! Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed so it’s easy to roll out and shape.
- When cutting the squares, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even baking.
- Preheating the oven is crucial. The high temperature helps it puff up nicely and get that golden crust.
- Keep an eye on them while baking. Every oven is different! Look for a puffed, golden-brown appearance to know they’re ready.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Honey (for drizzling, optional)
Time Needed:
This delightful treat will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes before you can enjoy these sweet bites right out of the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, grease a mini muffin tin lightly with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking. This will help your bites pop out effortlessly after baking!
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
Next, take the thawed puff pastry and roll it out gently on a floured surface. Cut it into 2×2 inch squares—these will fit perfectly into the muffin cups. Make sure you have enough squares for each cup!
3. Form the Pastry Cups:
Once cut, take each square and press it gently into the greased muffin tin cups. This will create little pastry cups that will hold the delicious Brie and cranberry mixture.
4. Add the Brie:
Now it’s time to place a slice of Brie cheese into each pastry cup. Make sure it’s a nice, good slice, as the creamy goodness will melt beautifully while baking!
5. Top with Cranberry Sauce:
Next, add about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of the Brie in each cup. This sweet and tart mixture is what makes these bites so tasty!
6. Add Nuts (Optional):
If you’re using nuts, sprinkle a bit of chopped walnuts or pecans over the cranberry sauce for an extra crunch. It adds a lovely texture!
7. Bake Your Bites:
Put the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they’re done when the pastry is puffed, golden brown, and the cheese is melty and bubbly.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, carefully remove the muffin tin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. then garnish each bite with a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme for a pop of flavor and a pretty touch!
9. Drizzle with Honey (Optional):
If you’re feeling a little more indulgent, drizzle a bit of honey over the warm bites before serving. It pairs beautifully with the cheese and cranberry!
10. Serve and Enjoy!
These Cranberry Brie Bites are best enjoyed warm. Serve them at your next gathering, holiday party, or simply as a savory snack at home. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Brie is traditional, you can substitute it with camembert for a similar flavor or goat cheese for a tangier twist. Just make sure any cheese you choose melts well!
How to Store Leftover Cranberry Brie Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the pastry gets crispy again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bites ahead by assembling them and then refrigerating until you’re ready to bake—just make sure to bake them fresh before serving for the best texture!
What Can I Use Instead of Puff Pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry, phyllo dough works, too! You can also use biscuit dough as an alternative, but baking times may vary slightly. Adjust as needed for a golden finish!
