Cranberry Brie Bites are a tasty treat that’s super easy to make! With creamy brie cheese and sweet cranberry sauce wrapped in flaky pastry, they’re a crowd favorite!
These little bites are perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. I love serving them warm with a drizzle of honey on top, making them even more delightful. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show! You can use store-bought frozen puff pastry for convenience. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try phyllo dough, although it will be a bit less flaky.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds a creamy texture with a mild flavor. If brie isn’t available, Camembert or even goat cheese can be great alternatives for a different taste.
Cranberry Sauce: I love using homemade cranberry sauce for added flavor, but canned is just fine too. If you want less sweetness, opt for a tart cranberry sauce or a cranberry chutney.
Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies, feel free to skip them or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme elevates the flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs can work too. Just use less, as they’re more potent!
How Do You Work with Puff Pastry?
Puff pastry can be tricky if you’ve never used it before. Here’s how to make sure it bakes up perfectly:
- Keep it cold: Puff pastry works best when it’s cold, so don’t let it sit out too long. Thaw in the fridge before using.
- Roll it out evenly: On a floured surface, roll it out gently, making sure all pieces are even for uniform cooking.
- Don’t skip the chilling step: After you form your pastry shells in the muffin tin, chill them in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps them keep their shape!
How to Make Cranberry Brie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or chunky)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Honey for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of baking time. Overall, you should be ready to enjoy your Cranberry Brie Bites in about 30 to 35 minutes, including baking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s always good to have the oven ready to go while you prepare the bites!
2. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Line a mini muffin tin with parchment paper or give it a light coating of grease. This will prevent the bites from sticking and make cleanup easier later.
3. Cut the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, unfold your thawed puff pastry sheet. Grab a sharp knife or pizza cutter and cut it into 12 equal squares. Make sure they’re big enough to fit in the muffin cups.
4. Form the Pastry Shells:
Gently press each puff pastry square into the muffin tin cups, shaping them into little shells. This is where the delicious fillings will sit!
5. Add the Brie:
Take a small piece of brie cheese and place it at the bottom of each pastry shell. Don’t be shy; the more cheesy goodness, the better!
6. Top with Cranberry Sauce:
Carefully spoon about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of the brie in each shell. This sweet and tangy layer is what makes these bites extra special!
7. (Optional) Sprinkle with Nuts:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cranberry sauce for added flavor and crunch. This step is optional, but it gives a nice texture!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up, and the cheese is deliciously melted.
9. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, carefully take the muffin tin out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, use a fork or small spatula to remove the bites from the tin.
10. Garnish and Serve:
For an extra touch, garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme and drizzle a little honey over the top if desired. Serve them warm and watch everyone enjoy these delightful bites!
These Cranberry Brie Bites are a perfect mix of flaky, creamy, and tangy flavors—great for any gathering or holiday party!
Can I Use Other Cheeses Instead of Brie?
Absolutely! If you don’t have brie, you can substitute with camembert, goat cheese, or even a mild cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Just remember that each cheese will bring its unique taste!
Can I Make Cranberry Brie Bites in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the bites up to the baking step a few hours ahead of time. Just cover them and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping them in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Use Different Sauces?
Definitely! While cranberry sauce is traditional, feel free to experiment. A raspberry sauce, fig jam, or even a savory chutney could make for unique and tasty variations!
