Cranberry Brie Bites are tasty little treats that combine creamy brie cheese with sweet cranberry sauce wrapped in flaky pastry. Perfect for parties or a cozy snack!
They’re so easy to pop in your mouth, you might forget how many you’ve eaten. 😂 I love serving them warm, and they always impress my guests with their delicious flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry provides the perfect outer layer. If you’re short on time, you can use phyllo dough, but it won’t be quite as tender. Store-bought pastry is super convenient and always works well for me!
Brie Cheese: Brie is the star here, but you can use Camembert or goat cheese if you prefer. Just remember, softer cheeses will melt beautifully, adding to the creamy texture.
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine. If you want a twist, try using raspberry or cherry preserves instead! They pair well too!
Herbs: I love the fresh touch that rosemary or thyme adds, but you can skip them if you’re not a fan. Dried herbs will also work—just use a little less.
Nuts: Crushed walnuts or pecans add nice crunch, but feel free to omit them if there are allergies or preferences. I sometimes use sunflower seeds instead for a different texture.
How Do I Ensure My Puff Pastry Turns Out Perfectly Golden?
The key to getting that beautiful golden color on puff pastry is the egg wash. It gives a nice shine and color. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the pastry is thawed and kept cold until you’re ready to bake.
- Brush the edges lightly but avoid overdoing it. A thin layer is best!
- Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for even heat distribution.
- Rotate the tray halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
Remember, patience is important! Don’t rush the baking time—golden, puffed pastry is worth the wait! 🥐
How to Make Cranberry Brie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 6 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely crushed walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15-18 minutes of cooking time. So, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your bites will bake perfectly. While that’s warming up, you can prepare your baking sheet or mini muffin tin.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry. Cut it into approximately 12 small squares, each about 2×2 inches. This will give you the perfect base for your delicious bites!
3. Arrange the Pastry:
Gently place each puff pastry square on the lined baking sheet or in the mini muffin tin. If you’re using the muffin tin, it really helps hold the shape of the dough while it bakes.
4. Add the Brie:
Take a cube of brie cheese and gently press it into the center of each puff pastry square. This will leak into your filling and add an amazing creaminess!
5. Spoon on the Cranberry Sauce:
Add about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce over the brie in each square. This sweet-tart sauce pairs perfectly with the rich brie.
6. Sprinkle with Herbs and Nuts:
If you want to elevate your bites, sprinkle a small pinch of chopped fresh rosemary or thyme on top. If you’re feeling nutty, add some crushed walnuts or pecans for added crunch!
7. Brush with Egg Wash:
Lightly brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg. This will help them turn golden and shiny when baked. Just a gentle coat will do!
8. Bake:
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up beautifully. Keep an eye on them as ovens can vary!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. This makes them easier to handle and brings out the flavors just a bit more.
10. Enjoy!
Serve your warm Cranberry Brie Bites to friends and family. Watch how quickly they disappear! These bites are perfect for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to cozy nights at home.
These Cranberry Brie Bites are a superb combination of flaky pastry, creamy brie, and sweet cranberry sauce, making them a delightful addition to your snack repertoire!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using. This will ensure it’s pliable and easy to work with!
Can I Make These Cranberry Brie Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the bites up to the baking stage, then cover and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through and the pastry is fresh and crisp again.
Can I Use Other Cheeses?
Yes, feel free to experiment! Camembert or even a soft goat cheese can be delightful alternatives. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well for that perfect gooey filling!