If you’re searching for that one unforgettable appetizer that manages to be festive, creamy, and impossibly easy, look no further than Cranberry Brie Bites. This recipe is pure finger food magic: crisp, buttery puff pastry, gooey pools of melted Brie, tart cranberry sauce, crunchy pecans, and a whisper of rosemary. Whether you’re hosting a cozy holiday party or simply want to elevate a weeknight snack, these bites hit every note—sweet, savory, flaky, and bursting with bold flavor. It’s impossible to eat just one!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cranberry Brie Bites is in their simplicity: each ingredient plays a starring role, creating a showstopping result with very little effort. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love using them.
- Puff Pastry: Buttery, flaky, and golden—it’s the crisp base that holds these bites together, and the shortcut that makes this recipe so quick.
- Brie Cheese: This creamy, mild cheese melts into dreamy puddles for the ultimate gooey texture and rich, indulgent flavor.
- Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce: The tartness balances the richness of the Brie and adds a bright pop of color and sweetness.
- Chopped Pecans: For irresistible crunch and a lovely nutty note—feel free to skip for a nut-free batch!
- Fresh Rosemary: Just a sprinkle wakes up the entire appetizer, giving a fragrant, woodsy accent.
- Honey (optional): Drizzling a bit on top gives an extra hint of sweetness and shine, making your bites look and taste extra-special.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Bites
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give a mini muffin tin a light coating of oil or nonstick spray. This ensures your Cranberry Brie Bites pop out effortlessly, with beautiful, crisp edges every time.
Step 2: Cut and Shape the Puff Pastry
Roll out your thawed sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice it into 24 equal squares. Drop a square into each well of the mini muffin tin, pressing gently so the pastry hugs the base and sides. This little cup is ready for all the goodness to come.
Step 3: Add the Brie
Place one cube of Brie into every pastry cup. As these bake, the Brie will melt into a creamy center that contrasts perfectly with the flaky shell and tangy topping. Don’t stress if the edges peek out—gooey cheese is always a win!
Step 4: Spoon on the Cranberry Sauce and Toppings
Top each Brie cube with a generous teaspoon of whole berry cranberry sauce. Sprinkle with chopped pecans for fabulous crunch and a festive look. Finally, add a pinch of chopped fresh rosemary to each bite, letting its aroma infuse the filling as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cheese is gently bubbling. Let your Cranberry Brie Bites cool for a few minutes in the pan before removing—this helps the filling set and makes for easier handling.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
If you’d like, finish each bite with a light drizzle of honey just before serving. This optional step turns a delicious appetizer into a gourmet delight, adding gorgeous shine and just the right touch of sweetness.
How to Serve Cranberry Brie Bites
Garnishes
Fresh rosemary sprigs, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a tiny extra spoonful of cranberry sauce can make each bite look as beautiful as it tastes. That honey drizzle isn’t just for flavor—it gives your tray an inviting, glossy finish sure to turn heads.
Side Dishes
These bites steal the show on any appetizer spread, but they’ll also fit seamlessly alongside a fruit platter, crunchy raw veggie sticks, or even savory dips. Pair with spiced nuts, charcuterie, or a light sparkling cocktail to round out a holiday menu.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your Cranberry Brie Bites in a wreath shape on a large platter and tuck in sprigs of rosemary and clusters of fresh cranberries. Or scatter microgreens underneath for a festive, restaurant-worthy vibe. Little cupcake liners or parchment wrappers can add a fun, grab-and-go feel for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, store cooled Cranberry Brie Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to three days, staying fresh and flavorful—though they rarely last that long!
Freezing
Want to plan ahead? Bake and cool the bites completely, then freeze them on a tray before transferring to a zip-top bag. Reheat directly from frozen for an easy appetizer solution at a moment’s notice, perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute cravings.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat Cranberry Brie Bites in a 350°F oven for about 8–10 minutes. This brings back the crisp puff pastry and gooey cheese without drying out the filling. Avoid microwaving, which can turn the pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Brie?
Absolutely! Camembert is a great substitute, or try a wheel of soft goat cheese for a tangier bite. Just be sure the cheese you use melts well and has a creamy texture.
Can I make Cranberry Brie Bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bites (without baking) and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours. Bake them off just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
What’s the best way to cut the puff pastry?
A sharp knife or pizza cutter works wonders for clean, even squares—don’t forget to lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. If the pastry gets too soft, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes before cutting.
How do I make this nut-free?
Simply leave out the pecans; the bites are still delicious and beautiful. For a bit of crunch, you can add a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or just let the pastry and cheese shine.
Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
Yes, store-bought whole berry cranberry sauce saves time and works perfectly here. If you want a homemade touch, you can simmer fresh cranberries with sugar and orange zest for extra zing.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Cranberry Brie Bites enough for your next gathering or cozy night in. They’re everything you want in an appetizer—simple, customizable, and always a hit. Give them a try and watch everyone reach for seconds (and thirds)!
Print
Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful combination of creamy Brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and crunchy pecans, all nestled in a flaky puff pastry cup. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a party finger food, these bites are easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed;
Brie Cheese:
1 wheel (8 oz) Brie cheese, cut into 24 small cubes;
Cranberry Sauce:
1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce;
Pecans:
1/4 cup chopped pecans;
Rosemary:
1 sprig fresh rosemary, finely chopped;
Optional:
honey for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 24 equal squares. Press each square into the wells of the mini muffin tin.
- Assemble the Bites: Place a cube of Brie into each pastry cup. Top each with a small spoonful of cranberry sauce and a sprinkle of chopped pecans. Add a pinch of chopped rosemary to each bite.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan. Drizzle with honey if desired before serving.
Notes
- These bites are best served warm but can also be served at room temperature.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans.
- You can use crescent roll dough instead of puff pastry for a softer texture.
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