Cranberry Brie Bites are a tasty treat perfect for any gathering! These little pastries are filled with creamy brie cheese and topped with sweet cranberry sauce, all wrapped in flaky pastry.
They are simple to make and always impress friends and family. I love serving them as appetizers; they disappear fast! You might want to grab a few extra for yourself, just saying! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry is the base of the bites. If you can’t find puff pastry, you could use phyllo dough or even biscuit dough in a pinch, though the texture will be a bit different.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creamy richness. If you’re not a fan, try camembert or even a soft goat cheese for a tangy alternative!
Cranberry Sauce: You can use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce. If you want something tangy, consider a chutney or even apple compote!
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans bring a nice crunch. If you’re allergic or prefer not to use nuts, omit them or replace them with sunflower seeds.
How Do You Get the Perfect Puff Pastry Shells?
Making crisp and fluffy pastry shells is key for these bites. Here are some helpful tips:
- Keep the pastry cold. When it warms up, it’ll lose its puffiness.
- Roll the pastry evenly to avoid thin spots, which can burn easily.
- Press the pastry firmly into the muffin tin, ensuring it fills all the corners.
- Use an egg wash on the edges to achieve that beautiful golden color.
This technique makes a huge difference in achieving the final look and taste of your Cranberry Brie Bites!
Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for topping)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, to sprinkle on top for added sweetness and crunch)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for preparation and 15-18 minutes for baking, totaling around 25-30 minutes to make these tasty bites. They’re quick to prepare, making them perfect for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the pastry into 24 small squares, aiming for pieces that are about 2 inches each.
3. Create Pastry Shells:
Gently press each square of puff pastry into the cups of the mini muffin tin to form little shells. Make sure they fit properly, creating space for the fillings.
4. Add the Brie:
Place a small piece of Brie cheese into the bottom of each puff pastry cup. Don’t be shy, the creamy Brie is what makes these bites so delicious!
5. Top with Cranberry Sauce:
Add about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of the Brie in each cup. This sweet and tart layer beautifully complements the cheese.
6. Add Nuts (Optional):
If you’re using nuts, sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans over the cranberry sauce for extra crunch and flavor.
7. Sweeten It Up:
If you want a little extra sweetness, sprinkle a tiny bit of brown sugar on top of each cup. This caramelizes nicely as they bake!
8. Egg Wash for Golden Color:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Use a pastry brush to carefully brush the edges of the puff pastry to give it that golden-brown look when baked.
9. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes. Watch closely until the pastry is golden and puffed, and the cheese has melted.
10. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and let it cool slightly before carefully removing the bites. They may be a bit hot, so watch your fingers!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
If desired, garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for a lovely touch. Serve the Cranberry Brie Bites warm and enjoy the smiles they bring!
These bites make for a delightful snack or festive appetizer. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Absolutely! While Brie is creamy and rich, you can substitute it with camembert or even a soft goat cheese for a slightly different flavor profile. Just ensure you’re using a soft cheese that melts well!
What If I Don’t Have Puff Pastry?
If puff pastry isn’t available, you can use phyllo dough for a lighter bite or biscuit dough for a heartier option. Just note that the texture will change a bit, but they will still be delicious!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pastry shells and fill them with cheese and sauce, then store them covered in the fridge for up to a day. Bake them just before serving to enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!