Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites are the ultimate holiday appetizer—simple, elegant, and absolutely irresistible. These bite-sized treats feature buttery puff pastry filled with creamy brie cheese and sweet-tart cranberry sauce, all baked until golden and melty. They’re festive, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bites are a delicious mix of creamy, flaky, and fruity, all in one perfect mouthful. They’re easy to make with just a few ingredients, can be assembled ahead of time, and look as good as they taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or need a quick and fancy finger food, Cranberry Brie Bites come through every time. They also strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Puff pastry sheets (thawed if frozen)
• Brie cheese (cut into small cubes)
• Cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
• Fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)
• Egg (for egg wash, optional)
• Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut into small squares (about 2-inch pieces).
3. Press each puff pastry square into the cups of the muffin tin.
4. Place a cube of brie into each pastry cup.
5. Top each with a small spoonful of cranberry sauce.
6. Optional: add chopped nuts or a small sprig of rosemary on top.
7. Brush the edges of the pastry with egg wash if desired for a golden finish.
8. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden and the brie is melted.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving warm.

Servings and timing

Makes 24 bites
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Savory Twist: Add a pinch of cracked black pepper or a dot of hot honey for contrast.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or pistachios over the cranberry sauce.
• Herby Flavor: Add thyme or rosemary for an aromatic finish.
• Spicy-Sweet: Use jalapeño cranberry sauce or add a slice of pepper jelly for a kick.
• Figgy Swap: Replace cranberry sauce with fig jam or apricot preserves for a different flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until heated through and pastry is crisp again.
Avoid microwaving, as the pastry may become soggy.
Not recommended for freezing once baked, but you can freeze the assembled, unbaked bites and bake from frozen.

FAQs

Can I use canned cranberry sauce?

Yes, both whole berry and jellied cranberry sauce work well in this recipe.

Do I need to remove the rind from the brie?

No, the rind is edible and softens when baked. You can trim it if you prefer, but it’s not necessary.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bites and refrigerate them unbaked for a few hours. Bake right before serving.

Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?

You can, but puff pastry gives a richer, flakier texture. Phyllo will be crispier and more delicate.

What kind of cranberry sauce works best?

Whole berry cranberry sauce is ideal for texture and visual appeal, but you can use your favorite.

Are these good at room temperature?

They’re best warm, but still tasty at room temperature, making them great for parties.

Can I make them in a regular muffin tin?

Yes, just cut larger pastry squares and adjust the filling. Bake a few minutes longer.

What cheese substitutes can I use?

Camembert or goat cheese work well as brie alternatives.

Can I freeze them?

You can freeze the unbaked bites and bake directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I keep the pastry from getting soggy?

Use a thicker cranberry sauce and don’t overfill. Bake until the pastry is golden and crisp.

Conclusion

Cranberry Brie Bites are an easy, elegant appetizer that looks impressive and tastes even better. With flaky pastry, melty brie, and a touch of sweet cranberry, they bring the perfect bite of holiday cheer to any gathering. Whether for a festive celebration or a cozy night in, these bites are always a hit.

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