Cranberry Brie Bites

Introduction

Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful combination of rich, creamy brie cheese and sweet-tart cranberry sauce, all nestled in a crisp puff pastry. These bite-sized treats are an irresistible blend of savory and sweet, making them perfect for a festive appetizer or a savory snack. The contrast of warm, melty cheese with the zesty cranberry is sure to impress guests at any gathering.

I first made these during a holiday get-together, and they were a huge hit. The moment they came out of the oven, the kitchen filled with a mouthwatering aroma, and everyone eagerly grabbed a bite. What’s great about these bites is how easy they are to make with minimal ingredients. You can prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven right before serving, so there’s no stress during your event.

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something simple yet elegant, these Cranberry Brie Bites are the perfect choice!

Perfect for:

• Holiday gatherings
• Family parties
• Cocktail hour
• Appetizers for a dinner party
• Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Brie Bites

Here’s why Cranberry Brie Bites will become your new favorite:

• Savory and Sweet Flavor: The rich, creamy brie pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart cranberry sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow, with only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making it a go-to for quick appetizers.
• Elegant Presentation: These little bites are not only delicious but also look fancy, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
• Crispy and Flaky: The puff pastry provides a light and flaky texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy brie and the juicy cranberry sauce.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the flavor by adding herbs, nuts, or other fruits to the filling.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 24 bites
• Calories per serving: Approximately 100-120 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cranberry Brie Bites:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed, if frozen)
• 8 oz brie cheese (cut into small cubes)
• ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional)
• 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Puff Pastry: The puff pastry is light and buttery, creating a crispy, flaky base for the rich brie and cranberry combination.
• Brie Cheese: Brie is the ideal choice here for its creamy texture and mild, slightly tangy flavor that complements the sweet cranberry sauce.
• Cranberry Sauce: The cranberry sauce adds a tart and sweet element that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the brie.
• Thyme: Fresh thyme adds an herby note that enhances the flavors and adds depth to the bites.
• Nuts: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts provides a crunchy texture that complements the soft brie and flaky pastry.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cranberry Brie Bites:

Prepare the Bites:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut the pastry into 2-inch squares or circles. You should be able to cut about 24 pieces, depending on the size of your cutter.
3. Assemble the Bites: Place the puff pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet. Top each square with a small cube of brie cheese. Spoon about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce over the cheese. If using, sprinkle with fresh thyme and/or chopped nuts.
4. Egg Wash (Optional): Beat the egg and brush it lightly over the edges of the puff pastry for a golden finish.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Cool: Let the bites cool for a few minutes before serving. The cheese will be hot, so allow it to set slightly before enjoying.

How to Serve Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites are perfect for a variety of occasions:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these as a starter for your holiday meals or dinner parties.
• With a Glass of Wine: Pair with a light white wine or sparkling beverage for an elegant touch.
• For Parties and Gatherings: These bites are perfect for cocktail hour or as part of a buffet spread.
• Holiday Celebrations: Add a festive touch to your holiday table with these sweet and savory treats.
• Brunch or Snack: These make for a great addition to a brunch spread or an afternoon snack.

Additional Tips for Cranberry Brie Bites

Here are some tips to ensure your Cranberry Brie Bites are perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Puff Pastry: For the best texture, make sure your puff pastry is fresh and fully thawed before using.
• Don’t Overstuff: While it may be tempting, don’t overstuff the bites with cranberry sauce or brie, as they may spill over during baking.
• Serve Warm: These bites are best served warm, so bake them just before serving for the perfect experience.
• Customize the Fillings: You can add a variety of toppings, such as caramelized onions or a drizzle of honey, to elevate the flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the bites in advance, then refrigerate or freeze them until ready to bake.
• Use a Sharp Knife: When cutting the brie, use a sharp knife to avoid squishing the cheese. You can remove the rind if preferred, but it’s not necessary.
• Try Different Nuts: For added crunch, try using different nuts like almonds or pistachios instead of pecans or walnuts.

Recipe Variations for Cranberry Brie Bites

Here are 10 variations you can try for Cranberry Brie Bites:

• Apple and Brie Bites: Replace cranberry sauce with thinly sliced apples for a slightly sweeter bite.
• Caramelized Onion and Brie Bites: Add caramelized onions along with the cranberry sauce for a more savory flavor.
• Pecan and Maple Syrup Bites: Top the brie with pecans and drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet and nutty twist.
• Balsamic Glaze Bites: Drizzle the finished bites with balsamic glaze for a tangy-sweet finish.
• Pear and Brie Bites: Replace cranberry sauce with pear slices for a fruity variation.
• Prosciutto and Brie Bites: Add a slice of prosciutto for a savory, salty bite that pairs perfectly with the brie.
• Spinach and Brie Bites: Add a small amount of sautéed spinach for a savory, green addition.
• Blueberry and Brie Bites: Swap cranberry sauce with blueberry preserves for a slightly different fruit flavor.
• Chili and Honey Bites: Add a bit of chili flakes and drizzle with honey for a spicy-sweet variation.
• Herbed Brie Bites: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or basil along with the cranberry sauce for an herby twist.

Freezing and Storage for Cranberry Brie Bites

• Freezing: Assemble the cranberry brie bites, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover baked bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes before serving.

Special Equipment for Cranberry Brie Bites

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Cranberry Brie Bites easier:

• Cookie Cutter or Glass: A cutter or glass will help you easily shape the puff pastry into squares or circles.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mats will ensure easy removal of the bites.
• Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is ideal for applying an egg wash for a golden, crispy finish.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will help you cut the brie into neat cubes.
• Measuring Spoons: Measuring spoons will help you portion out the cranberry sauce accurately.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cranberry Brie Bites

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can use other cheeses like goat cheese, camembert, or cream cheese, but brie provides the best creamy texture for these bites.
2. Can I make these bites ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble them in advance, refrigerate, or freeze them, and then bake them when you’re ready.
3. Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
   Yes, store-bought cranberry sauce works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it’s thick enough to stay on the brie.
4. Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
   Yes, you can use phyllo dough, but puff pastry will give a more tender and flaky texture.
5. Can I make these bites vegetarian?
   Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian, but you can also make them vegan by using a non-dairy cheese and egg wash substitute.

Print

Conclusion

Cranberry Brie Bites are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence, offering a perfect balance of creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and buttery, flaky puff pastry. These little gems are so easy to make and are the perfect addition to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, enjoying a cozy family gathering, or simply looking for an elegant snack, these Cranberry Brie Bites will be the star of the show.

The best part? They’re super versatile! You can customize them with your favorite fruit spreads, nuts, or even a drizzle of honey for extra flair. Whatever you choose, you’re in for a delicious treat that’s sure to impress!

I’d love to see how your Cranberry Brie Bites turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your tasty creations! Happy cooking!