Baked cranberry brie bites are a delicious little treat that combines creamy brie cheese with sweet and tangy cranberries, all wrapped in flaky pastry. Perfect for parties!
These bites are always a hit at gatherings, and they’re so easy to make! Just pop them in the oven and watch everyone enjoy them. I can never resist snagging a couple for myself! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is what makes your bites flaky and golden. If you don’t have puff pastry, use phyllo dough; just layer a few sheets together for a similar texture. Store-bought is usually the easiest, but homemade can be fun too!
Brie Cheese: You can’t go wrong with brie for this recipe! If brie isn’t available, Camembert is a great substitute. For a lower-fat option, you might try a soft cheese like goat cheese, but the flavor will change a bit.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use store-bought for convenience, but homemade is often tastier. If cranberries are out of season, try using another fruit jam like raspberry or cherry for a different twist!
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized top. If you prefer, you can substitute granulated sugar or even honey, adjusting the quantity to taste.
How Do I Get Perfectly Baked Pastry Bites?
Getting that perfect puff pastry is all about the baking technique! Follow these tips to ensure your bites turn out just right:
- Make sure your puff pastry is thawed completely before rolling it out, which helps it puff nicely in the oven.
- Roll it out just enough to flatten. Don’t overwork, as this could make it tough.
- Don’t skip the browning step—bake until golden for the best texture. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning!
- Let them cool a few minutes after baking before serving; this helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to handle.
Baked Cranberry Brie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small slices
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to bake, for a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those last-minute snack cravings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your bites. Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Once it’s rolled out, cut it into approximately 12 equal squares. This will be the base of your bites!
3. Form the Bites:
Gently press each pastry square into the cups of a mini muffin tin. Make sure to press it down enough to form small tart shells that can hold the cheese and cranberry.
4. Add the Brie Cheese:
Take a slice of brie cheese and place it inside each pastry shell. Don’t be shy; it’s okay to let it peek out a bit!
5. Top with Cranberry Sauce:
Using a spoon, add about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of the brie. It adds that sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
6. Sprinkle with Brown Sugar:
Now, sprinkle a small pinch of brown sugar over each bite. This will caramelize beautifully while baking and add some delightful sweetness!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is nice and melty. Keep an eye on them towards the end!
8. Garnish and Cool:
Once they’re baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish each bite with a small sprig of fresh rosemary for a touch of flavor and presentation.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
These tasty bites are best enjoyed warm, but they also taste great at room temperature. Serve them up at your next gathering, and watch them disappear!
These Baked Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful combination of flavors and textures—flaky pastry, gooey cheese, and a touch of sweetness. They’re bound to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge or at room temperature before using it. This will ensure it rolls out smoothly and puffs nicely in the oven.
What Can I Use Instead of Brie Cheese?
If you don’t have brie on hand, you can substitute it with Camembert or another soft cheese like goat cheese. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Bites?
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the pastry crispy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the bites a few hours before baking. Just cover them with plastic wrap and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to pop them in the oven. You may need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time if they’re cold.
