Cranberry Brie Bites are little puff pastry pockets filled with creamy brie and sweet cranberry sauce. They are crispy, gooey, and perfect for any gathering!
These bites always disappear fast at parties! I mean, who can resist that melty cheese and tart cranberry combo? I can’t stop at just one! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of your dish, giving it that flaky texture. If you’re short on time, you can use phyllo dough, but remember, it won’t be as thick and fluffy as puff pastry.
Brie Cheese: A soft cheese that melts wonderfully. If brie is hard to find, try Camembert or even cream cheese for a different texture, but keep in mind it won’t have the same flavor.
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade always tastes better! But if you’re in a rush, store-bought works just fine. Look for one with minimal added sugar for a more balanced taste.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies, feel free to skip them or substitute with sunflower seeds.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Puff Pastry Bites?
Creating perfectly puff pastry bites is all about careful handling and baking. Here are some tips:
- Thaw the puff pastry in the fridge overnight for best results. If you’re short on time, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Don’t overwork the pastry to keep it light and flaky. Roll it out gently and cut your squares without pressing too hard.
- Be generous with the egg wash on the edges; it helps achieve that golden color and nice shine.
- Watch the oven closely during the last few minutes. They can go from perfect to overdone quickly!
How to Make Cranberry Brie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bites:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz brie cheese, cut into small squares or slices
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, finely chopped (optional)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and another 12-15 minutes for baking. So, in total, around 25-30 minutes to make these yummy bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bites from sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Once your puff pastry is thawed, gently roll it out on a floured surface just to smooth it out. Use a cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut the pastry into small squares, about 2 inches wide.
3. Assemble the Bites:
Place each puff pastry square on the lined baking sheet. In the center of each square, lay a piece of brie cheese. Spoon about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce right on top of the brie.
4. Add Nuts (Optional):
If you like a little crunch, sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans over the cranberry sauce. This step is optional but adds a nice texture!
5. Brush with Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, beat one egg. Use a brush to lightly coat the edges of each pastry square with the egg wash. This will give them a beautifully golden color when baked.
6. Bake Until Golden:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and once the pastry is golden and puffed, they’re ready to come out!
7. Cool and Garnish:
After removing them from the oven, let the bites cool for a few minutes. Then, if you’d like, place a small sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary on top for a lovely finish.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy these warm and cheesy cranberry brie bites as a delightful appetizer or snack. They’ll be a hit with everyone!
Can I Use Store-Bought Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry is convenient and works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before use for the best results.
Can I Make These Bites Vegetarian?
Yes! The ingredients are already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure your puff pastry does not contain any animal-derived ingredients, which is usually the case for most commercial puff pastries.
What Can I Substitute for Brie Cheese?
If you can’t find brie or want a different cheese, Camembert is a great alternative. For a milder flavor, consider using cream cheese, though it won’t melt the same way.
How Do I Store Leftover Cranberry Brie Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until they’re warm and crispy again.
