Cranberry Brie Bites
Picture this: warm, gooey Brie wrapped in buttery pastry and topped with tangy cranberry sauce. These bites are pure holiday magic in under 30 minutes, and trust me, they disappear faster than you can make them!
Why I Love This Recipe:
Cranberry Brie Bites are my go-to for entertaining. They’re elegant, effortless, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, these little gems never fail to impress. Plus, they’re a breeze to make, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy the festivities.
How to Make It
- Cut your puff pastry into small squares. This is your base, so aim for pieces big enough to fold around the Brie but small enough to create bite-sized perfection.
- Place a piece of Brie in the center of each pastry square. Use a soft, creamy Brie that melts beautifully. Trim the rind if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Add a dollop of cranberry sauce on top of the Brie. You can use homemade cranberry sauce for a personal touch or your favorite store-bought variety.
- Fold the pastry edges up and around the Brie and cranberry. Pinch the corners lightly to seal and create a neat little package.
- Brush with egg wash and bake until golden brown. The egg wash adds that irresistible sheen and helps the pastry crisp up perfectly.
Pro Tips:
- Chill the pastry: Keep the puff pastry cold while working to make it easier to handle and ensure a flaky bake.If it gets too soft, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
- Use good Brie: The quality of your Brie makes a big difference. Look for a creamy, mild variety for the best flavor.If you’re feeling adventurous, try a flavored Brie, like herb or garlic, for a fun twist.
- Customize your toppings: Swap cranberry sauce for fig jam, apricot preserves, or even a dollop of honey for a different flavor profile.Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for crunch.
- Make ahead: Assemble the bites, then refrigerate until ready to bake. Perfect for stress-free entertaining!You can also freeze them unbaked and bake straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Storage:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to bring back the crispiness.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked bites on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen for ultimate convenience.
Tools For This Recipe:
- Rolling pin
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Mini muffin tin (optional but helps keep the bites uniform)
- Pastry brush (for egg wash)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
FAQs:
Q: Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry? A: Absolutely! Phyllo dough will give you a crispier texture but requires more careful handling.
Q: What if I don’t like cranberry sauce? A: Swap it for your favorite jam or chutney—apricot, raspberry, or even onion jam works beautifully.
Q: Can I serve these at room temperature? A: They’re best warm, but they’re still delicious at room temp. Just make sure to store them properly if serving later.
Cranberry Brie Bites
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
- 4 oz Brie cheese cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg beaten, for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into 12 equal squares.
- Place a piece of Brie in the center of each pastry square.
- Add a small spoonful of cranberry sauce on top of the Brie.
- Fold the corners of the pastry up and around the filling, pinching lightly to seal.
- Arrange the bites on the prepared baking sheet or in the muffin tin.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- Substitute Brie with goat cheese for a tangy variation.
- Replace cranberry sauce with apricot or fig preserves for a different flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dash of cinnamon to the cranberry sauce for extra flair.
