Cranberry Brie Bites

When it comes to holiday gatherings, having a quick, elegant, and crowd-pleasing appetizer on hand is a must.

That’s where Cranberry Brie Bites come in. These little golden treasures combine buttery puff pastry, creamy brie cheese, and tart cranberry sauce into the perfect festive bite-sized treat.

Not only are they visually stunning on a holiday platter, but they’re also incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Brie Bites

• Festive & Elegant: The deep red cranberries paired with creamy melted brie make these bites look fancy with minimal effort.

• Quick & Easy: Using puff pastry shortcuts the prep time while still giving you a golden, flaky base.

• Perfect for Parties: These appetizers are bite-sized and mess-free, making them ideal for holiday gatherings, cocktail parties, or even Thanksgiving.

• Crowd-Pleaser: The balance of sweet and savory flavors means they appeal to just about everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites are a quick and elegant holiday appetizer made with flaky puff pastry, creamy brie, and tangy cranberry sauce.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 12 bites

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
• 1 small wheel of brie cheese cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce homemade or canned
• Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
2. Roll out puff pastry and cut into 12 small squares.
3. Place each square into the muffin tin, pressing down to form cups.
4. Add one cube of brie into each pastry cup.
5. Top with about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until pastry is puffed and golden and cheese is melted.
7. Remove from oven, garnish with rosemary, and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the pastry: Thaw the puff pastry slightly so it’s easy to work with. Cut it into small squares to fit into mini muffin tins(at least 24).

2. Assemble the bites: Place a puff pastry square into each muffin tin cup. Add a cube of brie cheese and a spoonful of cranberry sauce on top.

3. Nestle a piece of brie into each pastry cup. Top with cranberry sauce for the classic version, or with your favorite jam if you want to switch things up.

4. Bake: Pop the tray into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

5. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh rosemary or orange zest for a festive touch.

Serve & Enjoy: Serve warm right out of the oven or at room temperature.

Variations to Try

• Add a Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for extra texture.

• Sweet Twist: Drizzle with honey before serving for added sweetness.

• Savory Flair: Add a tiny dollop of caramelized onions underneath the brie for more depth of flavor.

Tips for Success

Use a mini muffin tin to keep the bites perfectly shaped.

Brie doesn’t need to be peeled—its rind is edible and melts beautifully.

Make ahead by prepping the bites and refrigerating them unbaked; pop them in the oven just before serving.

Serving Ideas

Cranberry Brie Bites are best served as part of a festive appetizer spread.

Pair them with other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms, charcuterie boards, or spiced nuts.

They also make a stunning addition to holiday brunches.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s easy, elegant, and delicious, then Cranberry Brie Bites are the answer.

With just four main ingredients and minimal prep time, they’ll become your go-to holiday snack.

Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or attending a casual potluck, these little bites are guaranteed to disappear quickly.

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Recommended Tools & Ingredients for Cranberry Brie Bites

1. Frozen Puff Pastry Sheets

2. Nonstick Mini Muffin Pan

3. Imported Brie Cheese Wheel

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes! Phyllo dough creates a lighter, crispier texture compared to puff pastry. Just layer a few sheets with butter in between to prevent them from drying out.

2. Do I need to remove the rind from the brie?
No, the rind on brie is edible and melts beautifully. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can trim it off, but it’s not necessary.

3. Can I make Cranberry Brie Bites ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble them a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake fresh before serving for the best taste and texture.

4. What can I use instead of cranberry sauce?
You can substitute with raspberry jam, fig jam, or even pomegranate sauce for a different twist.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.