Pin A festive and effortless appetizer featuring creamy Brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and crisp puff pastry—perfect for holiday gatherings or any elegant occasion.
This recipe quickly became a holiday favorite during my family gatherings, impressing guests every time.
Ingredients
- Dairy: 200 g (7 oz) Brie cheese, cut into 24 small cubes
- Pastry: 1 sheet (about 250 g) ready-rolled puff pastry, thawed if frozen
- Condiments: 120 g (1/2 cup) cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Garnish (optional): 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme
- Garnish (optional): 24 pecan halves or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
- Prepare Pastry:
- Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 24 equal squares.
- Form Cups:
- Gently press each pastry square into the wells of the mini muffin tin to form small cups.
- Add Brie:
- Place a cube of Brie into each pastry cup.
- Add Cranberry Sauce:
- Top each with 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
- Add Garnish:
- Optionally, sprinkle with chopped herbs or add a pecan half on top for extra flavor and crunch.
- Bake:
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Cool:
- Cool for 5 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.
Pin These bites bring smiles to my family's faces during our holiday celebrations, making every occasion special.
Required Tools
Mini muffin tin (24-cup), sharp knife, cutting board, spoon
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (Brie cheese), Wheat/Gluten (puff pastry), Tree nuts (if using pecans or walnuts). Always check labels for possible traces of allergens in store-bought products.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 80 per serving, Total Fat: 5 g, Carbohydrates: 7 g, Protein: 2 g
Pin Serve these brie bites warm for the best texture and flavor every time.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute Brie with other cheeses?
Yes, soft cheeses like Camembert or goat cheese make excellent alternatives, offering varied flavors and creaminess.
- → How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy?
Pressing the puff pastry firmly into the muffin tin and pre-baking slightly can help maintain a crisp texture.
- → Are there nut-free options for garnish?
Yes, simply omit the pecans or walnuts, or use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for extra texture.
- → What herbs complement these bites best?
Fresh rosemary or thyme add fragrant notes that enhance both the cheese and cranberry flavors.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Prepare the pastry cups and fillings separately; assemble and bake just before serving for optimal freshness.