Name: Irresistible Brie and Cranberry Bites for Quick Entertaining
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 sheet Puff Pastry (from a 17.3-ounce package); 1 wheel Brie Cheese (8-ounce, keep chilled for easy cutting); 1/2 cup Cranberry Sauce (whole berry); 1 large Egg; 1 tablespoon Water; 1/4 cup Nuts (chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted); Garnishes (Honey, flaky sea salt, or fresh herbs)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the inviting scent of buttery pastry wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy gathering filled with laughter and good company. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Brie and Cranberry Bites, an elegant appetizer that’s perfect for holiday entertaining or casual get-togethers. These bites are not only simple to make, but they also deliver a delightful combination of creamy brie and tangy cranberry sauce, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. With a bit of prep in advance, you can savor more time with loved ones rather than stressing in the kitchen. Ready to impress your guests and create unforgettable memories? Let’s dive into these mouthwatering bites that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Why Are Brie and Cranberry Bites Irresistible?

Simplicity: These bites require only a handful of pantry staples, making them an effortless yet sophisticated appetizer for any gathering.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of warm, gooey brie and sweet-tart cranberry sauce delivers a flavor explosion that will have guests raving.

Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these bites up to 24 hours in advance, so when your guests arrive, you can focus on enjoying the moment, just like with my Wrapped Mozzarella Bites.

Versatile Filling Options: Feel free to swap out cranberry sauce for your favorite jam, giving you the freedom to adjust flavors and cater to different tastes.

Stunning Presentation: Golden, flaky pastry cups create an elegant look that will impress even the most discerning guests.

Unleash the host in you and watch these special bites steal the show!

Brie and Cranberry Bites Ingredients

Sure to enchant your guests!

For the Bites
• Puff Pastry – 1 sheet (from a 17.3-ounce package), providing that perfect flaky texture; choose all-butter for a richer flavor.
• Brie Cheese – 1 (8-ounce) wheel, adding the creamy goodness you crave; keep chilled for easy cutting.
• Cranberry Sauce – ½ cup whole berry, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness; substitute with your favorite jam for variety.

For the Egg Wash
• Egg – 1 large, for achieving that beautiful golden finish on your bites.
• Water – 1 tablespoon, helping to create a smooth egg wash that coats evenly.

Optional Add-Ins
• Nuts – ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted, for an added crunch and flavor boost.
• Garnishes – Honey, flaky sea salt, or fresh herbs to enhance both flavor and presentation.

These Brie and Cranberry Bites will be the highlight of your next gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brie and Cranberry Bites

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms, prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This initial step sets the stage for your Brie and Cranberry Bites to become perfectly golden and flaky as they bake.

Step 2: Prepare Brie
Take the chilled brie cheese and carefully cut it into 24 half-inch cubes, leaving the rind intact for added flavor and structure. As you work, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even melting during baking. Set the brie cubes aside, allowing them to start warming slightly while you prepare the pastry.

Step 3: Prepare Puff Pastry
Next, roll out the thawed puff pastry on a clean, floured surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the pastry into 24 square pieces, each about 3×3 inches. These squares will serve as the delightful base for your Brie and Cranberry Bites, providing a cozy nest to hold all the delicious fillings.

Step 4: Assemble Bites
Press the pastry squares gently into a mini muffin tin, each forming a small cup. Place a brie cube in the center of each pastry cup, then generously top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture in your Brie and Cranberry Bites.

Step 5: Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together one large egg and one tablespoon of water to create a smooth egg wash. Using a pastry brush, carefully brush the edges of each pastry cup with the egg wash to ensure a beautiful golden finish as they bake. This step enhances the visual appeal of your Brie and Cranberry Bites while adding a touch of shine.

Step 6: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, looking for the pastry to puff up and turn a lovely golden brown color, with the cheese bubbling enticingly. The aroma filling your kitchen will surely have everyone eagerly anticipating these delicious bites.

Step 7: Cool & Garnish
Once baked to perfection, remove the tin from the oven and allow the Brie and Cranberry Bites to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a serving platter, garnishing with a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or fresh herbs if desired. Your elegant appetizer is now ready to impress your guests!

How to Store and Freeze Brie and Cranberry Bites

Fridge: Store leftover Brie and Cranberry Bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore that delightful flakiness.

Freezer: To keep them longer, freeze unbaked assembled bites on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Reheating: If baked and stored in the fridge, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will revive their golden crust and gooey filling.

Make-Ahead: For easier entertaining, prepare these bites up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, giving you more time to enjoy the occasion with friends and family.

Expert Tips for Brie and Cranberry Bites

Use Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality brie and real butter puff pastry; this elevates the flavor of your Brie and Cranberry Bites.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid leakage by not overfilling with cranberry sauce. A spoonful per bite is plenty to retain that delightful creaminess of the brie.
Chill Your Ingredients: Keep the brie cold until you’re ready to assemble, making it easier to cut and ensuring it melts beautifully without spilling.
Bake on Parchment: Always use parchment paper on your baking sheet for easy removal and clean-up once those irresistible Brie and Cranberry Bites are ready to serve.
Experiment with Variations: Feel free to swap the cranberry sauce with other jams like fig or apricot for a whole new taste experience that keeps your guests guessing!

Make Ahead Options

Busy home cooks will love that you can prepare these Brie and Cranberry Bites up to 24 hours in advance! Simply assemble the bites by placing the brie and cranberry sauce into the pastry cups, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This method ensures that the quality remains just as delicious, with the puff pastry staying flaky and the cheese creamy. When you’re ready to impress your guests, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly golden bites. With this prep, you can spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones!

Brie and Cranberry Bites Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine as you customize these delightful bites!

Fruit Swap: Substitute cranberry sauce with apple or pear preserves for a sweeter profile. The delicate notes of fruit will complement the brie’s richness beautifully.
Cheese Alternatives: Use camembert or goat cheese as alternatives to brie for an exciting twist. Each cheese offers a unique flavor that can delight your taste buds in a new way.
Nutty Crunch: Add ¼ cup of chopped hazelnuts or slivered almonds instead of pecans or walnuts for a different texture. Nuts not only add crunch but also contribute distinct flavors.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the garnish for added aroma and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the bites to gourmet status.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle a touch of hot honey or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a hint of heat. It’s a simple yet effective way to spice things up!
Savory Surprise: Try adding a layer of caramelized onions or roasted garlic under the cheese. This savory element pairs perfectly with the sweetness of cranberry and brie.
Mini-Meals: For heartier bites, layer in cooked, seasoned ground sausage or shredded chicken before adding the cheese. This adds protein and makes for a more filling appetizer.
Sweet & Savory Blend: Combine cranberry sauce with a splash of balsamic reduction for balanced flavor. The acidity of balsamic perfectly cuts through the richness of the cheese.

Get inspired and create your perfect version of these Brie and Cranberry Bites! They pair perfectly with my Brown Crust Bacon for your next gathering.

What to Serve with Brie and Cranberry Bites?

Give your holiday gathering a touch of magic with these delightful pairings that elevate your appetizer game.

Sparkling Wine: The bubbles and acidity of sparkling wine perfectly contrast the creamy brie, adding a celebratory flair to your celebration.
Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette awakens the palate, balancing the rich flavors of the bites with refreshing, crisp notes. Greens like arugula or spinach can add a peppery twist.
Herbed Crostini: Crunchy crostini topped with fresh herbs provide a delightful textural contrast, perfect for scooping up any extra cranberry sauce or cheese.
Butternut Squash Soup: A warm, creamy soup adds warmth and richness to your spread, creating cozy, comforting flavors that harmonize wonderfully with the bites.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots offer vibrant colors and flavors, bringing a rustic touch to your table that compliments your elegant appetizers.
Hot Apple Cider: A warm spiced apple cider infuses the gathering with holiday spirit, with hints of cinnamon and cloves accentuating the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
Chocolate Truffles: For a sweet finale, serve delicate chocolate truffles. Their richness pairs beautifully with the bite’s creamy brie, proving the perfect end to a delightful evening.
Honey Drizzle: A simple yet effective addition, a drizzle of honey over the bites enhances their sweetness and creates a lovely glossy finish that will have guests grabbing for more.

Let these pairings inspire a memorable gathering, allowing your Brie and Cranberry Bites to shine even brighter!

Brie and Cranberry Bites Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best Brie cheese for my bites?
Absolutely! When choosing Brie, look for a wheel with a creamy texture and a slight give when gently pressed. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, as this can indicate spoilage. Fresh Brie should have a bright white rind and an inviting aroma.

How should I store leftover Brie and Cranberry Bites?
You can store leftover Brie and Cranberry Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore that delightful flakiness and warm, gooey center.

Can I freeze these bites?
Very! To freeze, assemble the Brie and Cranberry Bites but do not bake them. Place the unbaked bites on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my puff pastry is soggy?
No worries! If you find your puff pastry soggy, ensure that you’re using enough flour while rolling it out and pressing it into the muffin tin. Also, don’t overfill the bites with cranberry sauce to prevent excess moisture. If it happens, bake them a little longer to achieve that golden crispiness.

Are Brie and Cranberry Bites safe for my pet to eat?
While Brie is safe for dogs in small amounts, it’s best to avoid giving them any of the bites due to the cranberry sauce and puff pastry, which can be harmful in larger quantities. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.

Can I make Brie and Cranberry Bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bites up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This way, when your guests arrive, you can enjoy their company instead of being stuck in the kitchen!