These Baked Cranberry Brie Bites are a delicious treat that burst with flavor! Each bite features creamy brie and sweet-tart cranberry sauce wrapped in crispy pastry.
They’re perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. I love making a batch to snack on while binge-watching my favorite show—it’s basically a fancy cheese plate that fits in your hand!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the base of your bites, providing a flaky, buttery texture. If you don’t have puff pastry, try using phyllo dough, which can give a different, crispy texture. Just layer it a bit to create a thicker base!
Brie Cheese: Brie is creamy and has a mild flavor, making it perfect here. You could swap it with Camembert for a similar taste or even a softer cheese like goat cheese if you’re looking for something tangy.
Cranberry Sauce: Store-bought cranberry sauce works well, but homemade is great too! You can use a fruit preserve like raspberry or a different berry. Just keep the flavor balanced with something a bit tart.
Nuts: I like walnuts or pecans for added crunch, but feel free to try sliced almonds or even omit them if nuts aren’t your thing. You could also use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Fresh Rosemary: This herb gives a wonderful aroma and flavor. If you don’t have rosemary, thyme is a good alternative and pairs nicely with the cheese and cranberry!
How Do I Ensure My Bites Are Perfectly Baked?
Baking these bites just right is key to enjoying their flavors. Here’s how to get it done:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking. Always make sure it’s hot before you pop the bites in!
- Keep an eye on the baking time—15-20 minutes should do, but your oven may bake faster or slower. They’re ready when the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
- Allow them to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps them set up and makes them easier to remove from the tin.
Trust me, following these tips will give you crispy and delightful Baked Cranberry Brie Bites every time! Enjoy your delicious snacking!
How to Make Baked Cranberry Brie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small cubes
- ½ cup cranberry sauce (fresh or canned)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer takes roughly 10 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in just about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious treat ready to serve at your next gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your thawed puff pastry. Cut it into small squares that are about 2×2 inches in size. This will be the base for your bites!
3. Form the Shells:
Take each pastry square and gently press it into the cups of a mini muffin tin. Ensure the dough fits nicely to create little pastry shells that will hold all the delicious fillings.
4. Add the Cheese:
Place a cube of Brie cheese inside each pastry cup. This will melt beautifully and become creamy in the oven.
5. Add the Cranberry Sauce:
Top each Brie cube with about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce. This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the cheese!
6. Mix Nuts and Rosemary:
In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts or pecans with the finely chopped rosemary. Sprinkle a little of this mixture on top of each bite for a delightful crunch and flavor.
7. Egg Wash Time:
Brush the edges of each pastry with the beaten egg. This will help them turn golden brown and give them a lovely shine when baked.
8. Bake the Bites:
Pop the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the pastry is puffed up and a beautiful golden color, and the cheese is soft and gooey.
9. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, take the tin out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then gently remove each bite from the tin. Be careful as they will be hot!
10. Garnish and Serve:
For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs. Serve these bites warm and enjoy the compliments from your guests!
These Baked Cranberry Brie Bites are not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser at any event. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Cheeses for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Brie is recommended for its creaminess, you can substitute it with Camembert for a similar texture or use goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Just make sure the cheese melts well for the best results!
What Can I Do With Leftover Puff Pastry?
Leftover puff pastry can be rolled out again and refrigerated for a couple of days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing!
Can I Make These Bites in Advance?
You can prepare the bites ahead of time by assembling them without baking. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them directly from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Cranberry Brie Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, as this helps maintain their crispness.
