Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites
Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites are a tasty little treat perfect for any gathering. These bite-sized delights combine creamy brie cheese, sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, all wrapped in crisp,…
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Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites are a tasty little treat perfect for any gathering. These bite-sized delights combine creamy brie cheese, sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, all wrapped in crisp, flaky puff pastry that browns up beautifully in the oven.
I love making these when friends come over because they’re so easy to prepare but always impress. The way the warm, melty brie blends with the slightly tart cranberry is just the right balance of flavors. Plus, the puff pastry adds that delightful crunch that makes each bite feel special without a lot of fuss.
My favorite way to serve them is right out of the oven with a cup of tea or a glass of wine. They’re perfect finger food for holiday parties or casual get-togethers, and I always find that they disappear fast! If you’re looking for a simple yet charming appetizer, these cranberry brie bites are sure to be a hit.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the base of the bites, giving that flaky, buttery crunch. I like using frozen puff pastry sheets because they’re easy to find and quick to prepare. If you’re short on time, you can find pre-cut mini pastry shells as a shortcut.
Brie Cheese: Brie is creamy and mild, which pairs beautifully with tart cranberry. If you can’t find brie, camembert is a similar soft cheese that’ll work well here.
Cranberry Sauce: Store-bought cranberry sauce is fine, but homemade adds a fresh, tangy touch. You could swap in other fruit jams like apricot or fig for a different flavor twist.
Rosemary: This herb adds an earthy, piney note that complements the cheese and cranberry well. If you don’t have fresh rosemary, dried works but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do You Get Puff Pastry Perfectly Golden and Flaky?
To get the puff pastry crisp and golden, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C). Cold puff pastry won’t puff properly, so let it thaw fully but keep it cool as you work.
- Work quickly to handle the dough so it doesn’t get too warm.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg—that’s key for that shiny golden finish.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give each bite room to puff up nicely.
- Bake until they’re puffed and lightly browned, usually 12-15 minutes.
These steps help you get that perfect balance of flaky layers and a golden crust that makes each bite irresistible.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – provides a flat surface for even baking and easy cleanup.
- Parchment paper – keeps the bites from sticking and helps with cleanup.
- Pastry brush – perfect for applying that egg wash for a golden finish.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – makes cutting the puff pastry into clean squares easy.
- Mixing bowl – handy if you want to mix the rosemary into the brie or cranberry sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap brie for goat cheese for a tangier, creamier bite that pairs well with the cranberry.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts inside for crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.
- Use fig jam instead of cranberry sauce to give a sweeter, earthier flavor.
- Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over the cranberry sauce to add warmth and spice.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 6 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- ½ cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. You’ll have delicious puff pastry bites ready to serve in under 30 minutes—perfect for quick entertaining or a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Puff Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Cut it into 2-inch squares for perfect bite-sized pieces.
2. Assemble the Bites:
Place half of the puff pastry squares on your baking sheet. Add a small piece of brie on each, then sprinkle with some chopped fresh rosemary. Top each with another puff pastry square and gently press the edges to seal well.
3. Bake and Add Toppings:
Brush the tops of the puff pastry bites with the beaten egg for a lovely golden color. Bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Let them cool slightly, then spoon a teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of each. Garnish with a small sprig of fresh rosemary for a lovely finish. Serve warm or at room temperature for a charming appetizer everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry Without Thawing?
It’s best to fully thaw the puff pastry in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30-40 minutes before using. This helps it roll out easily and puff up properly during baking.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the bites and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking. Just add the cranberry sauce and rosemary garnish after baking and before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store baked puff pastry bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to keep them crisp.
What Can I Substitute for Brie Cheese?
If you can’t find brie, soft cheeses like camembert or cream cheese work well. Goat cheese is another tasty option, though it’s tangier and less creamy.
