These elegant little bites combine buttery puff pastry, creamy brie, and tangy cranberry sauce for the perfect holiday appetizer. Best of all? They need just 3 ingredients and come together in minutes!
THE PERFECT PARTY APPETIZER
Looking for an appetizer that looks fancy but takes minimal effort? These cranberry brie bites are your answer! They’re incredibly simple to prepare but look like they came from a high-end catering service. The combination of flaky pastry, melty cheese, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce creates an irresistible bite that guests always rave about.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I make these ahead of time?
While best served warm from the oven, you can assemble these a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add a minute or two to the baking time if cooking from cold.
What type of brie works best?
Any good quality brie will work! Just make sure it’s cold when you cut it for easier handling. Remove the rind if you prefer, though it’s perfectly edible.
Can I use different toppings?
Absolutely! Try fig jam, raspberry preserves, or even honey with a sprinkle of nuts. The possibilities are endless!
TIPS FOR SUCCESS:
- Thaw puff pastry completely but keep it cold
- Cut brie when it’s cold for cleaner cuts
- Don’t overfill the pastries
- Seal edges well to prevent leaking
- Watch closely while baking – they brown quickly
- Let cool slightly before serving
INGREDIENTS NEEDED: (FULL RECIPE BELOW)
- Frozen puff pastry sheets
- Brie cheese wheel
- Cranberry sauce
- Optional garnishes
Cranberry Brie Bites
Perfect for holiday entertaining, these elegant appetizers need just 3 ingredients but taste like they took hours to make!
Course: Appetizer Cuisine: French-Inspired Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 18 minutes Total Time: 33 minutes Servings: 24 bites
INGREDIENTS
Basic Recipe:
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed but cold
- 8 ounces brie cheese, cold and cut into 24 cubes
- 3/4 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- Flour for dusting work surface
Optional Additions:
- Fresh thyme leaves
- Chopped pecans
- Honey for drizzling
- Flaky sea salt
- Black pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Lightly flour your work surface. Gently unfold puff pastry sheets.
- Cut each sheet into 12 equal squares (about 2×2 inches each).
- Place pastry squares on prepared baking sheets.
- Position a cube of brie in the center of each square.
- Top each with about 1 teaspoon cranberry sauce.
- Bring all four corners of pastry up to center, pinching edges to seal.
- Refrigerate assembled bites for 10 minutes if pastry feels warm.
- Bake 15-18 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
RECIPE NOTES
- Make Ahead: Assemble up to 4 hours ahead, refrigerate unbaked
- Storage: Best served fresh, but can be reheated briefly
- Variations: Try different jams or preserves
- Temperature Tip: Keep ingredients cold for easiest handling
- Serving: Delicious warm or room temperature
NUTRITION Calories: 95 Protein: 3g Carbohydrates: 8g Fat: 6g Fiber: 0.5g Sodium: 115mg
*Nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
WINE PAIRING SUGGESTION Pairs beautifully with prosecco, champagne, or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
