Baked Cranberry Brie Bites
Baked Cranberry Brie Bites are delightful appetizer morsels combining creamy melted brie, tangy-sweet cranberry sauce, and flaky puff pastry. Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers, these bite-sized treats blend rich, vibrant flavors and textures into an irresistible, easy-to-make finger food.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Contains gluten and dairy; vegan options available
Main Ingredients
- Puff Pastry: 1 sheet, thawed
- Brie Cheese: about 4 ounces, cut into small cubes
- Cranberry Sauce: 1/4 to 1/3 cup (store-bought or homemade)
Optional Toppings
- Walnuts: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Fresh Thyme: 1 teaspoon leaves
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s perfectly heated for even baking and a golden crust.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface, then cut it into small squares approximately 2 inches wide to form individual bases.
- Assemble the Bites: Gently press each puff pastry square into a mini muffin tin cup to create little pastry cups. Place a small cube of brie cheese at the bottom of each cup.
- Add Cranberry Sauce: Spoon about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of each brie cube, balancing the tangy sweetness with the creamy cheese.
- Optional Toppings: Sprinkle chopped walnuts and/or fresh thyme leaves on top if desired to add crunch and herbal notes.
- Bake Until Golden: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown and the brie is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Keep puff pastry chilled before cutting to prevent tearing.
- Do not overfill with brie or cranberry sauce to avoid soggy pastry.
- Use a mini muffin tin to maintain perfect bite shape and even baking.
- Brushing the pastry edges with a light egg wash before baking adds a beautiful golden shine.
- Serve warm from the oven for best texture and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Assembled, unbaked bites can be frozen for up to 3 months and baked directly from frozen with added baking time.
- Reheat leftovers gently in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness and melted cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Baked Cranberry Brie Bites, appetizer, holiday snack, puff pastry, brie cheese, cranberry sauce, party food