Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cranberry Brie appetizers are the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a dinner party, or just looking for a quick and elegant appetizer, these bite-sized delights are sure to impress. The warm, melty Brie pairs beautifully with the tart cranberry sauce, all wrapped in a crispy, flaky shell. Best of all, they require minimal ingredients and are easy to prepare, making them an ideal last-minute appetizer.
Ingredients
- Brie cheese
- Cranberry sauce
- Puff pastry or phyllo dough
- Honey
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Chopped nuts (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
- Prepare the Pastry – If using puff pastry, roll it out and cut it into small squares large enough to fit into mini muffin tins. If using phyllo dough, layer a few sheets together, brushing each layer with melted butter before cutting them into squares.
- Assemble the Appetizers – Place each pastry square into a mini muffin tin, gently pressing it down to create a cup shape.
- Add the Brie – Cut the Brie into small cubes and place one piece into each pastry cup.
- Spoon in Cranberry Sauce – Top the Brie with a small spoonful of cranberry sauce.
- Optional Toppings – Drizzle with a bit of honey and sprinkle with fresh rosemary or thyme for added flavor. You can also add chopped nuts for extra texture.
- Bake – Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Cool and Serve – Allow the appetizers to cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations
- Savory Twist – Add a slice of prosciutto or caramelized onions for a more savory profile.
- Nut-Free Option – Omit the nuts if serving to guests with allergies.
- Different Jams – Swap cranberry sauce for fig jam, apricot preserves, or raspberry jam for a different flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free pastry dough to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 12-15 appetizers
Storage/Reheating
- Storage – Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – To maintain crispiness, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid using a microwave as it may make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
To keep the pastry crisp, avoid overfilling with cranberry sauce and bake until golden brown.
Can I make these appetizers ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them in the muffin tin and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
What other cheeses can I use instead of Brie?
Camembert or a mild goat cheese can be good substitutes.
Can I use store-bought pastry shells?
Absolutely! Pre-made shells save time and work just as well.
Can I freeze these appetizers?
Yes, freeze unbaked and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What wine pairs well with these appetizers?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine complements them beautifully.
Do I need to remove the rind from the Brie?
No, the rind is edible and melts well, but you can remove it if you prefer.
How can I make these more festive?
Garnish with pomegranate seeds or a sprig of fresh rosemary for a festive touch.
Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
Yes! Homemade sauce adds extra freshness and flavor.
What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin?
You can bake them on a regular baking sheet; just shape the pastry into small cups by hand.
Conclusion
Cranberry Brie appetizers are a simple yet elegant addition to any gathering. Their balance of flavors and textures makes them a crowd-pleaser, and their easy preparation means you can whip them up in no time. Whether served at a holiday party or as a delicious snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit. Try them out and watch them disappear from the plate!
Print
Simple and Delicious Cranberry Brie Appetizers
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 appetizers 1x
Description
These Cranberry Brie appetizers are the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, wrapped in a crispy, flaky pastry. Ideal for holiday gatherings or last-minute entertaining, they are easy to make and require minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 sheet puff pastry or 6 sheets phyllo dough
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (if using phyllo dough)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pastry – Roll out puff pastry and cut into small squares. If using phyllo dough, layer sheets together, brushing each layer with melted butter, then cut into squares.
- Assemble the Appetizers – Place each pastry square into a mini muffin tin to form a cup shape.
- Add the Brie – Put a small Brie cube into each pastry cup.
- Spoon in Cranberry Sauce – Add a small spoonful of cranberry sauce on top of the Brie.
- Optional Toppings – Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with rosemary, thyme, or chopped nuts.
- Bake – Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve – Let cool slightly before serving warm
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to maintain crispness.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
- Variations: Try different jams, add prosciutto, or use gluten-free pastry.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American , holiday
Keywords: Cranberry Brie appetizers, holiday appetizers, easy party snacks, baked Brie bites, puff pastry appetizers
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