Mini Cranberry Brie Bites
Highlighted under: Holiday & Festive Meals
Delightful bite-sized treats filled with creamy brie and topped with tart cranberry sauce, perfect for any gathering.
These Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are the perfect appetizer for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers. The combination of creamy brie and sweet cranberry sauce creates a flavor explosion that your guests will love!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible combination of creamy cheese and tart cranberries
- Quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for unexpected guests
- Elegant presentation that impresses without the fuss
Perfect for Any Occasion
Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, suitable for any gathering from casual get-togethers to elegant dinner parties. Their delightful combination of flavors appeals to a wide range of palates, making them a versatile addition to your appetizer lineup. Whether you're hosting a holiday feast, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these bites will elevate your menu and impress your guests.
One of the best things about these bites is their adaptability. You can easily customize the cranberry sauce to suit your taste or the season. Consider adding some orange zest or a hint of cinnamon for a festive twist. With a few simple adjustments, you can create a unique version that reflects your personal style and flavor preferences.
Easy to Make
The beauty of Mini Cranberry Brie Bites lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time. Thawing a sheet of puff pastry is the most time-consuming part of the process, and once that's done, you'll be amazed at how quickly you can assemble and bake these little treats.
Perfect for unexpected guests, these bites can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This makes them an ideal choice for busy hosts who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Just pop them in the oven when it's time to serve, and you'll have warm, freshly baked appetizers in minutes.
Presentation That Impresses
These Mini Cranberry Brie Bites not only taste fantastic but also look stunning. The golden, flaky pastry combined with the vibrant red cranberry sauce creates an eye-catching appetizer that will draw your guests in. Adding a sprig of fresh rosemary as a garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a lovely aromatic touch that complements the flavors beautifully.
When served on a beautiful platter, these bites become a centerpiece of any appetizer spread. Their bite-sized nature allows guests to enjoy them easily while mingling, making them a practical choice for parties. The elegant presentation combined with the delightful taste makes them a favorite for any host looking to impress their guests.
Ingredients
For the Bites
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 wheel of brie cheese, cut into 24 small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a delicious appetizer that is sure to please!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 24 squares.
Assemble the Bites
Place a piece of brie in the center of each square, top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce, and fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to create a pocket.
Apply Egg Wash
Brush the tops of the bites with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.
Bake
Arrange the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve
Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired and serve warm.
Enjoy these delicious bites fresh out of the oven!
Storage Tips
If you have any leftover Mini Cranberry Brie Bites, you'll want to store them properly to maintain their flaky texture. Allow the bites to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled but unbaked bites. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time, and you'll have fresh, warm bites ready in no time.
Pairing Suggestions
To enhance your Mini Cranberry Brie Bites experience, consider pairing them with a selection of beverages. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling wine, complements the rich creaminess of the brie and the tartness of the cranberry sauce beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling apple cider can be a refreshing choice that mirrors the flavors of the bites.
For a gourmet touch, serve these bites alongside a charcuterie board filled with cured meats, assorted cheeses, and fresh fruits. This combination not only provides a variety of flavors and textures but also creates an inviting atmosphere for your guests to enjoy. With the right pairings, your Mini Cranberry Brie Bites will shine even brighter.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the bites a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge before baking.
→ What other toppings can I use?
Feel free to experiment with different toppings like fig jam or caramelized onions.
→ Can I use cheese other than brie?
Absolutely! Camembert or goat cheese also work well.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Mini Cranberry Brie Bites
Delightful bite-sized treats filled with creamy brie and topped with tart cranberry sauce, perfect for any gathering.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Holiday & Festive Meals
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 bites
What You'll Need
For the Bites
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 wheel of brie cheese, cut into 24 small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 24 squares.
Place a piece of brie in the center of each square, top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce, and fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to create a pocket.
Brush the tops of the bites with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.
Arrange the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 5g