Cranberry Brie Bites

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If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s festive, ridiculously easy, and guaranteed to be devoured in minutes, these Cranberry Brie Bites are exactly what you need. Every year as the holidays roll around, I find myself gravitating toward recipes that are as beautiful as they are delicious—and this one hits both marks. With gooey brie, tart cranberry sauce, and golden flaky pastry, each bite feels like a warm hug during a cold season.

The best part? They look like something you’d find at a gourmet party, yet require almost no effort to put together. Whether I’m hosting a full dinner party or just having a couple of friends over for wine, these little bites are always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they make me look like I spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality, they take less than 30 minutes start to finish.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe

These bites are the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and savory. The buttery puff pastry creates a crisp base, while the melty brie gives you that rich, indulgent center. Topped with a spoonful of tangy cranberry sauce and a crunchy pecan (or walnut!), they make for a flavor-packed morsel that’s holiday-ready but perfect any time of year. Bonus: they reheat surprisingly well, making them excellent make-ahead appetizers.

What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

I recommend using store-bought frozen puff pastry for ease and speed. Brands like Pepperidge Farm or Trader Joe’s are reliable and bake up beautifully golden. Just be sure to thaw it properly in the fridge before using—you want it pliable but still cold, so it puffs nicely without becoming greasy.

Options for Substitutions

• Cheese: If brie isn’t your thing, try camembert or even a slice of creamy goat cheese for a tangier twist.
• Cranberry Sauce: Homemade is great, but canned whole berry sauce works wonderfully. You could also swap it with fig jam or raspberry preserves.
• Nuts: Pecans are classic, but walnuts or even sliced almonds can add a different texture and taste.
• Herbs: A sprig of rosemary adds a fresh and aromatic touch, but thyme works well too.

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Ingredients for This Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe

• Puff Pastry Sheets: These are the buttery, flaky base for the bites. They puff up golden and crisp, creating a light shell to hold the creamy filling.
• Brie Cheese: The rich and melty heart of the recipe. Its mild, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries.
• Cranberry Sauce: Provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the creamy brie. You can use homemade or store-bought whole berry sauce.
• Pecans: Add crunch and a warm, nutty flavor that complements the softness of the cheese and pastry.
• Fresh Rosemary (Optional): For garnish and a pop of herbaceous aroma that elevates the bite.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease a mini muffin pan or line it with parchment squares to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cut the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry just a bit to smooth the seams. Then, cut it into 24 equal squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. These will form the base of your bites.

Step 3: Shape the Bites

Gently press each puff pastry square into the wells of your mini muffin tin. Make sure to press down enough so they form a cup shape but don’t tear the dough.

Step 4: Add the Brie

Cut the brie into small cubes, about 3/4-inch in size, and place one cube into each puff pastry cup. No need to remove the rind—it melts beautifully and adds flavor.

Step 5: Spoon on Cranberry Sauce

Top each brie cube with about 1/2 teaspoon of cranberry sauce. A little goes a long way, as it spreads when heated.

Step 6: Add Pecans

Place a pecan half (or a few chopped pieces) on top of the cranberry. This gives a great contrast in texture and flavor.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the bites for 15–18 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Let the bites cool for 5 minutes in the pan before transferring them to a serving platter. Garnish with a small sprig of rosemary for a festive look if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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How Long to Prepare the Cranberry Brie Bites

Making these festive bites is a breeze from start to finish. The entire process takes less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute guests or quick holiday party prep.

Prep Time: You’ll need about 10–15 minutes to prepare all components. That includes rolling and cutting the puff pastry, cubing the brie, and assembling each bite.

Bake Time: These bake in just 15–18 minutes, during which the puff pastry puffs up and the brie turns melty and golden.

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Tips for Perfect Cranberry Brie Bites

• Make sure your puff pastry is still cold when you work with it. If it gets too warm, it won’t puff up as nicely.
• Cut the brie into uniform cubes for even melting and appearance.
• Use whole berry cranberry sauce for the best texture and visual appeal.
• Don’t overfill the pastry cups—brie expands when melted.
• Let them rest a few minutes after baking to firm up slightly before serving.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the non-stick prep: Always grease or line the muffin tin to avoid pastry sticking.
• Using too much cranberry sauce: Overflowing sauce can bubble over and burn.
• Overbaking: Watch closely in the last few minutes; puff pastry can go from golden to dark fast.
• Not pressing the pastry fully into the cups: This can lead to uneven bites or collapsed sides.
• Cutting brie too large: Large pieces may not melt evenly and could spill over.

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What to Serve With Cranberry Brie Bites?

1. Sparkling Wine or Champagne

The effervescence pairs wonderfully with the rich cheese and sweet-tart cranberry.

2. Mixed Greens Salad

A fresh salad with a balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the bites.

3. Butternut Squash Soup

For a cozy autumn or winter gathering, this creamy soup complements the bites perfectly.

4. Charcuterie Board

Add these to a board with cured meats, fruits, and nuts for a stunning appetizer spread.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

For a more filling spread, serve these alongside some crispy roasted veggies.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place the bites on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. This brings back the crispiness of the pastry.

Freezing: Assemble the bites but don’t bake them. Flash freeze on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, add 3–5 extra minutes to the baking time.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Bite)

• Calories: 110
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 95mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cranberry sauce works best?

Whole berry cranberry sauce (homemade or canned) is ideal. It has the right texture and a nice tangy-sweet balance.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the bites ahead and refrigerate them unbaked. Pop them in the oven just before serving.

What can I use instead of pecans?

Walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios are tasty alternatives. You can also skip the nuts for a nut-free version.

Do I need to remove the brie rind?

Not at all. The rind is edible and melts just like the rest of the cheese. It adds a touch of earthy flavor.

Can I make this in a regular muffin tin?

Yes, but they’ll be larger. Cut larger pastry squares and add more filling. Bake an extra 3–5 minutes if needed.

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Conclusion

Cranberry Brie Bites are one of those magical recipes that check all the boxes: fast, beautiful, festive, and undeniably delicious. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, entertaining friends, or simply want an impressive snack, these little bites are always a win. With their flaky base, gooey center, and tangy topping, it’s no wonder they disappear in minutes. Give them a try—and don’t be surprised if they become a yearly tradition.

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