Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

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I have a soft spot for appetizers that strike the perfect balance between elegance and ease, and these Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are exactly that. The moment I served them at a holiday gathering, they vanished within minutes. The crisp, buttery puff pastry acts as a delicious base for the creamy, melty brie, while the tart cranberry sauce adds a festive punch. A sprig of rosemary on top not only gives it a pop of color but also a subtle herbal aroma that makes these tartlets irresistible.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together with minimal ingredients but maximum impact. Whether you’re planning a holiday party or need a show-stopping appetizer for a potluck, these tartlets are always a crowd-pleaser. I keep puff pastry and a small wheel of brie on hand during the season just in case an impromptu celebration pops up.

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Why You’ll Love This Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets Recipe

These tartlets offer a stunning contrast of textures and flavors. The flaky puff pastry paired with the molten brie and tangy cranberry topping creates a bite that’s sweet, savory, creamy, and crisp all at once. Plus, they look so festive, especially with a touch of fresh rosemary. They’re also incredibly easy to assemble, requiring less than 30 minutes from start to finish if your puff pastry is already thawed.

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What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

Store-bought puff pastry is absolutely perfect for this recipe. Look for an all-butter variety if you can—it makes a noticeable difference in both flavor and texture. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best handling. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade puff pastry is a luxurious upgrade, but it’s not essential.

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Options for Substitutions

While brie is a dream in this tartlet, you can easily swap it for camembert or even goat cheese for a tangier profile. If cranberries aren’t your thing, try a dollop of fig jam, apricot preserves, or caramelized onions for an equally delicious variation. And for a hint of crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts just before serving. The rosemary sprig can be replaced with fresh thyme or omitted altogether for a simpler presentation.

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Ingredients for Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

• Puff Pastry Sheets – These serve as the base and provide that golden, flaky, and buttery crunch we love in tartlets.
• Brie Cheese – Its rich, creamy texture and mild flavor pair beautifully with the tart cranberry sauce.
• Cranberry Sauce – Use homemade or high-quality store-bought. The tartness adds a vibrant contrast to the brie.
• Fresh Rosemary Sprigs – Optional but highly recommended for garnish. It adds aroma and a festive touch.
• Egg (for egg wash) – Brushed onto the pastry edges to create a beautiful golden finish.

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Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your tartlets bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

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Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll out your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 3-inch squares or use a round cutter, depending on your preferred tartlet shape. Gently press each piece into the muffin tin to form little cups.

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Step 3: Add the Brie

Cut the brie into 1-inch cubes and place one piece into each puff pastry shell. No need to remove the rind—it melts nicely and adds flavor.

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Step 4: Spoon the Cranberry Sauce

Top each brie-filled pastry with about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce. Don’t overfill—just enough to sit on top and melt slightly as it bakes.

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Step 5: Egg Wash the Edges

Beat one egg and lightly brush the exposed edges of the puff pastry. This helps them turn golden and glossy as they bake.

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Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the brie is melted and bubbling.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool for 2–3 minutes in the pan. Carefully lift them out and place on a serving platter. Garnish with a small sprig of fresh rosemary for a festive look.

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How Long to Prepare the Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Prep Time: Preparing these tartlets is quick and stress-free. Thawing the puff pastry overnight is the only step that requires planning ahead. Once it’s ready, assembling everything takes about 15 minutes, including cutting the pastry, cubing the brie, and spooning the cranberry sauce.

Cooking Time: The baking process takes around 15–18 minutes, just enough to melt the brie and puff the pastry to a golden crisp. In total, you’re looking at under 35 minutes from start to finish, which makes these tartlets perfect for last-minute entertaining.

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Tips for Perfect Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

• Always use cold puff pastry when assembling. If it becomes too soft, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
• Don’t overload with filling—brie and cranberry sauce can bubble over during baking.
• For an ultra-flaky result, place the muffin tin on a preheated baking sheet in the oven.
• Let the tartlets cool for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the cheese to slightly set.
• Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean pastry cuts.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using warm puff pastry: This can lead to a soggy, greasy tartlet.
• Overbaking: Brie can become too runny and leak out completely. Keep a close eye after 15 minutes.
• Forgetting the egg wash: Skipping this results in a dull-looking crust.
• Overfilling: Too much brie or cranberry sauce may spill over and stick to the tin.
• Not greasing the tin: If you’re not using parchment, a light grease is a must to avoid sticking.

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What to Serve With Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets?

1. Sparkling Wine or Prosecco

The light bubbles complement the richness of the cheese beautifully.

2. Fresh Arugula Salad

A peppery, lemony salad balances the sweet-savory combo perfectly.

3. Roasted Nuts

Add a crunchy, salty contrast with rosemary almonds or spiced pecans.

4. Charcuterie Board

Pair them with cured meats and fruits for a beautiful appetizer spread.

5. Butternut Squash Soup

A warm, comforting bowl of soup makes a cozy pairing with the tartlets.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Let leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to regain crispiness.

Freezing: These tartlets can be frozen after baking. Once cooled, arrange them in a single layer and freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven for 10–12 minutes.

Make Ahead Tip: You can assemble the tartlets (without baking) a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. Bake them just before serving for the best texture.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per tartlet (approximate):

• Calories: 160
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 180mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to keep the puff pastry crisp?

Bake on the lower rack of your oven and avoid overcrowding the filling. Let tartlets rest a few minutes before serving.

Can I use cranberry jelly instead of sauce?

Yes, but keep in mind that cranberry jelly is sweeter and has a smoother texture. It works well but gives a slightly different mouthfeel.

Do I need to remove the brie rind?

Not at all! The rind is edible and melts well. It adds subtle earthiness and texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free puff pastry, which is available in many specialty stores.

Can I serve these cold?

You can, but they are best served warm when the cheese is soft and the pastry crisp. If serving cold, allow them to come to room temperature for best flavor.

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Conclusion

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are one of those rare appetizers that look fancy, taste incredible, and take almost no effort. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, planning a wine night, or simply want to impress your guests, this recipe will deliver every single time. The creamy brie, tart cranberries, and buttery puff pastry create the perfect bite—elegant, flavorful, and entirely irresistible.

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