Pin it A festive and effortless appetizer featuring creamy Brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and crisp puff pastry—perfect for holiday gatherings or any elegant occasion.
This recipe has become my go-to holiday starter as it impresses guests yet requires minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Dairy: 200 g (7 oz) Brie cheese, cut into 24 small cubes
- Pastry: 1 sheet (about 250 g) ready-rolled puff pastry, thawed if frozen
- Condiments: 120 g (1/2 cup) cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Garnish (optional): 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme
- Garnish (optional): 24 pecan halves or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
- Step 2:
- Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 24 equal squares.
- Step 3:
- Gently press each pastry square into the wells of the mini muffin tin to form small cups.
- Step 4:
- Place a cube of Brie into each pastry cup.
- Step 5:
- Top each with 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
- Step 6:
- Optionally, sprinkle with chopped herbs or add a pecan half on top for extra flavor and crunch.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Step 8:
- Cool for 5 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.
Pin it This appetizer always steals the show at family gatherings and sparks requests for the recipe.
Preparation Tips
Make sure the puff pastry is well chilled before baking to ensure crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm alongside a light salad or sparkling wine for a festive touch.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.
Pin it A perfect blend of savory and sweet, these bites add elegance to any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of Brie?
Yes, Camembert or goat cheese work well as alternatives, offering slightly different but complementary flavors.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of these bites?
Fresh rosemary or thyme complements the creamy cheese and tart cranberry sauce beautifully.
- → Is it necessary to add nuts as a garnish?
Adding pecan halves or walnuts is optional; they contribute a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor but can be omitted for nut-free needs.
- → How should the puff pastry be prepared before baking?
Thaw the ready-rolled puff pastry if frozen, then cut into squares and gently press into mini muffin tins to form cups.
- → Can these bites be served warm or cold?
They can be enjoyed warm shortly after baking or at room temperature, maintaining their delicate texture and flavors.
- → Are there any simple ways to add extra flavor?
Try adding a pinch of black pepper or orange zest to the cranberry sauce for a citrusy or spicy twist.