Cranberry Brie Bites are a delicious and elegant appetizer that combines creamy brie cheese with sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. These bites are perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort!

Ingredients List

For the Bites:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
• 8 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes or wedges
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Fresh rosemary or thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Timing

Preparing Cranberry Brie Bites takes about 15 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 35 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth it out. Cut the pastry into squares (about 2×2 inches) or circles, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Assemble the Bites

1. Place Pastry on Baking Sheet: Arrange the pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
2. Add Brie and Cranberry: Place a small cube or wedge of brie in the center of each pastry square. Top with about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
3. Season: Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top if desired.

Step 4: Fold and Brush

1. Fold the Pastry: If using squares, you can fold the corners toward the center to create a pocket. If using circles, simply leave them open-faced.
2. Make Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
3. Brush with Egg Wash: Gently brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash for a golden finish.

Step 5: Bake the Bites

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
2. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: If using, sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme leaves on top for added flavor and presentation.
2. Serve Warm: Enjoy the cranberry brie bites warm as a delightful appetizer!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Cranberry Brie Bites (per bite, assuming 12 bites):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	120
Protein	3g
Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	9g
Fiber	0g

Tips for Customization

• Use Different Jams: Swap cranberry sauce for other fruit preserves like raspberry, fig, or apricot for a different flavor.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for extra crunch.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Cranberry Brie Bites pair well with:

• A glass of sparkling wine or champagne for a festive touch.
• A cheese platter with assorted cheeses and crackers for a complete appetizer spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overfilling the Pastry: Be careful not to add too much filling, as it can cause the pastry to burst during baking.
2. Not Thawing Puff Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling it out to avoid cracking.
3. Skipping the Egg Wash: The egg wash gives the pastry a beautiful golden color, so don’t skip this step!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Cranberry Brie Bites are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispness.

Conclusion

In just about 35 minutes, you can create Cranberry Brie Bites, a deliciously elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. With the perfect balance of creamy brie and sweet cranberry, these bites are a must-try for any gathering!

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the bites ahead of time and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving for the best results.

Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?

Yes! Phyllo dough can be used, but the texture will be different. You may need to adjust the baking time.

What if I don’t have brie cheese?

You can substitute with camembert or another soft cheese, but brie is recommended for the best flavor.

Can I freeze the assembled bites?

Yes! You can freeze them before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.