These irresistible cranberry Brie bites are a festive, fun-filled appetizer perfect for any holiday party and they’re so good, you’ll want to enjoy them year-round. With a blend of creamy Brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and the crunch of walnuts all wrapped in delicate puff pastry, these bites are sure to become a crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized treats are effortless to make, yet they look elegant and taste impressive. Their balance of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors will captivate your guests. Plus, they’re versatile enough for prepping ahead of time, making your hosting duties stress-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (8-ounce) round of Brie cheese
- Cooking spray
- 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
- ½ cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup finely chopped walnuts (or pecans, if preferred)
- Sea salt, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Brie and Muffin Tin
Remove the rind from the Brie and place it in the freezer for 20 minutes to make slicing easier. Meanwhile, spray a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry into a 10×14-inch rectangle. Cut it lengthwise into four even strips, then crosswise into six strips, making 24 squares. Press each square gently into the mini muffin cups.
3. Assemble the Bites
Take the chilled Brie from the freezer and cut it into 24 small cubes. Add a teaspoon of cranberry sauce to each puff pastry square, followed by a piece of Brie and a sprinkle of chopped walnuts. Finish with a pinch of sea salt on each bite.
4. Chill and Bake
Refrigerate the assembled bites for at least 30 minutes (or up to three days if covered). When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
5. Serve
Enjoy these bites warm, as they melt in your mouth with a delightful mix of flavors.
Make-Ahead Tips
These cranberry Brie bites can be assembled up to three days in advance. Store them covered in the fridge and bake just before serving for a warm, freshly made taste.
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the oven or microwave for a few seconds.
Can You Freeze Cranberry Brie Bites?
Yes! Flash-freeze the unbaked bites on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and wrap them in foil for up to two months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
These cranberry Brie bites are a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something special. Perfect for parties or as an indulgent snack, they’re sure to be requested over and over again.