Mini Cranberry Brie Bites
Highlighted under: Family Baking Recipes
Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making them an ideal appetizer for any gathering.
These Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful combination of creamy brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and flaky pastry, making them a crowd-pleaser at any party. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these bites offer a burst of flavor in every bite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich cranberry flavor perfectly complements the creamy brie
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute gatherings
- Elegant presentation that will impress your guests
Perfect for Any Occasion
Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are not just appetizers; they are a versatile addition to any gathering. Whether you're hosting a holiday party, a bridal shower, or a casual get-together with friends, these bites will steal the show. Their unique combination of flavors appeals to a wide range of taste preferences, making them a crowd-pleaser.
The festive colors of cranberry sauce and the golden hue of the puff pastry create an inviting presentation that sets the tone for celebration. As guests arrive, the delightful aroma wafting from the oven will undoubtedly pique their interest, making these bites a must-have for your next event.
An Easy, Elegant Appetizer
One of the best aspects of Mini Cranberry Brie Bites is their simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a sophisticated hors d'oeuvre that looks and tastes like it took all day to prepare. The flaky puff pastry serves as the perfect vessel for the creamy brie and tangy cranberry sauce, ensuring each bite is a delightful experience.
Moreover, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable. You can experiment with different types of cheese or add nuts, herbs, or spices to customize the filling. This flexibility means you can cater to different dietary preferences or simply put your own spin on a classic dish.
Make-Ahead Convenience
For those who love to plan ahead, Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are an ideal choice. You can assemble the bites up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This not only saves time on the day of your event but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
If you're short on time, you can also freeze the assembled bites. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen. This makes them a convenient option for impromptu gatherings, ensuring you always have a delectable appetizer on hand.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Bites
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 8 ounces of brie cheese, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares (about 3x3 inches).
Fill the Pastry
Place a piece of brie cheese in the center of each pastry square, followed by a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
Seal and Brush
Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to create a pocket. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
Bake
Place the filled pastry pockets on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh rosemary if desired. Serve warm.
Storage Tips
To maintain the freshness of your Mini Cranberry Brie Bites, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days, although they are best enjoyed fresh. Reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to restore their crispy texture before serving.
If you want to prepare them in advance, consider freezing the unbaked bites. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly golden bites.
Serving Suggestions
These Mini Cranberry Brie Bites pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving them alongside a selection of crackers, fresh fruit, or a vibrant salad. For beverages, a crisp white wine or a sparkling cider enhances the sweet and savory flavors of the bites.
You can also elevate your presentation by arranging the bites on a decorative platter, garnished with fresh herbs or edible flowers. Providing a small bowl of additional cranberry sauce for dipping can also add an extra layer of flavor that your guests will appreciate.
Nutritional Information
While Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful treat, they are best enjoyed in moderation. The combination of puff pastry and cheese makes them rich, so it's wise to consider portion sizes when serving. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making them a well-rounded appetizer option.
If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using phyllo dough instead of puff pastry, which can reduce calories and fat. Additionally, you can experiment with lower-fat cheese options or incorporate more vegetables into your filling to create a healthier twist on this classic recipe.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bites and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
→ What can I substitute for brie cheese?
You can use camembert or any soft cheese of your choice.
→ Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry sauce works perfectly for this recipe.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Mini Cranberry Brie Bites
Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making them an ideal appetizer for any gathering.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Family Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 bites
What You'll Need
For the Bites
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 8 ounces of brie cheese, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares (about 3x3 inches).
Place a piece of brie cheese in the center of each pastry square, followed by a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to create a pocket. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
Place the filled pastry pockets on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh rosemary if desired. Serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g