Baked Cranberry Brie Bites — easy cranberry recipe for holiday appetizers
Baked Cranberry Brie Bites are one of my favorite easy appetizers to pull out when friends arrive or when I want a little festive comfort. I still remember the first time I made these for a small holiday gathering — the smell of warm, buttery puff pastry and melting brie filled the kitchen while someone hummed a holiday tune in the background. They disappeared in minutes, and I loved how such a simple combination felt both elegant and homey. These bites draw on classic seasonal flavors — tart cranberries and rich cheese — a pairing that has been enjoyed in various forms in North American holiday cooking for decades.
Who is this recipe for?
- This recipe is for busy hosts, beginner bakers, and anyone who loves easy, crowd-pleasing appetizers.
Core ingredients overview:
- Puff pastry, Brie cheese, and cranberry sauce come together to create flaky, melty, sweet-tart bites — simple to assemble and delightful to serve.
Tools & Ingredients
Tools (what you’ll need)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin (optional, if puff pastry needs smoothing)
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Spoon or small cookie scoop
- Small bowl (for egg wash or mixing)
- Pastry brush (optional, for egg wash)
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- Puff pastry — provides quick, flaky pastry with minimal work.
- Brie cheese — melts into a creamy, luxurious filling.
- Cranberry sauce — adds bright, sweet-tart contrast that brightens each bite.
- Egg (optional, for egg wash) — helps create a glossy, golden crust.
- Chopped pecans or chopped fresh herbs (optional garnish) — add texture and visual appeal.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases. Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the pastry into squares about 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm) on a side.
- Place a small piece of brie cheese (about 1 tablespoon) on each pastry square. If using a rind, you can leave it on or trim it slightly — either is fine.
- Add a spoonful of cranberry sauce (about 1 teaspoon) on top of the brie.
- Fold the pastry over to enclose the filling. You can fold corners toward the center or bring opposite edges together, then pinch to seal gently so the filling stays inside.
- Place the assembled bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a bit of space between each one.
- (Optional) Whisk an egg with a splash of water and brush the tops of the bites for a shiny, golden finish.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed and the brie is melted.
- Remove from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!
FAQ
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes. Assemble the bites and flash-freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: What can I use instead of puff pastry?
A: You can use store-bought crescent roll dough for a softer, cozier texture, or make small phyllo cups for a crispier result.
Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: Yes. You can assemble and refrigerate them (covered) for a few hours before baking. For longer prep, freeze assembled bites and bake on the day of your event.
Q: Are these suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes — if your brie and other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Check labels for animal-derived rennet if that’s a concern.
Tips & Tricks
- Keep ingredients cold: Keep the puff pastry and brie chilled until assembly to help the pastry puff up beautifully.
- Don’t overfill: Use modest amounts of brie and cranberry sauce so the pastry seals easily and won’t leak during baking.
- Trim the rind only if desired: Brie rind is edible, but if you prefer a smoother melt, remove a thin top layer before placing it on the pastry.
- Garnish after baking: Add chopped nuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs after baking to preserve their texture and color.
Conclusion
If you’d like more variations and inspiration, check out this Best Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe for a popular take, this Baked Cranberry Brie Bites – Kalefornia Kravings for a slightly different approach and tips, and this Cranberry Brie Bites – The Country Cook for more serving ideas.
Enjoy these warm bites with friends and family — they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or impromptu get-togethers. Always add
tag after Directions.