These 3-Ingredient Cranberry Brie Bites are the perfect holiday appetizer that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious. With creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and flaky puff pastry, these bites are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or need a quick and elegant appetizer, these cranberry brie bites are sure to impress!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz brie cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with cooking spray.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into 24 equal squares.
Step 2: Assemble the Cranberry Brie Bites
- Place each puff pastry square into the prepared mini muffin tin, gently pressing it into the cups.
- Place a cube of brie cheese into each puff pastry cup.
- Top each piece of brie with a teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake the cranberry brie bites in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the bites cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the cranberry brie bites warm or at room temperature.
- Enjoy these delightful, easy-to-make appetizers!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Puff Pastry: Make sure the puff pastry is thawed but still cold for easy handling. This will make it easier to cut and press into the muffin tin.
- Brie: You don’t need to remove the rind from the brie—it melts well and adds to the flavor.
- Cranberry Sauce: Use either homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce. If you like a bit more sweetness, add a touch of honey to the cranberry sauce before using.
Variations
- Jam Substitute: Substitute the cranberry sauce with raspberry jam, apricot preserves, or fig jam for a different flavor.
- Nut Topping: Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cranberry sauce for extra crunch.
- Herb Addition: Garnish with a small sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for added aroma and a festive touch.
- Honey Drizzle: Drizzle a bit of honey over the cranberry brie bites after baking for added sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make These Cranberry Brie Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just bake them as directed when you’re ready to serve.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cranberry brie bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze These?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cranberry brie bites. Assemble them in the muffin tin, then freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. What Can I Serve with Cranberry Brie Bites?
These bites are perfect on their own but also pair well with a charcuterie board, fresh fruit, or sparkling wine for a festive touch.
These 3-Ingredient Cranberry Brie Bites are an easy, elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a stunning, delicious treat that’s sure to impress your guests. The combination of creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry, and flaky puff pastry is simply irresistible. Try this recipe for your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time!