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If you’re looking to make a memorable impression at your next holiday gathering, these Cranberry Brie Bites with Puff Pastry are your solution. This appetizer pairs the creamy richness of Brie with the tartness of cranberry sauce, all wrapped up in a flaky puff pastry. Simple to whip up, they’ll be a hit without keeping you tied to the kitchen.
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- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 24 bites
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal effort.
- Perfect for entertaining with a stunning presentation.
- Flavorful combination of creamy, sweet, and nutty.
- Make-ahead friendly for stress-free hosting.
Ingredients
- 1 8 ounce round Brie cheese: Provides a creamy, rich base. Remove rind for better texture.
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed in the refrigerator): Ensures a flaky, buttery nest. Be sure to thaw for easy handling.
- Flour (for dusting work surface): Prevents the pastry from sticking when rolling out.
- 3/4 cup cranberry sauce: Adds a sweet-tart contrast. Homemade or store-bought works fine.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans: Offers a crunchy texture. Walnuts can be used as a substitute.
- Sprigs of rosemary for garnish: Adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
- Sea salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Brie
Start by trimming the rind off the Brie. This step ensures a smoother bite without the chewy texture. Freeze the Brie cheese for 20 minutes on a parchment-lined plate to firm it up, making it easier to slice into clean pieces later.
Step 2: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 375℉. While it heats, generously grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cooking spray. This ensures the bites don’t stick and can be removed easily once baked.
Step 3: Roll Out and Cut Pastry
On a floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a 10×14-inch rectangle. This size will allow you to cut it into 24 even squares. Press each square gently into the muffin cups and prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Bites
Remove the Brie from the freezer and cut it into 24 roughly 3/4-inch pieces. Add a teaspoon of cranberry sauce to each pastry-lined cup, follow with a piece of Brie, and top with a teaspoon of pecans. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired for flavor enhancement.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the assembled bites in your preheated oven until they achieve a golden brown color, about 18-20 minutes. This time frame allows the pastry to bake through and the cheese to melt. Let them cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a serving platter.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and even assemble the bites a few hours before baking. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake and serve fresh.
What if I don’t have pecans?
If pecans aren’t available, walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes, offering a similar nutty crunch.
How should I serve these bites?
These bites are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. This way, the flavors are at their peak, and the texture is most enjoyable.
