Puff Pastry Brie Bites with Cranberry
Highlighted under: Festive Gathering Dishes
Delight in the combination of flaky puff pastry, creamy Brie cheese, and tangy cranberry sauce in these irresistible bites.
Puff Pastry Brie Bites with Cranberry are a delightful hors d'oeuvre that combines rich flavors with a festive touch. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, they are sure to impress your guests.
Why You'll Love These Puff Pastry Brie Bites
- Flaky pastry that envelops creamy Brie for a heavenly bite
- Sweet and tart cranberry sauce adds a festive twist
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings
Perfect for Any Occasion
Puff Pastry Brie Bites with Cranberry are truly versatile. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, a casual get-together, or simply indulging in a cozy night in, these bites are sure to impress. Their elegant appearance and delightful flavors make them a fitting choice for any event, from upscale parties to relaxed family dinners.
These bites are also a hit at potlucks and picnics, as they can be served warm or at room temperature. Their small, manageable size makes them easy to enjoy while mingling, and the combination of creamy Brie and sweet-tart cranberry sauce is a flavor profile that appeals to a variety of palates.
Customization Options
While the classic combination of Brie and cranberry is delicious, feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can swap out the cranberry sauce for other fruit preserves like fig, apricot, or even a spicy jalapeño jelly for a kick. Additionally, consider adding nuts, such as chopped walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor.
If you're a fan of herbs, try mixing in some fresh thyme or basil with the cheese to elevate the taste. The beauty of these bites is their adaptability; you can tailor them to suit your personal preferences or the tastes of your guests.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers, you can store these Puff Pastry Brie Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their flaky texture, it's best to reheat them in an oven rather than using a microwave. Simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
If you want to prepare these bites in advance, you can assemble them and freeze before baking. Just place the unbaked bites on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Ingredients
For Puff Pastry Brie Bites
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 round Brie cheese (about 8 oz)
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh rosemary, for garnish (optional)
Make sure to keep your puff pastry cold before baking for the best texture.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into squares, approximately 3x3 inches.
Assemble the Bites
Place a small piece of Brie in the center of each pastry square, top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce, then fold the corners of the pastry over the filling, pinching to seal.
Brush with Egg Wash
Brush the tops of the sealed pastry bites with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired, and serve warm.
Enjoy these delightful bites fresh out of the oven!
Key Ingredients
The key to a successful Puff Pastry Brie Bite lies in the quality of ingredients used. Opt for a good quality Brie cheese that melts beautifully and pairs well with the cranberry sauce. Fresh, homemade cranberry sauce can elevate the flavor profile even further compared to store-bought versions, giving a personal touch to your bites.
Puff pastry is another crucial component; ensure that it's properly thawed before using to achieve that perfect flaky texture. When selecting your puff pastry, look for a brand that uses butter for the best flavor and flakiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful bites with a variety of accompaniments to create a stunning appetizer spread. Pair them with a selection of cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruits for a charcuterie board that will impress your guests. A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the Brie.
For a beverage pairing, consider offering sparkling wine or cider, which will balance the richness of the bites with their refreshing effervescence. Alternatively, a warm mulled wine can enhance the festive spirit during the colder months.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cheese instead of Brie?
Yes! You can substitute Brie with Camembert or even goat cheese for a different flavor.
→ Can I prepare these bites in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the bites a few hours ahead and refrigerate them before baking.
→ What can I serve these bites with?
These bites pair wonderfully with a light salad or can be served as an appetizer at parties.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Puff Pastry Brie Bites with Cranberry
Delight in the combination of flaky puff pastry, creamy Brie cheese, and tangy cranberry sauce in these irresistible bites.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Festive Gathering Dishes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bites
What You'll Need
For Puff Pastry Brie Bites
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 round Brie cheese (about 8 oz)
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh rosemary, for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into squares, approximately 3x3 inches.
Place a small piece of Brie in the center of each pastry square, top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce, then fold the corners of the pastry over the filling, pinching to seal.
Brush the tops of the sealed pastry bites with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired, and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 6g