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Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites are elegant, festive appetizers made by filling flaky puff pastry with creamy brie and tart cranberries. Baked until golden and bubbling, they offer a delightful combination of crispy crust, melty cheese, and juicy berries, perfect for holiday gatherings. The bites are simple to prepare and visually appealing, with a warm, inviting aroma.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Holiday
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 1 sheet package puff pastry thawed if frozen
  • 8 oz soft brie cheese cut into small pieces
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce preferably homemade or store-bought
  • 1/4 cup fresh cranberries optional, for added tartness and visual appeal
  • 1 teaspoon honey for drizzling, optional
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or dried thyme, optional
  • 1 egg egg beaten, for egg wash

Equipment

  • Mini muffin tin
  • Pastry cutter or knife
  • Baking sheet
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease the mini muffin tin to ensure easy removal of the bites later.
  2. Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a pastry cutter or knife, cut the pastry into 12 small squares, about 2 inches each.
  3. Press each pastry square into the cups of the prepared mini muffin tin, gently shaping them to form little shells with a slight overhang if desired.
  4. Place a small piece of brie cheese into the center of each pastry shell, pressing gently to settle it into place.
  5. Top each with about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce, spreading it slightly over the cheese, and add a few fresh cranberries on top for extra tartness and visual appeal.
  6. Brush the exposed edges of the pastry with beaten egg to give a shiny, golden finish once baked.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of fresh or dried thyme over each bite for an aromatic herbal touch.
  8. Bake the bites in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and bubbling with melted cheese.
  9. Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack. Let them rest for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese and cranberries to set slightly.
  10. If desired, drizzle with honey for extra sweetness or garnish with additional thyme leaves. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cranberries before topping. These bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 5-7 minutes to regain crispness.