Mini Cranberry Brie Bites
Highlighted under: Holiday & Occasion Recipes
These Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful appetizer. The creamy brie combined with sweet cranberry sauce creates a delicious flavor explosion in every bite.
These delicious Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are a perfect blend of flavors that will impress your guests. The creamy brie cheese paired with the tartness of cranberry creates a delightful contrast, making these bites a must-have for any festive occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy brie that complements the tart cranberry sauce
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute gatherings
- Versatile appetizer that can be customized with different toppings
Perfect for Any Occasion
Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are an ideal choice for a variety of events, including holiday parties, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and enjoy, allowing guests to indulge without feeling too full. Plus, they add a touch of elegance to your appetizer spread, making them a visually appealing option that will impress your friends and family.
These bites not only taste fantastic but also look beautiful on any serving platter. The vibrant red of the cranberry sauce against the golden-brown puff pastry creates an eye-catching contrast that draws guests in. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or just want to elevate your snack game, these Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are sure to be a hit.
Easy Preparation and Customization
One of the best aspects of making Mini Cranberry Brie Bites is how simple the preparation process is. With just a few ingredients and minimal steps, you can whip up a delicious appetizer in no time. This makes them perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Furthermore, this recipe is highly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different toppings or ingredients. For instance, you could add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or even drizzle a bit of honey on top for a touch of sweetness. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the bites to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Ingredients
For the Bites
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz brie cheese, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
Feel free to experiment with different toppings like nuts or herbs!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into squares, about 3 inches each.
Assemble the Bites
Place a piece of brie cheese in the center of each puff pastry square and top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
Seal and Brush
Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and pinch to seal. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
Bake
Place the assembled bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme, and serve warm.
Enjoy these delectable bites while they're warm!
Storage Tips
If you have any leftover Mini Cranberry Brie Bites, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain the flaky texture of the puff pastry while ensuring the cheese remains creamy and delicious.
For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled bites before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfect results.
Nutritional Information
Each Mini Cranberry Brie Bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them a tempting option for snack lovers. While they are a decadent treat, it's essential to enjoy them in moderation. The creamy brie provides a good source of calcium and protein, while the cranberry sauce adds a touch of fiber and antioxidants.
To make the bites a bit healthier, consider using whole-grain puff pastry or reducing the amount of cheese per bite. You can also experiment with lower-fat cheese alternatives without sacrificing too much flavor. Remember, balance is key, so enjoy these bites as part of a varied and nutritious diet.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bites and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake.
→ What can I substitute for brie cheese?
You can use camembert or another soft cheese as a substitute.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I freeze these bites?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked bites. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Mini Cranberry Brie Bites
These Mini Cranberry Brie Bites are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful appetizer. The creamy brie combined with sweet cranberry sauce creates a delicious flavor explosion in every bite.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Holiday & Occasion Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 bites
What You'll Need
For the Bites
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz brie cheese, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into squares, about 3 inches each.
Place a piece of brie cheese in the center of each puff pastry square and top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and pinch to seal. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
Place the assembled bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme, and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 3g