When it comes to festive appetizers, few can match the elegance and simplicity of Cranberry Brie Bites. These savory-sweet delights combine the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tangy burst of cranberry sauce, all wrapped up in a flaky puff pastry or crescent roll dough. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or attending a gathering, these bites are guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love Cranberry Brie Bites
Cranberry Brie Bites are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. They require minimal ingredients, can be assembled in advance, and baked right before serving. Plus, they are customizable — you can swap out the cranberry sauce for another favorite jam or even experiment with different toppings like herbs and nuts.
For a deeper dive into more holiday appetizer ideas, check out these Puff Pastry Bites for more inspiration on how to elevate your party menu.
Ingredients for Cranberry Brie Bites
To make these delectable bites, you’ll need:
- 1 sheet of crescent roll dough or puff pastry
- 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz.)
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (or any fruit preserve)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
- Chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish (optional)
- All-purpose flour (for dusting the dough)
For more flavor inspiration, you might also consider pairing your bites with other ingredients like toasted nuts. Check out these Cranberry Walnut Brie Recipes for more delicious variations.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a mini muffin tin with cooking spray. On a floured surface, roll out your crescent dough or puff pastry. If you’re using crescent rolls, make sure to pinch the seams together to form one cohesive sheet.
Cut the dough into 24 equal-sized squares, then press each square into the mini muffin tin slots.
2. Add the Brie
Cut your brie cheese into small bite-sized cubes. Place one cube of brie in each dough square, and top with a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce.
For variations, you can swap out the cranberry sauce for raspberry, blueberry, or even orange marmalade. Learn more about creative brie cheese recipes with these Festive Brie Ideas.
3. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the oven for about 12–15 minutes, or until the dough turns golden brown and crispy. The brie should be melted and gooey by the time they’re done.
4. Garnish and Serve
Top each bite with a sprig of fresh rosemary or some toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture. Serve the bites warm to fully enjoy the creamy brie and sweet cranberry contrast.
Customization Ideas
Here are a few variations to make your Cranberry Brie Bites even more exciting:
- Sweet Jams: Try using raspberry or blueberry jam instead of cranberry sauce for a new twist.
- Toppings: Drizzle some honey or add a dash of balsamic glaze for an elevated flavor combination.
- Herbs: Use thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a slightly different herbaceous note.
For additional ideas, consider exploring other festive appetizers like these Mini Quiche Recipes, which also make great holiday finger foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough?
Yes, puff pastry is an excellent alternative to crescent roll dough and will give the bites a more buttery, flaky texture.
Do I need to remove the rind from the brie?
No, the rind is completely edible and softens when baked. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can remove it.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, Cranberry Brie Bites can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer right before serving.
Can these be frozen?
Yes! After baking, these bites can be frozen and reheated when needed. Just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
Cranberry Brie Bites are the perfect addition to any holiday spread. With their combination of creamy brie, sweet cranberry sauce, and buttery pastry, they’re sure to impress your guests. Best of all, they’re easy to make and can be adapted to suit different tastes. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute appetizer or something to make ahead, these bites will make your holiday gatherings extra special.
Looking for more recipes? Check out this Ultimate Holiday Appetizer Guide for a range of ideas that will wow your guests!