Appetizers are the heartbeat of any gathering, aren’t they? Everyone loves that moment of anticipation when the first bite is taken, and Baked Cranberry Brie Bites are the quintessential crowd-pleaser! I can’t tell you how many times these little gems have stolen the show at my parties. They’re so easy to whip up, and the combination of gooey brie and sweet-tart cranberry sauce wrapped in flaky puff pastry is simply irresistible. I remember one holiday gathering where these disappeared faster than I could make them! Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become your go-to appetizer too.
Ingredients List
For these delightful Baked Cranberry Brie Bites, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz brie cheese, cut into small, bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cranberry sauce, homemade or store-bought
- 1 egg, beaten (for that gorgeous golden finish)
- Fresh thyme, for a touch of color and flavor
How to Prepare Baked Cranberry Brie Bites
Making these delectable Baked Cranberry Brie Bites is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer in no time.
Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that your bites bake evenly and get that perfect golden color, so don’t skip this step!
Prepare the Puff Pastry
Next, roll out your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. You want it nice and thin, about 1/8 inch thick. Then, cut it into squares—aim for about 3 inches by 3 inches. This size is perfect for a delightful, bite-sized treat!
Assemble the Bites
Now, it’s time to fill those pastry squares! Place a piece of brie in the center of each square and add a spoonful of cranberry sauce right on top. Then, fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to form a little pocket, pinching the edges to seal them tightly. This keeps all that gooey goodness inside while baking!
Bake and Garnish
Place your assembled bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for that beautiful, shiny finish. Bake them for 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and puffed up. Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh thyme for a pop of color and flavor before serving!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for last-minute gatherings!
- Deliciously creamy brie paired with the sweetness of cranberry sauce.
- Flaky puff pastry that adds a delightful crunch.
- Always a hit at parties; they disappear in minutes!
- Customizable with different toppings or herbs to suit your taste.
Tips for Success
To make your Baked Cranberry Brie Bites absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, if you have any leftover bites, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture. You can also switch things up by adding chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey on top before baking for extra flair. Get creative and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Each delightful Baked Cranberry Brie Bite is about 150 calories, making them a tasty yet indulgent treat. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
Enjoy these bites in moderation and savor every delicious mouthful!
Frequently Asked Questions
I often get asked about these delightful Baked Cranberry Brie Bites, so here are some common questions and my answers to help you out!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While brie is classic, you can try other soft cheeses like camembert or goat cheese for a unique twist.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a few hours in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to brush with egg wash right before baking!
What can I serve with these bites?
They pair beautifully with a light salad or a charcuterie board for a complete appetizer spread. Enjoy the mix of flavors!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for that fresh, crispy texture!
Serving Suggestions
These Baked Cranberry Brie Bites are perfect on their own, but if you want to elevate your appetizer game, consider serving them alongside a fresh arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. A selection of crackers and cured meats can also complement their creamy richness beautifully. For a festive touch, pair them with a glass of sparkling wine or cider—cheers!
Print
Baked Cranberry Brie Bites: 5 Irresistible Party Pleasers
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious baked cranberry brie bites are a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 8 oz brie cheese, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface.
- Cut the pastry into squares.
- Place a piece of brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce in the center of each square.
- Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and pinch to seal.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
Notes
- Use store-bought cranberry sauce for quicker preparation.
- Customize with different herbs or spices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Baked Cranberry Brie Bites, appetizer, easy recipe