Cranberry Brie Bites

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When it comes to easy appetizers that feel just a bit fancy, cranberry brie bites are a true gem.

These warm, flaky bites bring together creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and a touch of crunch with pistachio garnish.

They’re quick to prepare, yet they look and taste like something special – perfect for gatherings, cozy evenings, or a quick treat whenever the mood strikes.

Just a few ingredients, a few minutes in the oven, and you have bite-sized treats that look beautiful on the table and taste even better.

Let’s walk through the steps to make these impressive, crowd-pleasing bites!

Table of Contents

Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups whole berry cranberry sauce
2 puff pastry sheets, thawed
8 ounces brie cheese, chilled
1/4 cup chopped pistachios (for garnish)

Instructions

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut each puff pastry sheet into 3-inch squares. Press each square into a mini muffin tin to form little cups.
Place a 1-inch slice of brie in the center of each pastry cup. Spoon 1 tablespoon of cranberry sauce on top of the brie.
Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the pastry edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let them cool for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top just before serving.

What To Serve With Cranberry Brie Bites?

Cranberry brie bites are a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and creamy, and pairing them with the right sides can make your spread even more enjoyable.

Here are some ideas to enhance your appetizer game:

Fresh Fruits: Grapes, apple slices, and pear wedges add freshness and contrast to the rich flavors.
Nuts and Dried Fruits: Almonds, walnuts, dried apricots, and figs complement the tart cranberry and creamy brie.
Charcuterie Board: Thinly sliced meats like prosciutto, salami, or smoked turkey pair well with the bites.
Crackers or Crostini: Offer some plain crackers or crispy baguette slices for guests to enjoy alongside.
Salad: A light, green salad with a vinaigrette dressing brings a refreshing balance to the rich bites.

How To Store Cranberry Brie Bites?

If you have leftovers, storing them properly helps keep their flavor and texture:

In the Refrigerator: Place the bites in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Layer with Care: If stacking is needed, separate each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can Cranberry Brie Bites Be Frozen?

Yes, you can freeze cranberry brie bites! Here’s how:

Prepare and Cool: Let the bites cool completely after baking to avoid sogginess.
Freeze Individually: Place the bites on a baking sheet and freeze them for an hour or until solid. This step prevents them from sticking together.
Store in a Freezer Bag: Once frozen, transfer the bites into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to a month.

Can You Reheat Cranberry Brie Bites?

Yes, reheating cranberry brie bites is simple and brings back their warm, gooey goodness. Here’s how to do it:

In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bites on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
In the Microwave: Microwave on low for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the pastry chewy.

Reheating in the oven is best for keeping the pastry crisp, while the microwave works for a quick warm-up.

Can You Make Cranberry Brie Bites Ahead Of Time?

Yes, cranberry brie bites can easily be made ahead, which is perfect for saving time when planning for gatherings. Here’s how to prepare them in advance:

Assemble but Don’t Bake: You can prepare the bites by assembling them in the muffin tin but hold off on baking. Cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Bake When Ready to Serve: When you’re ready to serve, simply pop the tray in the preheated oven and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have fresh, warm bites with minimal effort.
Fully Bake and Reheat: If you prefer to bake them ahead, let them cool completely, store in an airtight container, and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes before serving.

Recipe Tips For The Perfect Cranberry Brie Bites

Here are some simple tips to ensure your cranberry brie bites come out perfect every time:

Chill the Brie: Cold brie is easier to slice into neat, even pieces without melting in your hands.
Use Mini Muffin Tins: This keeps each bite uniform in shape and helps the pastry stay crisp and golden.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid overloading with cranberry sauce, as it can overflow while baking. A tablespoon is just right.
Serve Warm: Cranberry brie bites are best enjoyed warm, so serve them shortly after baking or reheat if needed.

Tasty Variations For Cranberry Brie Bites

Want to add your own twist to cranberry brie bites? Here are some fun variations to try:

Add Herbs: Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme on top for an aromatic flavor.
Swap the Nuts: Use pecans, walnuts, or almonds instead of pistachios for a different crunch.
Add a Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey brings extra sweetness that pairs beautifully with the brie and cranberry.
Use Different Jams: Replace cranberry sauce with fig jam, raspberry preserves, or apricot jam for a new flavor combo.

Should You Use Homemade Or Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce?

Both options work well for cranberry brie bites, so it depends on your preference and time. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Homemade Cranberry Sauce: This lets you control the sweetness and tartness, so you can create the exact flavor you want. It can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a few days.
Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce: For convenience, store-bought sauce is perfect and saves you time. Look for a high-quality option with whole berries for the best flavor and texture.

Do You Take The Rind Off The Brie Before Baking?

The rind on brie is completely edible and softens as it bakes, adding to the creamy texture of each bite. Here’s what to know about using the rind:

Keep the Rind On: Most people prefer to leave it on, as it melts nicely and doesn’t affect the taste or texture.
Removing the Rind: If you or your guests aren’t fond of the rind, you can trim it off before baking. Just be gentle, as brie is very soft and can get sticky.

Overall, leaving the rind on is recommended, but it’s easy to remove if preferred. It all depends on your taste!

Can I Use A Different Cheese For Cranberry Brie Bites?

Yes, you can swap out the brie for other cheeses, though brie’s creaminess and mild flavor are what make it special in this recipe. Here are some other cheeses that work well:

Camembert: Similar in texture and flavor to brie, camembert offers a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth option.
Goat Cheese: Tangy and slightly crumbly, goat cheese pairs beautifully with cranberry, but it won’t be as gooey as brie.
Cream Cheese: A more affordable option, cream cheese has a mild flavor and melts well, giving a creamy texture.
Mozzarella: For a mild, melty alternative, mozzarella works, though it doesn’t have the same flavor depth as brie.