Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin or line with paper liners if desired, though greasing usually suffices for puff pastry.
- Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface or a piece of parchment paper. If using a standard rectangle, you can gently roll it out to about a 10×15 inch rectangle.
- Using a 2-inch round cookie cutter, or the rim of a small drinking glass, cut out 24 circles from the puff pastry. Gently gather and re-roll any scraps to get the full 24 circles.
- Carefully press each puff pastry circle into the cups of the mini muffin tin, creating a small cup.
- Place one small piece of brie cheese into the center of each puff pastry cup.
- Top each brie piece with about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up, and the brie is melted and bubbly.
- Carefully remove the mini muffin tin from the oven and let the bites cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
- Serve warm, garnished with a tiny sprig of fresh rosemary or a sprinkle of orange zest, if desired.
Full Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed (from a 17.3-ounce box)
- 4 ounces brie cheese, rind removed (or left on for extra flavor, your preference), cut into 24 small pieces
- 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Optional: Sprig of fresh rosemary or orange zest for garnish
Shopping List
- Dairy & Eggs: Brie cheese
- Pantry: Whole berry cranberry sauce
- Frozen: Puff pastry
- Produce: Fresh rosemary (optional), orange (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Standard 24-cup mini muffin tin
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Small round cookie cutter (2-inch diameter) or drinking glass
- Small spoon or butter knife for spreading
- Cooling rack
Variations & Serving Ideas
For the ultimate enjoyment, present these exquisite Cranberry Brie Bites warm, straight from the oven, when the brie is perfectly molten and the pastry is at its flakiest. Arrange them artfully on a beautiful serving platter – they look stunning nestled amongst fresh cranberries, sprigs of rosemary, or even a few scattered toasted nuts. They pair wonderfully with other festive appetizers, perhaps a robust charcuterie spread, a light green salad, or even alongside a sparkling cider or a crisp white wine. If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To revive their glory, a quick reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes will bring back their flaky exterior and gooey interior.
I genuinely hope these delectable Cranberry Brie Bites bring joy and ease to your next gathering! They’re a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. I’d love to hear about your experience – did you try a fun new topping or garnish? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! Happy cooking and happy entertaining! #CranberryBrieBites #CranberryBriePuffPastryBites #EasyCranberryBrieBites #HolidayCranberryBrieAppetizers #CranberryBrieBitesRecipe #PuffPastryCranberryBites #ChristmasAppetizerCranberryBrie #3IngredientCranberryBites