Cranberry brie pastry bites are little pockets of flaky, buttery pastry filled with creamy brie cheese and tangy cranberry sauce. They’re a perfect mix of gooey cheese and sweet-tart fruit wrapped up in crisp, golden layers. These bites are small but packed with flavor, making them a fantastic appetizer or party snack.
I love making these for gatherings because they’re easy to pop in the oven and only take a few minutes to prepare. The combination of warm brie melting right into the tart cranberries always gets a thumbs up from my friends and family. My little tip is to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme on top for a subtle touch that really brings all the flavors together.
These cranberry brie pastry bites are best served warm, straight from the oven while the cheese is still melty. I like pairing them with a simple green salad or some crisp white wine—and they never last long on the table! They remind me of cozy holiday parties, where everyone gathers around chatting and nibbling on delicious little treats like these.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is your flaky, buttery base. Store-bought puff pastry works great and saves time. If you prefer, phyllo dough can be used, but it will be crispier, not as puffy.
Brie Cheese: Brie gives a creamy, mild flavor. If you can’t find brie, camembert or cream cheese mixed with a bit of mozzarella can be good substitutes.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness pairs perfectly with the cheese. You can use store-bought or homemade. If unavailable, raspberry or cherry jam also works well for that sweet-tart balance.
Egg Wash: Brushing the pastry edges with beaten egg gives a golden, shiny crust. For a vegan option, you can brush with plant-based milk or a little oil.
Fresh Thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note that lifts the flavors. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or sage can be used, or you can skip the herbs entirely.
How Can I Get Perfectly Puff Pastry Bites with Melted Brie?
Getting the pastry golden and puffed while the brie melts just right is key to this recipe. Here’s how to do it:
- Thaw puff pastry fully but keep it cool to handle easily and avoid sticking.
- Cut squares evenly so they bake uniformly.
- Brush egg wash only on the edges; this helps seal and browns nicely.
- Don’t overload each bite with too much brie or cranberry sauce to avoid sogginess.
- Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for even heat and easy cleanup.
- Watch closely near the end of baking so the cheese melts but the pastry doesn’t burn.
- Let bites cool a bit before serving to avoid burning your mouth!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend lining it with parchment paper to keep things easy to clean.
- Rolling pin – helps to roll out the puff pastry smoothly and evenly.
- Knife or pizza cutter – to cut the puff pastry into even squares.
- Brush – a pastry brush makes egg wash easy to apply for a golden finish.
- Measuring spoons – to scoop out cranberry sauce and add precise amounts of other ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap the cranberry sauce for fig jam or raspberry preserves for a different fruity flavor.
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon on top before baking for a salty crunch.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Mix in some herbs like rosemary or thyme into the cranberries for a more aromatic bite.
Cranberry Brie Pastry Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 8 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes or slices
- ½ cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
- Optional: a pinch of black pepper or honey for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for last-minute snacks or party appetizers.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your pastry from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Cut and Arrange Puff Pastry Squares:
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into about 12 even squares. Place each square neatly on your prepared baking sheet, giving them some room to puff up while baking.
3. Add Brie and Cranberry Sauce:
Put a small piece of brie cheese in the center of each pastry square. Then, spoon about one teaspoon of cranberry sauce right on top of the brie for that lovely sweet-tart flavor.
4. Apply Egg Wash and Bake:
Lightly brush the edges of the pastry squares with the beaten egg. This will give you that beautiful golden color once baked. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes until the pastry puffs up and turns golden brown, and the brie melts nicely.
5. Garnish and Serve:
When the bites come out of the oven, let them cool for a couple of minutes. Then, add a small sprig of fresh thyme on each bite. If you like, drizzle a little honey or sprinkle some black pepper over the top for extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen puff pastry, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before using. This helps it roll out smoothly and bake evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Brie Cheese?
If you don’t have brie, camembert or a mild, creamy cheese like cream cheese mixed with mozzarella works well as a substitute.
How Should I Store Leftover Pastry Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a low oven for a few minutes to keep the pastry crisp.
Can I Make These Pastry Bites Ahead of Time?
You can assemble the pastry bites ahead and keep them refrigerated before baking. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best puff and crispiness.