Description
Delight your guests with these elegant Cranberry Brie Bites, perfect for holiday parties or cozy gatherings. This easy-to-make appetizer features buttery puff pastry filled with creamy brie cheese, tangy whole berry cranberry sauce, and crunchy toasted pecans, all baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh rosemary. A drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory and tart flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed and cold
Filling
- 6 ounces brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
Garnish
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Pastry Cups: Roll out the puff pastry on a clean surface and cut it into 2-inch squares. Carefully press each square into the cups of the muffin tin, forming little pastry cups.
- Add Brie Cheese: Place a small cube of brie cheese into each pastry cup, ensuring even distribution.
- Add Cranberry Sauce: Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of whole berry cranberry sauce over the brie in each cup.
- Top with Pecans: Sprinkle the chopped toasted pecans evenly over each cup to add crunch and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the brie cheese has melted.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the bites to cool slightly for safe handling and optimal texture.
- Garnish: Garnish each bite with a small sprig of fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch and visual appeal.
- Optional Drizzle: Before serving, optionally drizzle the bites with honey or balsamic glaze to enhance the flavor balance.
Notes
- Make sure the puff pastry is cold to handle easily and achieve the best texture.
- To toast pecans, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir frequently until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- You can prepare the bites ahead of time up to the baking step and refrigerate; just add baking time if baking from chilled.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans and substitute with toasted breadcrumbs or seeds if desired.
- Use a sharp knife when cutting the puff pastry to maintain clean edges.
