The holiday season is finally here 🎄✨ — a time when kitchens are buzzing, laughter fills the air, and Christmas appetizers take center stage. Among all the festive bites, there’s one recipe that never fails to impress: Cranberry Brie Bites.
Imagine golden, flaky puff pastry cradling creamy melted brie, topped with a pop of sweet-tart cranberry sauce… it’s the perfect balance of elegance and comfort in one bite. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday party or preparing a cozy family dinner, these little gems will disappear faster than Santa up the chimney!
Table of content
Table of Contents
🧂 Cranberry Brie Bites Ingredients
- Puff pastry sheets
- Brie cheese wheel (cut into small cubes)
- Cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Optional: chopped pecans, rosemary sprigs, honey drizzle
These simple ingredients create a Christmas appetizer idea that’s elegant yet effortless.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the puff pastry into 2-inch squares and place them into a mini muffin tin.
- Add one cube of brie to each pastry cup.
- Top with a small spoonful of cranberry sauce.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans and a few rosemary leaves if using.
- Bake for 13–15 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
- Remove from oven, drizzle with honey, and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
– These can be assembled a few hours ahead and baked just before serving.
– To reheat, use the oven instead of the microwave to maintain crispiness.
🍳 How to Make Cranberry Brie Bites
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut puff pastry into small squares and place them into mini muffin tins.
- Add a cube of brie into each pastry cup.
- Top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
- Sprinkle pecans and rosemary if using.
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden.
- Let cool slightly, drizzle with honey, and serve warm.
For a detailed step-by-step photo guide, check AllRecipes – Cranberry Brie Bites.
🌟 Tips for Perfect Cranberry Brie Bites
- Keep the puff pastry cold until baking for the best rise.
- Don’t overfill the cups — a little brie goes a long way.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the brie cleanly.
- Assemble ahead and bake just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
- For more creative serving ideas, explore Delish – Christmas Party Ideas.
🥄 Variations & Add-ons
- Swap brie with camembert for a different creamy flavor.
- Replace cranberry with fig or raspberry jam for a sweet twist.
- Add a touch of orange zest to highlight the holiday flavors.
- Top with crushed pistachios for color and crunch.
These easy twists make Cranberry Brie Bites adaptable to any holiday menu.
❄️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips for Cranberry Brie Bites
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven to keep the pastry crisp (avoid microwaving).
- Assemble the bites in advance, refrigerate, and bake when guests arrive.
🙋 FAQs about Cranberry Brie Bites
Q: Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
A: Yes! Baking time will be shorter, so keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Q: Can these appetizers be served cold?
A: They taste best warm, but they can also be served at room temperature for buffets.
Q: Can I make Cranberry Brie Bites in the air fryer?
A: Absolutely. Air fry at 350°F for 6–8 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden.
📝 Conclusion
Wrap up your holiday menu with these festive, elegant, and ridiculously easy Cranberry Brie Bites. This is one of the best christmas appetizer ideas for parties and family gatherings. With flaky pastry, gooey brie, and tangy cranberry sauce, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
👉 Discover more Christmas appetizer ideas on FamilyRecipes.com and make this holiday season extra special!