Cranberry Brie Bites
Cranberry Brie Bites are a delectable and sophisticated appetizer that combines the creamy richness of Brie cheese with the tart sweetness of cranberry sauce. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, festive parties, or as a refined starter for any special occasion.
The crisp pastry shell provides a delightful crunch, while the melted Brie and tangy cranberry create a harmonious blend of flavors that will impress your guests. Easy to prepare and elegant in presentation, these bites are sure to become a favorite addition to your appetizer repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 ounces Brie cheese
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)
How to Make:
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the puff pastry bakes evenly and becomes golden and crisp.
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out creases. Using a sharp knife or a round cookie cutter, cut the pastry into small squares or circles, about 2 inches in size. You should be able to get about 12-15 pieces from one sheet of puff pastry.
Prepare the Brie: Cut the Brie cheese into small squares or rounds that will fit neatly on top of the puff pastry pieces. Each piece should be about 1 inch in size. If you prefer, you can remove the rind of the Brie to allow for a smoother melt, but this is optional.
Assemble the Bites: Place the puff pastry pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top each piece of puff pastry with a small square or round of Brie cheese. Spoon a small dollop of cranberry sauce on top of the Brie, making sure not to overfill.
Apply Egg Wash: Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked. This also helps seal the edges and keep the Brie and cranberry sauce contained.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the Brie is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
Garnish and Serve: Once the bites are out of the oven, let them cool slightly. If desired, sprinkle with finely chopped fresh rosemary for a touch of color and extra flavor. You can also add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper if you like a bit of heat. Serve warm and enjoy!
Chef’s Note: For a different flavor profile, consider using other types of fruit preserves or chutneys, such as fig or apple, instead of cranberry sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top for added texture and flavor. These bites can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Info: (Note: Nutritional values are approximate and based on 1 bite, assuming 15 bites from the recipe.)
- Calories: 90 per bite
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 7g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 2g
Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that adds a touch of elegance to any gathering. Enjoy their creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor profile!