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- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed) - 8 ounces of Brie cheese (cut into small cubes) - 1 cup fresh cranberries - 2 tablespoons honey - 1 tablespoon sugar - 1 teaspoon lemon juice - 1 egg (beaten for egg wash) - Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish) - Cracked black pepper (optional) The main ingredients are simple yet flavorful. Puff pastry provides a flaky base. The Brie cheese adds creaminess. Fresh cranberries bring a tart taste. Honey, sugar, and lemon juice balance the flavors. Together, they create a delicious bite. The additional ingredients enhance the dish. The egg wash gives a golden crust. Fresh thyme leaves add a pop of color. Cracked black pepper adds a hint of spice. Each element plays a role in making this dish stand out. Gather all your ingredients before starting. This makes the cooking process smooth and easy. Having everything ready sets you up for success in the kitchen. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the bites bake evenly. 2. In a saucepan, mix 1 cup of fresh cranberries, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Heat it over medium. Stir until the mixture bubbles and the cranberries pop, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and let it cool. 3. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface. Cut it into 3x3 inch squares. You should get about 12 squares from one sheet. 1. Place each puff pastry square into a greased mini muffin tin. Press them gently into the cups. 2. Add a small cube of Brie cheese (about 8 ounces total) to each pastry cup. 3. Spoon a teaspoon of the cooled cranberry mixture over the Brie in each cup. 4. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with a beaten egg. This gives a golden finish. 1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Look for puffed, golden brown pastry. 2. Allow the bites to cool for a few minutes. Carefully remove them from the muffin tin. 3. Garnish each bite with fresh thyme leaves. If you like, sprinkle some cracked black pepper on top before serving. To achieve a flaky puff pastry, make sure it is cold before baking. When you work with it, keep it on a floured surface. Roll it out gently. If it gets warm, place it back in the fridge for a bit. This helps the pastry rise nicely. Prevent soggy bottoms by using a greased muffin tin. Press the pastry snugly into the cups. Also, bake them right after you fill them. Delaying can cause moisture to soak into the pastry. Adding herbs can elevate your bites. Fresh thyme works well. You can also try rosemary or sage for a twist. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper adds a nice kick. Pair these bites with sauces like balsamic glaze or a sweet chutney. These condiments bring out the tartness of cranberries and the creaminess of Brie. For a gathering, serve these bites on a large platter. Mix in some fresh herbs around them for color. You can also use small bowls for dips or sauces. Creative plating can include stacking the bites in a pyramid shape. This makes an attractive centerpiece. Consider adding seasonal fruits for a pop of color and flavor. Pro Tips Use Cold Puff Pastry: Ensure your puff pastry is cold before baking for the best rise and flakiness. Experiment with Jams: Feel free to swap the cranberry mixture with other jams like raspberry or apricot for different flavor profiles. Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can add a unique twist to the flavor and presentation. Make Ahead: You can prepare the pastry cups and filling in advance, then bake just before serving for fresh bites. {{image_2}} You can switch up the cheese in your Cranberry Brie Bites. Try using goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Cream cheese works well, too, for a milder taste. You can also use sharp cheddar for a kick. For the fruit, consider using figs or pears. Both pair nicely with cheese. You can swap the cranberry jam for a raspberry or apricot jam. This change adds a unique twist that keeps things fun. To make these bites gluten-free, use gluten-free puff pastry. Many brands offer good options that work great. Check the label to ensure they fit your needs. If you want a vegan version, use vegan cheese instead of Brie. You can also use maple syrup or agave in place of honey. This keeps the flavors rich while meeting dietary needs. For the holidays, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cranberry mix. This brings warmth to the bites. You can also top them with crushed nuts for extra crunch. In summer, use fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. Swap out the cranberries for a light fruit mix. This creates a refreshing treat perfect for warm days. To store leftover Cranberry Brie Bites, place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture. If you want to reheat them, use an oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). Bake them for about 10 minutes. This method keeps the pastry crisp and the cheese melty. For long-term storage, freezing is a great option. After baking, let the bites cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, about an hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy them, take them out and thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This restores their delicious taste and flaky texture. How long do Cranberry Brie Bites last? Cranberry Brie Bites last about 3 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven for best results. Can I make them ahead of time? Yes, you can make them ahead. Prepare the bites and freeze them before baking. When ready, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. What type of Brie is best for this recipe? Use a soft Brie cheese for a creamy texture. Look for a Brie that melts well, as this adds richness to each bite. How do I know when they're done baking? Cranberry Brie Bites are done when the pastry is puffed and golden brown. The cheese should be melty and bubbly. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking. What do I serve with Cranberry Brie Bites? Pair these bites with a fresh salad or a charcuterie board. They go well with crackers and fruit, too. A glass of sparkling wine or cider also enhances the flavors. Are they suitable for special occasions? Absolutely! These bites are perfect for holidays, parties, and family gatherings. Their elegant look and taste impress guests at any event. Cranberry Brie Bites combine warmth, flavor, and bright colors on your table. We covered the key ingredients, simple steps, and tips for the perfect bite. This treat is easy to make and can fit any season or event. Don't forget to try variations and serve these bites to impress guests. With proper storage, you can enjoy them longer too. Happy cooking!

Cranberry Brie Bites with Sweet Jams

Delicious puff pastry bites filled with Brie cheese and a sweet cranberry mixture.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
  • 8 ounces Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
  • to taste fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
  • to taste cracked black pepper (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries, honey, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir occasionally until the mixture starts to bubble and the cranberries pop (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  • Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares, approximately 3x3 inches. You should get about 12 squares from one sheet.
  • Place the puff pastry squares into a greased mini muffin tin, pressing them gently into the cups.
  • Add a small cube of Brie cheese to each pastry cup.
  • Spoon a teaspoon of the cranberry mixture over the Brie in each cup.
  • Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
  • Allow to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing from the muffin tin.
  • Garnish each bite with fresh thyme leaves and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper if desired.

Notes

Serve warm for the best flavor.
Keyword appetizer, Brie, cranberry, puff pastry