Introduction

These Cranberry Brie Bites are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, combining buttery puff pastry with creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and crunchy toppings. Perfect as a festive appetizer or party treat, they’re easy to make and sure to impress your guests.

The image shows round, layered puff pastry nests with a golden-brown crust set on a white marbled surface. Each pastry has multiple flaky layers visible, topped with a creamy white cheese layer oozing slightly over the sides. On top, there is a mix of bright red jam and scattered green pistachio nuts adding color and texture. A woman's hand is gently holding one of the pastries in the background, with more pastries blurred behind it, all placed on a white plate with a speckled edge. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (17.3 oz) package frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions
Drizzle of honey
4 oz round brie cheese, cubed into 9 pieces (or 8 oz if you prefer more cheese)
4 ½ tablespoons cranberry sauce
5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Chopped salted pistachios

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with a silicone mat.
Step 2: Unroll one sheet of thawed puff pastry and place it on a clean work surface. Drizzle with honey, then place the second sheet of puff pastry on top. Gently press down to combine the layers.
Step 3: Using a 2.5-inch circle cookie cutter, cut the puff pastry into 9 rounds. Transfer the rounds evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the pastry rounds in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, until golden and puffed.
Step 5: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and place one piece of brie on top of each puff pastry round. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the brie has melted.
Step 6: Remove from oven and top each brie bite with ½ tablespoon cranberry sauce, crumbled bacon, chopped pistachios, and a drizzle of honey.
Step 7: Serve warm and enjoy your delightful cranberry brie bites!

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and add toasted walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Use low-sugar cranberry sauce to control sweetness if you prefer a less sweet bite.
Try adding fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary on top for an aromatic touch.
Be sure to chill your puff pastry if it starts getting too soft before baking, to keep the layers flaky.

Storage

Store leftover cranberry brie bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 375°F (190°C) oven until warmed through, ensuring the pastry stays crisp. These bites can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up of a layered pastry with five visible flaky, golden-brown layers at the bottom. On top, a smooth cream colored layer drapes over one side, with a glossy, deep red jelly sauce sitting above it. The jelly is topped with crushed nuts and small chunks of dried fruit scattered unevenly across the top. A few whole pistachio nuts rest around the base. The dessert is resting on a wooden board against a blurred white marbled texture background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bites ahead and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Bake just before serving to keep the puff pastry crisp and the brie perfectly melted.

What can I substitute for brie cheese?

If you prefer, you can use camembert or a mild goat cheese for a slightly different flavor, but brie is recommended for its creamy texture and mild taste.