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Easy Cranberry Brie Bites: Perfect 20-Minute Appetizer

cranberry brie bites - featured image

These easy cranberry brie bites are the perfect last-minute appetizer, combining buttery puff pastry, creamy brie, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce in just 20 minutes. They’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from holiday parties to school potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package puff pastry sheets, thawed
  • 8 ounces brie cheese, cold
  • ½ cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (optional)
  • 1 large egg (for egg wash)
  • Flaky sea salt, a pinch

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Thaw the puff pastry if frozen. Place sheets on the counter for about 20 minutes, or microwave on defrost for 10-15 seconds. They should be pliable but still cold.
  3. Unfold each puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 9 equal squares (3 rows by 3 rows) to make 18 squares total.
  4. Cut the cold brie into small cubes, about ½ inch each. Keep the rind on. You should get about 18 cubes.
  5. Place each puff pastry square on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Gently press a brie cube into the center of each square.
  6. Spoon about ½ teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of each brie cube.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the exposed edges of each pastry square.
  8. If using fresh herbs, scatter a tiny pinch over each bite. Add a small sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
  9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. The edges should be crispy, and the cheese should be bubbling slightly.
  10. Let the bites rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before serving. Transfer to a serving platter.

Notes

Keep everything cold for best results. Don’t skip the egg wash for a golden finish. Use cold brie for easier cutting. Assemble up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate. Freeze unbaked bites for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry brie bites, easy appetizer, puff pastry appetizer, holiday appetizer, 20-minute appetizer