Name: Cranberry Brie Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed; 4 oz brie cheese, cut into 24 small cubes; ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, plus more for garnish; 2 tablespoons chopped pecans (optional); 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

If there's one appetizer that will disappear in seconds at your next gathering, it's these Cranberry Brie Bites! Buttery, flaky puff pastry cradles creamy, luscious brie and a bright pop of sweet-tart cranberry sauce. Each bite is pure melt-in-your-mouth decadence-festive, elegant, and oh-so-addictive!

These irresistible bites are the perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and crispy textures. Not only do they look gorgeous on a holiday platter, they're ridiculously easy to make with just a handful of ingredients.

They make any celebration feel extra special, from Thanksgiving and Christmas to girls' night or casual brunches. I've made them every year for my family's holiday party, and there are never any leftovers!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ready in just 30 minutes for effortless entertaining.
Only five main ingredients-minimal prep, maximum flavor!
The perfect balance of creamy brie, tart cranberry, and buttery pastry.
Elegant finger food, ideal for holidays, parties, or family get-togethers.

Key Ingredients for Cranberry Brie Bites

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Brie Cheese

Brie is the star of this appetizer, providing ultra-creamy, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with tart cranberries. Choose a wedge of brie that's ripe but still firm so it's easy to slice and holds its shape in the oven. No need to remove the rind-it's edible and adds a subtle earthy note. If you prefer, you can substitute double-cream camembert for a similar consistency.

Puff Pastry

Buttery, flaky puff pastry turns these bites into party-worthy treats. Use store-bought frozen puff pastry for ultimate convenience-just remember to thaw it completely in the fridge for easy handling. If you want a gluten-free version, there are several gluten-free puff pastry brands you can try!

Cranberry Sauce

The tart sweetness of cranberry sauce is what makes these bites extra special. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought whole berry cranberry sauce for best results. In a pinch, raspberry preserves or fig jam also taste delicious for a little flavor twist.

Fresh Thyme

A sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves brightens up each bite with a hint of herby freshness and makes the final appetizer look elegant. If you don't have thyme, chopped rosemary or even parsley works nicely as a garnish.

Chopped Pecans (Optional)

For extra crunch and a fun holiday touch, add a few chopped pecans on top before baking. Walnuts or sliced almonds are great swaps if you prefer a different nutty note, or you can leave the nuts out entirely for a nut-free version.

Instructions for Cranberry Brie Bites

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Muffin Tin and Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin. On a lightly floured surface, gently unfold your thawed puff pastry sheet. Use a rolling pin to smooth it out and patch any cracks as needed.

Cut and Shape the Pastry

Cut the puff pastry into 24 equal squares (about 2x2 inches each). Press each square into the wells of your prepared muffin tin, gently shaping them to form little cups.

Add the Brie, Cranberry, and Toppings

Place a cube of brie in each pastry cup. Top with about one teaspoon of cranberry sauce per cup. Sprinkle over fresh thyme leaves and chopped pecans if desired.

Brush with Egg Wash

Brush the exposed edges of pastry lightly with beaten egg for a gorgeous golden finish. This helps the bites become extra crisp and shiny.

Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deep golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Let the bites cool for 5 minutes before gently lifting them from the pan.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer to a platter and sprinkle with a little extra fresh thyme for a festive touch. Serve warm or at room temperature-either way, they'll vanish fast!

Recipe Variations

Try Different Cheeses

Switch it up by swapping brie with camembert or triple-cream goat cheese. Each will give you a slightly different but equally delicious melty center.

Go Nut-Free

Skip the pecans if your guests have nut allergies, or try adding a sprinkle of toasted seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower) for a fun texture.

Make It Gluten-Free

Use your favorite gluten-free puff pastry from the freezer section-no one will know the difference once they're filled with cheesy goodness!

Sweet or Savory Twist

Change the flavor profile by using raspberry preserves, fig jam, or even thinly sliced pears instead of cranberry sauce.

Add Some Heat

For a savory-sweet kick, add a tiny pinch of chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot honey on top of the cranberry sauce before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Cranberry Brie Bites are made for sharing! Serve them warm on a festive platter garnished with extra thyme sprigs or pomegranate arils for a pop of color. Pair them with sparkling wine, a simple mixed green salad, or a classic charcuterie board for a stunning appetizer spread.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Freezing is possible (baked or unbaked), but the texture is best when enjoyed fresh. If freezing, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Brie Bites (FAQ)

Q: Can I make Cranberry Brie Bites ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble the bites up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Q: What if I don't have a mini muffin tin?

A: You can use a regular muffin tin, but the bites will be larger-simply increase the amount of fillings per cup and add 1-2 minutes to the bake time.

Q: Can I use canned crescent dough instead of puff pastry?

A: Absolutely! Crescent dough is a good substitute and will make the bites a little softer and breadier but still tasty.

Ready to wow your guests with these festive, flaky Cranberry Brie Bites? They're the perfect blend of convenience and gourmet flavor-easy enough for beginners, impressive enough for any occasion. Give them a try and let me know how quickly they disappear! Don't forget to leave a rating and comment if you love this recipe.

★★★★★ 4.80 from 191 ratings