Looking for the ultimate holiday appetizer? These baked cranberry brie bites are buttery, gooey, and guaranteed to disappear fast. I made them for the first time at Thanksgiving, and they’ve been a family favorite ever since. Each bite delivers creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry, and crisp pastry. Better yet, they come together in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Brie Bites
These baked cranberry brie bites are festive, fast, and full of flavor. They’re easy to prep, bake, and serve. Even better, they’re make-ahead friendly. You can assemble them the night before and pop them into the oven just before guests arrive. The flaky pastry and melty cheese are a match made for the holidays.
Ingredients for Baked Cranberry Brie Bites
Pantry & Fresh Essentials
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| 1 sheet puff pastry | Thawed overnight |
| 4 oz brie cheese | Cut into 16 small cubes |
| 1/2 cup cranberry sauce | Use whole-berry for best texture |
| Candied pecans (optional) | Chopped, adds crunch |
| Fresh rosemary (optional) | Adds color and aroma |
Want safe prep tips for frozen pastry? Check the USDA food safety guide.
Smart Substitutions for Crescent Roll Brie Bites
If puff pastry isn’t available, crescent dough or biscuit rounds work great. Try fig jam or pepper jelly for a flavor twist. Dairy-free cheese makes it vegan-friendly. Want more texture? Swap pecans for toasted almonds.
How to Make Baked Cranberry Brie Bites
Want to know exactly how to make baked cranberry brie bites at home? Follow these four simple steps, from prep to golden perfection, and enjoy an easy, elegant appetizer in under 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- Prep the Pastry
Cut puff pastry into 16 squares. Press each square into the muffin cups.
- Add Brie and Cranberry
Place a cube of brie in each pastry, then top with cranberry sauce.
- Bake and Serve
Bake for 15–18 minutes until puffed and golden. Cool slightly and garnish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Holiday Appetizers
Chill the brie for 10 minutes before slicing, it cuts cleaner. For deeper color, brush pastry edges with egg wash. Don’t overfill each bite or they’ll bubble over. Want more ideas? Browse our spinach artichoke wonton cups or spicy ricotta dip.
Brie Recipes: Easy Ways to Customize These Bites
These baked cranberry brie bites adapt easily. Use puff pastry, crescent dough, or phyllo. Try savory variations with caramelized onions or jammy bacon. Vegan cheese works well too. Inspired by Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing? Add sage or thyme for a herbaceous version.
What to Serve With Brie Bites at Your Holiday Table
Serve these alongside garlic bread rolls, root vegetable gratin, or a glass of chilled sparkling wine. For balance, offer crisp apple slices or a fall salad with vinaigrette.
How to Store and Reheat Brie Bites Properly
Let the bites cool fully, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, place in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes. Skip the microwave, it ruins the pastry. For full guidance, see FDA storage rules.
Nutrition Info for Cranberry Cheese Appetizers
Each baked cranberry brie bite has about 110 calories, 7g fat, and 3g protein. Brie adds calcium and a dose of flavor. Want to know more? Read this NIH study on cheese nutrition.
FAQs About Baked Cranberry Brie Bites
Cut puff pastry, fill with brie and cranberry sauce, and bake until golden.
No. The rind is soft, edible, and melts beautifully during baking.
Yes. You can assemble them a day in advance and bake just before serving.
Top a wheel of brie with cranberry sauce and bake, or use this puff pastry method for individual bites.
More Like Baked Cranberry Brie Bites
Try spicy ricotta dip, garlic bread rolls, root vegetable gratin, or spinach artichoke wonton cups next.
Print
Baked Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 16 bites
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Gooey brie, sweet cranberry sauce, and golden puff pastry make these festive baked cranberry brie bites the perfect holiday appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry – thawed overnight
- 4 oz brie cheese – cut into 16 cubes
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce – whole-berry or homemade
- 1/4 cup candied pecans (optional) – chopped
- Fresh rosemary (optional) – for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- Cut puff pastry into 16 squares. Press each square into the muffin cups.
- Place a cube of brie in each pastry, then top with cranberry sauce.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until puffed and golden. Cool slightly and garnish.
Notes
- Freeze brie for 10 minutes for easier slicing.
- Don’t overfill pastry to avoid bubbling over.
- Brush edges with egg wash for a golden crust.
- Use crescent dough or phyllo if puff pastry isn’t available.
- Great make-ahead appetizer for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Save Baked Cranberry Brie Bites for Later
Save these baked cranberry brie bites to Pinterest or your holiday board, they’re always a crowd favorite.