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Easy Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites: Best 20-Minute Appetizer

cranberry brie puff pastry bites - featured image

These cranberry brie puff pastry bites are the perfect quick and easy appetizer, ready in under 20 minutes. With flaky pastry, creamy brie, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 4 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into ½-inch cubes
  • ¼ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Unfold the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If it cracks, gently press the cracks back together. Use a rolling pin to smooth it slightly if needed, but keep the pastry cold.
  3. Cut the pastry into 9 equal squares (about 3 inches each). Transfer to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
  4. Using the tip of a knife, lightly score a border about ¼ inch from the edge of each pastry square. Do not cut all the way through.
  5. Place a cube of brie in the center of each pastry square. Top with about ½ teaspoon of cranberry sauce. If using nuts, sprinkle a few chopped pieces on top.
  6. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to chill the assembled bites.
  7. After chilling, brush the edges of each pastry square with the beaten egg. Avoid letting the egg wash drip onto the filling or pan.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the brie is melted and bubbly. Start checking at 12 minutes.
  9. Let the bites rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Keep everything cold for best results. Don’t skip the chilling step—it prevents soggy pastry. Score the edges to help contain the filling. Watch the oven closely as bites can go from golden to burnt quickly. Make extra as they disappear fast. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, not the microwave.

Nutrition

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