Why You’ll Love Irresistible 30-Minute Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe

I like this recipe because it looks impressive without requiring complicated techniques. I appreciate how the flavors balance each other perfectly, with buttery puff pastry and rich brie contrasted by bright cranberry sauce. I also enjoy how versatile these bites are, since they work just as well for holidays as they do for casual gatherings.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
4 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes
1/4 cup cranberry sauce
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1 egg, beaten

Directions

I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready to go. I roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into evenly sized squares. I place a cube of brie in the center of each square, then add a small dollop of cranberry sauce on top. I fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and gently press to seal. I brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle them with fresh thyme leaves. I bake the bites for 12 to 15 minutes until they are puffed and golden brown, then serve them warm.

Servings and Timing

I get about 12 bites from this recipe. The total time is 30 minutes, with around 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of baking, which makes it easy to fit into any entertaining schedule.

Variations

I sometimes swap the cranberry sauce for fig jam or apricot preserves when I want a different flavor. For a slightly sweeter finish, I like adding a drizzle of honey after baking. When I want a crunchier topping, I sprinkle chopped nuts over the egg wash before baking.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I prefer using the oven at a low temperature so the pastry stays crisp rather than soft.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

I often assemble them ahead and keep them refrigerated, then bake just before serving.

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

I use homemade cranberry sauce frequently, and it works beautifully in this recipe.

What type of brie works best?

I prefer a firm brie so it holds its shape better while baking.

Can I freeze these bites?

I freeze them unbaked and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Do I need to remove the rind from the brie?

I usually leave it on, but I remove it if I want a smoother texture.

Can I make these without egg wash?

I can skip the egg wash, though the pastry won’t be as glossy.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

I make sure not to overfill and press the pastry edges firmly to seal.

Can I make them larger?

I cut larger pastry squares when I want fewer but more substantial bites.

Are these good at room temperature?

I enjoy them warm, but they’re still tasty once they cool slightly.

What occasions are these best for?

I make them for holidays, parties, and even casual get-togethers when I want something special.

Conclusion

I keep these cranberry brie bites in my go-to appetizer collection because they’re quick, beautiful, and always a hit. They deliver big flavor with minimal effort, making them perfect whenever I want to impress without stress.