Cranberry Brie Bites

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These Cranberry Brie Bites are the ultimate holiday party appetizer—golden, flaky puff pastry filled with warm, melty brie cheese and a spoonful of sweet-tart cranberry sauce. They’re festive, simple to assemble, and always the first to disappear from the platter. Whether you’re entertaining for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy winter dinner, these two-bite treats will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

What makes these little bites so irresistible is the way the buttery puff pastry crisps up around the creamy brie and bright cranberry filling. Every element brings something to the table: crunch, richness, and a zing of fruity sweetness. Even better, you can prep them ahead and bake just before serving, making your life easier during those busy hosting hours.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe

These bites are deliciously indulgent while still feeling light, thanks to the contrast between melty cheese and flaky pastry. They’re versatile enough to serve at formal holiday dinners or casual gatherings, and you only need a few ingredients. Plus, they look like they came straight from a fancy bakery.

Can I Use Homemade or Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce?

Both work beautifully! If you’re making your own cranberry sauce, go for a version that’s thick and not too runny. Store-bought cranberry sauce is a reliable shortcut—just be sure it’s whole-berry, not the jellied kind. You can also mix in a little orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon for a flavor boost if you’re using canned.

Ingredients for the Cranberry Brie Bites

To bring these Cranberry Brie Bites together, you don’t need much. But each ingredient plays a key role in making every bite sing.

Puff pastry
This forms the flaky, golden base and holds everything together. Look for it in the frozen section and let it thaw before using.

Brie cheese
Brie melts like a dream and adds a luscious, creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.

Cranberry sauce
The tart sweetness contrasts beautifully with the brie. Whole-berry sauce works best for texture and flavor.

Chopped pecans (optional)
For extra crunch and a nutty finish, sprinkle chopped pecans on top. Toasted is even better.

Fresh rosemary (optional)
A tiny sprig of rosemary adds a festive, herby aroma that feels just right for the holidays.

How To Make the Cranberry Brie Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Let your puff pastry thaw if frozen, then roll it out on a floured surface. Cut into 24 even squares and press each square into a mini muffin tin cup.

Step 2: Add the Brie

Cut the brie into small cubes, about 1/2 inch each. Place one cube into the center of each pastry square.

Step 3: Spoon in the Cranberry Sauce

Add about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce over each brie cube. Don’t overfill or it may bubble over while baking.

Step 4: Top and Bake

Sprinkle with chopped pecans and a small rosemary leaf if using. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.

Step 5: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then use a spoon to carefully lift them out. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving and Storing Cranberry Brie Bites

These bites are best served warm, right out of the oven when the brie is gooey and luscious. They’re also delicious at room temperature, making them ideal for potlucks or snack tables. This recipe makes 24 mini bites, perfect for serving 8 to 10 people.

If you have leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 to 8 minutes to re-crisp the pastry and melt the cheese again.

What to Serve With Cranberry Brie Bites?

Holiday Charcuterie Board

Pair these bites with cured meats, nuts, grapes, and crackers for a stunning board.

Butternut Squash Soup

A bowl of creamy soup alongside these crispy bites makes a warm and comforting starter.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their earthy flavor complements the tang of cranberry and richness of brie.

Sparkling Wine or Champagne

The effervescence cuts through the creaminess and refreshes the palate.

Glazed Carrots

Sweet and savory, they harmonize with the festive flavors of the bites.

Spinach Salad with Citrus Dressing

A refreshing side that brightens your appetizer spread.

Deviled Eggs

Their classic flavor offers a nice contrast to the pastry and fruit.

Mulled Cider

Perfect for winter gatherings, mulled cider adds warmth and spice to your serving table.

Want More Holiday Appetizer Ideas?

If you love these Cranberry Brie Bites, try some of these other cozy, crowd-pleasing bites:

• Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf for that buttery, savory kick.
• Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons if you love sweet holiday finger foods.
• Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake with a golden top and creamy center.
• Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers that combine sweet, savory, and crunchy in every bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so you can come back to it any time.

Have you made these with a twist? Maybe added a drizzle of balsamic glaze or swapped the cranberry sauce for fig jam? Tell us in the comments below how yours turned out!

Explore beautifully curated festive bites and seasonal treats on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for holidays: Mia Recipes on Pinterest.

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