Mini Cranberry Brie Bites with Puff Pastry: The Ultimate Festive Appetizer You’ll Actually Crave

Let’s be honest—holiday appetizers can be hit or miss. But Mini Cranberry Brie Bites with Puff Pastry? They’re pure magic. These Cranberry Brie Bites hit that sweet-savory combo that makes everyone hover around the appetizer tray. I first made them during a chaotic Christmas Eve dinner (you know, the kind where everyone shows up an hour early). Within minutes, these flaky Brie and Cranberry Puff Pastry cups disappeared faster than I could say “don’t burn your tongue.” 😅

Imagine buttery puff pastry appetizers filled with gooey, melted brie and topped with glossy cranberry sauce—it’s a holiday appetizer masterpiece. Whether you’re prepping Christmas party food appetizers or building your Christmas charcuterie board, these mini cranberry brie bites add a little sparkle to any spread.

And the best part? They’re ridiculously easy. You don’t need to channel your inner Michelin chef. All you need is puff pastry, brie, cranberry sauce, and about 25 minutes. By the end of this post, you’ll have your new go-to Christmas appetizer recipe that feels fancy without all the stress. Let’s bake like holiday pros (or at least pretend to 😉).

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed, but still cold)
• 1 wheel of brie cheese (cut into small cubes)
• ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Fresh thyme sprigs or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• Nonstick spray or butter (for greasing the muffin tin)
• A pinch of flaky sea salt (optional but fancy 😉)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin—trust me, this makes cleanup painless.
2. Cut the puff pastry into 2-inch squares. Each square should fit nicely into the muffin tin like a tiny pastry basket.
3. Press each square into the muffin cups, letting the corners stick out for that rustic, bakery-style look.
4. Add the brie. Drop one cube into each pastry shell. Don’t overfill—it’s melty magic, not fondue. 😉
5. Spoon cranberry sauce on top of each piece of brie. A teaspoon is enough—you want that sweet-tart pop without overflow.
6. Brush edges with egg wash. This gives that golden, glossy finish that looks straight out of a cookbook.
7. Bake for 13–15 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the brie is bubbly perfection.
8. Cool slightly. Let them rest 5 minutes before removing (molten cheese + eager fingers = instant regret).
9. Garnish with thyme or rosemary. A little green makes them Instagram-worthy.
10. Serve warm. These bites taste best fresh out of the oven, but they reheat beautifully too.

Variations

Here’s where you can get creative because IMO, the Brie Puff Pastry Recipe is a blank canvas:

• Swap the cranberry sauce: Try fig jam, raspberry preserves, or apricot jelly for a twist on classic cranberry brie appetizers.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for nutty depth in your holiday appetizers.
• Go savory: Add a small dollop of caramelized onions or prosciutto under the brie—perfect for those who like their Christmas finger food ideas a little less sweet.

Serving & Tips

Serving these Mini Cranberry Brie Cups is half the fun. Here’s how to make them look like they came from a fancy caterer:

• Serve on a wooden board alongside grapes, nuts, and rosemary sprigs for a picture-perfect Christmas charcuterie board.
• Reheat like a pro: Pop them in a 325°F oven for 5 minutes—don’t microwave unless you enjoy soggy puff pastry (yikes).
• Freeze ahead: Assemble them, freeze on a tray, and bake straight from frozen during party rush hour. Yes, that hack saves lives. Or at least sanity.
• Make it mini-mini: For bite-size Xmas appetizers, cut puff pastry into 1½-inch squares and use tiny cheese cubes. Adorable + efficient.

When you set these next to your holiday party appetizers spread, people will think you hired a caterer. But nope—it’s all you, chef 😉. These easy Christmas appetizers are proof that a few good ingredients and a touch of care can transform simple into stunning.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about how Mini Cranberry Brie Bites with Puff Pastry combine everything we love about the holidays—comfort, indulgence, and just enough effort to say, “I tried.”

Every year, these mini holiday appetizers make their way back into my kitchen lineup. They pair beautifully with mulled wine, laughter, and the occasional family drama (hey, it’s Christmas). Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just here for the puff pastry, these brie and cranberry puff pastry bites will make your guests think you’ve got culinary superpowers.

So go ahead—bake, snack, and soak up that festive applause. You earned it. ✨

FAQs

Can I make Mini Cranberry Brie Bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and keep them in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake them fresh for the ultimate flaky texture. If you bake ahead, reheat in the oven to crisp them up again.

Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?

Yes, but expect a lighter, crunchier texture. Puff pastry gives that signature buttery flake, while phyllo feels more delicate. Both make excellent brie and puff pastry recipes depending on your vibe.

What’s the best cranberry sauce for this recipe?

Homemade cranberry sauce with orange zest is my favorite (that citrus zing = perfection). But if time’s tight, jarred cranberry sauce appetizers still deliver amazing flavor.

Can I serve these cold?

Technically, yes—but they taste heavenly warm. The brie firms up when cold, so if you’re serving them later, reheat gently before putting them out. Warm, gooey cheese + flaky pastry = unbeatable combo.

How do I keep them from sticking to the pan?

Nonstick spray is your best friend. You can also line the tin with mini parchment squares or silicone cups for guaranteed easy removal.

What drinks pair best with these holiday appetizers?

A crisp sparkling wine, rosé, or even apple cider complements the richness of brie and the tartness of cranberry. They also play well with mulled wine if you’re going full Christmas mode.

Can I use crescent dough instead of puff pastry?

Sure! Crescent dough gives a slightly softer texture and less dramatic “puff,” but it’s still buttery and delicious. Great for quick, no-fuss Christmas appetizers.

How long do they last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 5–7 minutes to bring back that crisp perfection.

Can I freeze Mini Cranberry Brie Bites?

Yes, and it’s a total lifesaver. Freeze unbaked bites on a tray, then store in a zip bag. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F for 15–17 minutes. Perfect for last-minute Christmas snacks for party situations.

Do these work for other holidays too?

Absolutely! Swap cranberry for raspberry or fig, and you’ve got yourself a stunning appetizer for Valentine’s Day, Easter, or even brunch parties. Basically, this brie puff pastry recipe works year-round.