Picture this: the warm aroma of buttery pastry mingled with the sweet-tart scent of cranberry sauce wafting through your kitchen. Nothing screams the holidays quite like the indulgent combination of creamy Brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and golden, flaky pastry. Mini Pastry Wrapped Cranberry Baked Brie is a bite-sized twist on a classic favorite, perfect for entertaining or simply treating yourself. This recipe takes the intimidation out of gourmet appetizers and delivers stunning results with minimal effort.
Let’s dive into why this Cranberry and Brie baked cheese appetizer recipe is bound to become your go-to holiday crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe uses store-bought puff pastry, saving you time without compromising on taste.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of buttery pastry, creamy Brie, and sweet cranberry sauce is universally loved.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with different fillings or toppings to suit your taste.
- Visually Stunning: These golden bites add a touch of elegance to any appetizer spread.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual wine night, these mini pastries are always a hit.
Table of Contents
Nutrition Information:
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Ingredients List:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 ounces), cut into small chunks
- 1/3 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 egg, beaten
- Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish
Ingredients and Substitutions
1. Puff Pastry:
- Store-bought puff pastry is convenient and works perfectly. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade puff pastry adds an extra touch.
2. Brie Cheese:
- Creamy Brie is the star of this recipe. For a stronger flavor, substitute with Camembert or even goat cheese.
3. Cranberry Sauce:
- Use homemade cranberry sauce for a fresher taste. In a pinch, a good-quality store-bought option works just as well.
4. Optional Toppings:
- Add crunch with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or sprinkle with fresh thyme for a savory twist.
How to Make Mini Pastry Wrapped Cranberry Baked Brie (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Thaw the puff pastry as per package instructions. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking and ensure even thickness.
Step 2: Assemble the Pastries
- Cut the puff pastry into 12 equal squares. Place a chunk of Brie and a teaspoon of cranberry sauce in the center of each square. Fold up the corners and pinch the edges to seal.
Step 3: Egg Wash for a Golden Finish
- Brush each pastry with beaten egg. This step ensures a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Arrange the pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes or until puffed and golden.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with optional toppings for added flavor and presentation.
Expert Tips for Success
- Keep the Puff Pastry Cold: Warm pastry becomes sticky and hard to work with. Chill it if it gets too soft during preparation.
- Use High-Quality Brie: Since Brie is the centerpiece, opt for a creamy, good-quality brand.
- Seal Pastry Properly: Ensure the edges are pinched tightly to prevent filling from leaking out during baking.
- Don’t Overfill: A small amount of cranberry sauce goes a long way to avoid overflow.
Variations and Customizations
- Savory Twist: Replace cranberry sauce with caramelized onions or fig jam for a savory flavor profile.
- Herbal Infusion: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme inside the pastry for an earthy touch.
- Sweet and Nutty: Sprinkle chopped nuts or drizzle honey on top for added texture and sweetness.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with Camembert, blue cheese, or even Gouda for different flavors.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage:
- Store leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these pastries with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling champagne.
- Serve alongside a charcuterie board for a complete appetizer spread.
- Add fresh fruit like grapes or apple slices for a refreshing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How to make Mini Pastry Wrapped Cranberry Baked Brie?
- A: Simply wrap chunks of Brie and cranberry sauce in puff pastry, brush with egg wash, and bake until golden.
Q: Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
- A: Yes! Assemble the pastries, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them fresh before serving.
Q: What’s the best substitute for Brie cheese?
- A: Camembert, goat cheese, or even cream cheese can work as substitutes.
Q: Can I freeze these pastries?
- A: Yes, freeze unbaked pastries on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Related Recipes
- Baked Brie with Fig Jam: A classic appetizer perfect for any occasion.
- Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites: A similar recipe with a twist in presentation.
- Goat Cheese and Caramelized Onion Tartlets: A savory option for cheese lovers.
- Pecan Cranberry Cheese Ball: Another crowd-pleasing holiday appetizer.
Conclusion
Mini Pastry Wrapped Cranberry Baked Brie combines the richness of creamy cheese with the tang of cranberry sauce, all encased in buttery pastry. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or looking for an easy yet impressive appetizer, this recipe covers you. Its versatility and elegance make it a staple for any occasion.
So why wait? Gather ingredients, preheat the oven, and experience the joy of baking these delightful mini pastries. Trust us, your guests will be asking for the recipe!
Mini Pastry Wrapped Cranberry Baked Brie
Ingredients
- 1 Sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 ounces), cut into small chunks
- ⅓ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 egg, beaten
- chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish Optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 12 equal squares.
- Place a chunk of Brie in the center of each square, followed by a teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
- Fold the corners of the pastry up to enclose the filling, pinching edges to seal.
- Brush each pastry with beaten egg to ensure a golden finish.
- Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry stays cold before baking for the best puff.
- Brie can be substituted with Camembert for a different flavor profile.