Dessert

Baked Cranberry Brie Recipe

ByNethan Cole November 20, 2025November 20, 2025

Introduction

Baked Cranberry Brie bites are a deliciously easy appetizer that combines creamy cheese, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and flaky puff pastry. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any cozy occasion, these little treats bring festive flavors to every bite.

This image shows small square puffs of golden, flaky pastry forming the base layer, each with multiple visible layers in a light crispy texture. On top of each pastry is a thick layer of bright red, glossy cranberry jelly with a slightly chunky texture. Sprinkled over the cranberry layer are halves of toasted pecans, adding a rich brown color and a crunchy texture. Small sprigs of fresh green rosemary decorate the top and the white marbled surface around the pastries, adding a touch of brightness to the scene. The pastries are placed closely together on a brown wooden tray, and a woman's hand is seen gently holding one piece. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
4 oz brie cheese, cut into 12 cubes
½ cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tbsp candied pecans, chopped (optional crunch)
Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional flair)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Roll out the thawed puff pastry and cut it into 12 equal squares. Press each square gently into the muffin cups to form little pastry shells.
Step 3: Place one cube of brie into each pastry cup. Spoon a small amount of cranberry sauce on top of the brie, then sprinkle with chopped candied pecans if using.
Step 4: Bake the filled pastry cups for 15–18 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 5: Let the bites cool for about 5 minutes, then garnish each with a tiny sprig of fresh rosemary before serving for a festive appearance.

Tips & Variations

For a twist, try using fig jam instead of cranberry sauce for a sweeter flavor.
Swap candied pecans for chopped walnuts or leave nuts out entirely if preferred.
Make sure your puff pastry is well chilled before rolling to help it puff up nicely in the oven.

Storage

Store leftover cranberry brie bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows several small square puff pastry bites arranged closely together on a white marbled surface. Each bite has a golden brown, flaky pastry base with visible layers and a rough texture. On top of the pastry, there is a layer of glossy, dark red cranberry sauce spread thickly, giving a shiny and slightly bumpy look. Small pieces of pecans are sprinkled on top of the sauce, adding a rough, irregular texture and a warm brown color. Tiny green rosemary sprigs are placed on or near each bite, adding a fresh contrast in color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pastry cups with brie and cranberry sauce and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just add the pecans and rosemary garnish after baking.

What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin?

You can bake the filled pastry squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet instead. Just fold up the edges slightly to create a small rim to hold the filling.

Baked Cranberry Brie Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 60 reviews

These Baked Cranberry Brie bites combine gooey, melted brie with tart cranberry sauce encased in flaky puff pastry. Topped with optional candied pecans for a delightful crunch and fresh rosemary for a festive finish, they make an irresistible appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Author: Nethan
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: 25-28 minutes
Yield: 12 bite-sized appetizers 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Puff Pastry Base

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Filling

4 oz brie cheese, cut into 12 cubes
½ cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Toppings (Optional)

2 tbsp candied pecans, chopped
Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a clean surface. Cut it into 12 equal squares, then carefully press each square into the wells of the greased mini muffin tin, forming little pastry cups.
Assemble Filling: Place one cube of brie cheese into each puff pastry cup. Spoon about a tablespoon of cranberry sauce over the brie in each cup. If using, sprinkle chopped candied pecans on top to add a sweet crunch.
Bake: Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the puff pastry turns golden brown and the brie is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Allow the bites to cool for about 5 minutes after baking. Then, garnish each with a small sprig of fresh rosemary to add a fragrant and festive touch before serving.

Notes

Thaw puff pastry sheet according to package instructions before use to ensure it is pliable.
Use high-quality brie for the creamiest texture.
Store-bought cranberry sauce works well, but homemade can add a fresher taste.
Candied pecans add a pleasant crunch and sweetness, but they are optional.
These bites are best served warm but can be reheated gently if needed.
Mini muffin tins can vary in size; ensure your pastry is cut to fit snugly for best results.

Keywords: baked brie, cranberry appetizers, holiday appetizers, puff pastry, brie cheese bites, festive appetizers, easy appetizers

Nethan Cole

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