When it comes to holiday gatherings, special family dinners, or even a casual wine night, having a crowd-pleasing appetizer is a must.
These Cranberry Brie Bites check all the boxes: they’re quick, elegant, and packed with flavor. With creamy Brie, tangy cranberries, and fresh rosemary, these bites are sure to become a staple in your entertaining repertoire.
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Why You’ll Love Cranberry Brie Bites
Easy to Make: With just four ingredients and a 5-minute bake time, they’re as simple as they are impressive.
Elegant Presentation: Mini phyllo shells and fresh rosemary make these bites look fancy with minimal effort.
Flavor Perfection: Creamy Brie meets tangy cranberries, all in a crispy shell with a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Bites
Cranberry Brie Bites are so quick and simple, and honestly, practically fail proof. You will want a muffin tin to make life easier, and maybe a pair of kitchen shears.
Ingredients:
- 7 oz whole cranberries sauce (about half a can of cranberry sauce)
- 1 package mini phyllo pastry shells
- 4 oz Brie cheese (half a wheel)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your ingredients ready.
- Slice the Brie into ½-inch cubes. Aim for one piece per phyllo shell. Brie is creamy and soft, so it doesn’t need to be perfect.
- Place a cube of Brie into each mini phyllo shell, then top with about ½ teaspoon of whole cranberry sauce.
- For stability and even baking, place the filled phyllo shells into the wells of a muffin tin. This prevents any spills or tipping during baking. And if one does get damaged, it wont ruin the others.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes, or until the Brie is soft and melty.
- Top each bite with a small sprig of fresh rosemary for a festive touch. Serve warm, and watch them disappear in seconds.
Variations to Try
Swap the Cranberries: Use fig jam, apricot preserves, or even a dollop of honey for a twist on the classic.
Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added texture.
Herb Alternatives: If rosemary isn’t your favorite, try thyme or a light dusting of dried herbs.
Tips for Success
Prep Ahead: You can assemble these bites a few hours in advance and refrigerate them. Just pop them in the oven when guests arrive.
Serve Warm: They taste best fresh out of the oven, so plan to bake them just before serving.
Double the Recipe: These are always a hit, so make extra to ensure everyone gets a bite (or two!).
Perfect Pairings
These Cranberry Brie Bites pair wonderfully with:
Sparkling wine: Try Prosecco or Champagne to complement the creamy Brie.
Cocktails: A festive cranberry margarita or a rosemary gin fizz.
Chilled white wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay balances the tangy and creamy flavors.
Charcuterie Board: These are the perfect accompaniment to a charcuterie board.
Whether you’re hosting a big holiday party or looking for a quick appetizer to elevate a weeknight dinner, Cranberry Brie Bites are a fantastic choice. They’re the perfect balance of elegant and easy, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.