Appetizers set the tone for the holiday meal, and these Thanksgiving Cranberry Brie Bites are always a showstopper. I remember the first time I served them—guests couldn’t believe something so simple could taste so elegant. With buttery puff pastry, creamy brie, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce, they combine all the best flavors of Thanksgiving in a single bite. Easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining, they’re a festive starter that disappears quickly from any holiday table.
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
8 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes
1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 tbsp honey (optional)
Fresh rosemary or thyme, for garnish
Flour, for rolling pastry
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly flour a surface and roll out puff pastry. Cut into 12 equal squares. Place each square into a greased mini muffin tin. Add a cube of brie into each pastry cup, then top with 1–2 tsp cranberry sauce. Bake for 15–18 minutes until pastry is golden and cheese is bubbly. Drizzle with honey if desired, and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme. Serve warm.
Substitutions
Use camembert instead of brie for a slightly stronger flavor. Swap cranberry sauce with raspberry preserves or fig jam. For a savory twist, add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans before baking.
Equipment
Rolling pin
Mini muffin tin
Sharp knife
Measuring spoons
Oven mitts
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to crisp pastry.
Freezer: Freeze assembled bites before baking; bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Top Tips
Work with chilled puff pastry for best results. Cut brie into uniform cubes so it melts evenly. Don’t overfill with cranberry sauce to prevent overflow. Garnish just before serving for the freshest look.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
Do I need to remove the brie rind? No, it’s edible and melts beautifully in this recipe.
Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry? Yes, layer a few sheets for a crispier texture.
What can I serve with these bites? They pair well with wine, cocktails, or alongside a holiday charcuterie board.