Whether you serve them at a weekend brunch or a holiday cocktail party, you can bet these bite-sized appetizers will be a crowd pleaser. Salty brie and tart cranberry is a classic combination, and the roasted pistachios not only lend a tasty crunch, but add an additional festive pop of color.
These appetizers take only 20 minutes from start to finish, so you can prepare them minutes before your guests arrive. Serve immediately to get that signature gooey brie bite or add them to a charcuterie board along with your favorite pickles, cheeses, and preserved meats. For a fun variation, use a goat cheese brie.
Ingredients for Cranberry Brie Bites
Just four ingredients are needed to make these bites, with balanced flavors and contrasting textures that make every bite better than the last. To make cranberry brie bites, you’ll need:
- Brie round, rind removed: A creamy, buttery filling for the bites.
- Mini phyllo pastry shells: Provides a quick and easy store-bought base with a light and flaky texture.
- Whole-berry cranberry sauce: A balance of sweet-tart flavors that pairs well with the richness of the brie.
- Salted pistachios: Brings a nutty crunch and touch of saltiness to the bites.
Cranberry Brie Bites Variations
To add your own unique twist to these brie bites, consider these variations:
- Brie: Swap with Camembert for a similar creamy texture, use goat cheese brie for a fun twist, or opt for a vegan cheese alternative if preferred.
- Phyllo: Use puff pastry cups if needed or crostini for an open-faced presentation.
- Cranberry sauce: Try fig jam, apricot preserves, or raspberry preserves to suit the season.
- Pistachios: Substitute with pecans, walnuts, or almonds, or use pumpkin seeds for a nut-free variation.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic touch.
- Zest: Add a hint of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy boost.
- Sweet glaze: Drizzle with balsamic reduction, honey, or maple syrup for added depth and sweetness.
- Heat: Add a drizzle of hot honey or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Our Tips for the Best Cranberry Brie Bites
For the best cranberry brie bites, keep these tips in mind:
- Remove the rind: Be sure to remove the rind of the brie before using for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Whole-berry sauce: Opt for whole-berry for a nice textural contrast and pops of juicy berries throughout.
- Roasted or toasted nuts: Use roasted nuts or toast raw nuts before using for a deeper flavor and crunchy texture.
- Don’t overfill: Avoid overfilling the bites, which could cause the filling to bubble over the edges of the shells.
- Bake just before serving: Bake just before serving for that perfectly crisp and creamy texture.
Can I Prepare Cranberry Brie Bites Ahead?
While these bites take only moments to assemble, you can also prepare them well in advance so you’re ready to bake before guests arrive. To make them ahead, assemble the shells completely, then wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to one day or freeze for up to three months. Bake straight from the refrigerator or freezer.
What To Serve With Cranberry Brie Bites
These cranberry brie bites are the perfect appetizer to serve during family gatherings, holiday parties, or any other event. Round out your appetizer spread with a festive charcuterie board, stuffed mushrooms, prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, candied nuts, and more.
Ingredients
- 1 (7-oz.) brie round, rind removed
- 24 frozen mini phyllo pastry shells (from 2 [1.9-oz.] pkg.)
- 1/2 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce (from 1 [14-oz.] can)
- 1/3 cup roasted, salted pistachios, chopped (about 1 1/2 oz.)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut brie into 24 small pieces.
- Arrange phyllo shells on a rimmed baking sheet; place 1 brie piece in each phyllo shell. Top each shell with 1 teaspoon cranberry sauce; sprinkle evenly with pistachios.
- Bake in preheated oven until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 6 minutes. Serve immediately.
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