This post may contain affiliate links learn more
Looking for a quick yet elegant appetizer that will wow guests (and you!) with every bite? These Puff Pastry Brie Bites are a match made in heaven—crispy, flaky puff pastry wrapped around creamy, melty brie with a touch of tangy cranberry sauce and a crunch of walnuts. This crowd-pleasing appetizer is perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or any occasion where you want to bring a bit of extra deliciousness to the table!
Why You’ll Love These Puff Pastry Brie Bites
Not only are these Puff Pastry Brie Bites easy to make, but they also hit all the right flavor and texture notes! Here are a few reasons why this recipe deserves a spot at your next gathering:
- Quick and Simple: Using store-bought puff pastry cuts down on prep time, and the recipe requires only a handful of ingredients.
- Elegant Presentation: These bites look sophisticated, making them perfect for special occasions.
- Perfect Flavor Combo: Creamy brie, tart cranberry sauce, and crunchy walnuts create a balanced, delicious bite.
- Versatile: Swap the cranberry sauce for fig jam, apricot preserves, or honey, and customize the nuts to suit your taste.
Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps for making these irresistible bites!
Ingredients for Puff Pastry Brie Bites
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed – A versatile, buttery pastry that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- 1 wheel of brie cheese – Rich, creamy, and perfectly meltable.
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce (or fig jam) – Adds a touch of sweetness and tartness.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans) – For crunch and a hint of nuttiness.
- 1 egg, beaten – For a golden-brown, glossy finish.
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional) – Adds a pop of color and an herby note.
Necessary Tools
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Puff Pastry Brie Bites
Follow these simple steps to create your Puff Pastry Brie Bites:
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Roll Out and Cut the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to smooth any creases. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the pastry into 2-inch squares. You should end up with around 12 squares, but the exact number may vary depending on the size of your pastry sheet.
Step 3: Add the Brie and Cranberry Sauce
Place a small piece of brie cheese in the center of each puff pastry square. Top the brie with a teaspoon of cranberry sauce (or fig jam if preferred), then add a small sprinkle of chopped walnuts.
Step 4: Fold the Pastry
Bring the four corners of each puff pastry square up and over the filling, pinching at the top to form a bundle. Ensure the edges are sealed to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.
Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash
Using a pastry brush, lightly brush each pastry bite with the beaten egg. This will give the puff pastry a beautiful, golden finish when baked.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the brie bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for an extra touch of color and flavor if desired.
Serving Suggestions
These Puff Pastry Brie Bites make an excellent addition to any appetizer spread! Try serving them with:
- A fresh, crisp side salad with vinaigrette.
- A charcuterie board with assorted meats, cheeses, and fruits.
- Lightly chilled white wine or champagne for a festive pairing.
Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Brie Bites
- Thaw Puff Pastry Properly: Allow the puff pastry to thaw in the fridge to prevent it from becoming too sticky or soft.
- Keep Brie Cool: Brie can get very soft when warm, making it harder to handle. Keep it chilled until just before assembling the bites.
- Seal Well: Pinch the corners tightly to keep the cheese and sauce from oozing out during baking.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap cranberry sauce with fig jam, apricot preserves, or even honey for a different flavor profile!
Storage Instructions
While these bites are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes to re-crisp the pastry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?
Absolutely! Camembert is a good substitute, and cream cheese or goat cheese can work if you prefer a milder flavor.
What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?
No problem! Fig jam, apricot preserves, or a small drizzle of honey all make great substitutes.
Can I make these in advance?
You can assemble the bites a few hours ahead and keep them in the fridge. When ready to bake, brush with egg wash and pop them in the oven!
Nutrition Information
Each brie bite contains approximately:
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 14g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient choices.
Wrap-Up: Why Puff Pastry Brie Bites Are a Must-Try
These Puff Pastry Brie Bites are the perfect combination of flaky, creamy, tangy, and nutty. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, they’re a fantastic choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to impress guests at a holiday gathering, this appetizer will add an elegant touch and keep everyone coming back for more.
Try More Recipes Like This!
If you love these brie bites, don’t miss these similar recipes:
- Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl – The ultimate festive appetizer that combines gooey brie with cranberry in a shareable bread bowl.
- Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Flatbread – A flavorful, crowd-pleasing flatbread perfect for the holiday season.
- Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip – A creamy, tart, and golden-baked dip that’s always a hit at gatherings.
Make sure to leave a review and share your creation on Pinterest! Happy baking!
PrintPuff Pastry Brie Bites
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Puff Pastry Brie Bites are an easy, elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. A buttery puff pastry wraps around creamy brie, sweet cranberry sauce, and crunchy walnuts. They’re golden, crispy, and simply irresistible! Ready in just 35 minutes, they’re a perfect choice for holiday parties or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 wheel of brie cheese
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce (or fig jam)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 2-inch squares.
- Place a small piece of brie in the center of each pastry square. Top with a teaspoon of cranberry sauce and a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.
- Fold the corners of the puff pastry squares over the filling to create a small bundle, pinching the edges to seal securely.
- Brush the tops of the pastry bites with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden color when baked.
- Arrange the bites on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired before serving.
Notes
- Cheese Substitutions: Camembert or cream cheese can be used in place of brie for a different flavor.
- Sweet Topping Variations: Substitute cranberry sauce with fig jam, apricot preserves, or honey to switch up the flavors.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the bites a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Brush with egg wash right before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brie bite
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 130 mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg