Cranberry Brie Bites are the epitome of elegance combined with simplicity, making them the perfect appetizer for any occasion. I remember the first time I served these delightful little bites at a holiday gathering; they disappeared within minutes! The rich, creamy brie enveloped in flaky crescent dough, paired with the tart sweetness of cranberry sauce, creates an irresistible flavor profile that leaves guests coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a festive celebration or just want to impress at a casual get-together, these bites are sure to be a hit.
Why you’ll love this dish
These Cranberry Brie Bites are not just delicious; they’re incredibly quick and easy to make. With only a handful of ingredients and a cooking time of just 15 minutes, they fit perfectly into busy schedules. They’re an excellent choice for holiday parties, family gatherings, or game day celebrations. Plus, the combination of flavors—creamy, sweet, and nutty—appeals to a wide range of palates, making them kid-approved and perfect for all ages.
"Delicious little bites that are simple to make! Everyone loved them at our Christmas party!"
Preparing Cranberry Brie Bites
Making these bites is straightforward, and it provides an instant sense of accomplishment. This recipe involves a few simple steps: prep your ingredients, fill your crescent cups, and bake until golden. Here’s how it all comes together.
Gather these items
To whip up your own Cranberry Brie Bites, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 package of crescent roll dough
- 1 wheel of brie cheese
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for topping
Feel free to get creative with the toppings! If you’re not a fan of nuts, you can easily skip them or substitute with dried fruits for an extra touch of sweetness.
Step-by-step instructions
Here’s how to prepare these delicious little bites:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
- Place each triangle in a greased muffin tin, pressing the dough down to form a cup.
- Cut the brie cheese into small pieces and place one piece in each crescent cup.
- In a small bowl, mix the cranberry sauce with the orange zest and spoon it over the brie in each cup.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts on top for added texture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving to give them a chance to set.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving these Cranberry Brie Bites is as straightforward as making them. Simply remove them from the muffin tin, place them on a beautiful serving platter, and garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an attractive finish. They pair beautifully with a light salad or a charcuterie board filled with assorted cheeses, fruits, and crackers.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftover Cranberry Brie Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they’re warmed through, maintaining that delightful flaky texture.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, use room-temperature brie to ensure it melts evenly. If you’re short on time, you can easily substitute homemade cranberry sauce with store-bought variety. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese—goat cheese or sharp cheddar can bring exciting new flavors.
Creative twists
Want to switch things up? There are plenty of delicious variations to try:
- Swap the cranberry sauce for fig jam or sweet apple chutney for a different flavor profile.
- Experiment with different zest, such as lime or lemon, for a fresh twist.
- For a savory version, include sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions in the mix.
Common questions
How long does it take to make these bites?
Preparation and baking take about 20-25 minutes in total.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them a few hours in advance and bake them just before serving.
What can I use instead of crescent roll dough?
You can use puff pastry or even phyllo dough if you’re looking for a different texture.
Are these bites suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, simply use gluten-free crescent roll dough to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Cranberry Brie Bites are not just a treat for the tastebuds; they also offer a delightful culinary experience that brings people together. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to impress!
Print
Cranberry Brie Bites
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elegant and simple appetizer of creamy brie enveloped in flaky crescent dough with tart cranberry sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 package of crescent roll dough
- 1 wheel of brie cheese
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
- Place each triangle in a greased muffin tin, pressing the dough down to form a cup.
- Cut the brie cheese into small pieces and place one piece in each crescent cup.
- In a small bowl, mix the cranberry sauce with the orange zest and spoon it over the brie in each cup.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts on top for added texture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For best results, use room-temperature brie to ensure it melts evenly. You can assemble them a few hours in advance and bake them just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American