These Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are the little bites that steal the show at every party. They are creamy, flaky, and sweet all at once, melting in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or setting up an elegant holiday table, these brie puff pastry delights make you look like a pro without the stress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of creamy brie and tart cranberry flavor.
- Made with store-bought puff pastry for quick prep.
- Ideal for holidays or anytime you need elegant appetizers.
Ingredients
Each ingredient plays a small but important role in creating these golden, irresistible puff pastry appetizers:
- Puff pastry sheets : These form the buttery, flaky base that puffs up beautifully in the oven.
- Brie cheese : The star of this brie appetizer, soft and creamy with a delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with cranberry.
- Cranberry sauce : Adds a bright, tangy sweetness to balance the richness of the brie, turning each tartlet into a mini cranberry appetizer.
- Fresh rosemary : Just a sprinkle for fragrance and a touch of festive green.
- Honey – Optional, but adds a soft golden glaze and a hint of natural sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
These pastry appetizers are so simple you’ll make them once and never need to check the recipe again.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- Cut the thawed puff pastry into 2-inch squares. Gently press each square into a muffin cup to form a small tart shell.
- Slice the brie into small cubes and place one cube inside each pastry shell.
- Spoon about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of the brie. If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle with a little honey.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the pastry turns golden brown and the brie is bubbly and melted. Remove from oven and cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use good-quality brie for the creamiest texture and flavor.
- Chill the puff pastry before baking to help it rise evenly.
- Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt before baking to enhance the brie’s flavor.
- Try a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet twist.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t overfill the tartlets, or the cranberry sauce may spill during baking.
- Avoid skipping preheating, as a hot oven is key for that flaky brie puff pastry texture.
- Don’t leave them in the pan too long after baking remove while warm to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
These brie bites are best served warm and slightly gooey. Arrange them on a white platter with sprigs of rosemary for a beautiful toast aperitif setup. Pair them with other Christmas Tree Sandwiches or some Caprese Salad Skewers for a colorful appetizer table.
If you want to go all-in on festive flavors, serve alongside Easy Honey Garlic Meatballs or a buttery Gipfeli Pastry for that warm bakery vibe.
Cranberry and Brie Tartlets
Equipment
- Mini Muffin Tin
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry thawed
- 8 oz brie cheese cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary chopped
- 2 tbsp honey optional, for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- Cut thawed puff pastry into 2-inch squares. Gently press each square into a muffin cup to form tart shells.
- Add a cube of brie into each pastry shell.
- Top with about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce. Drizzle with honey if using.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the brie is melted. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- To prepare ahead, assemble and refrigerate the tartlets. Bake just before serving.
- Avoid overfilling to prevent spillage.
- Use chilled pastry for best puff.
FAQs
Can I make Cranberry and Brie Tartlets ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, pop them into the oven for 5 minutes to reheat. This keeps the pastry crisp and the brie perfectly melted, just like fresh-baked baked brie.
Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?
Camembert or goat cheese works beautifully, but brie’s creamy texture and mild flavor really shine in these elegant appetizers. Avoid harder cheeses like cheddar—they won’t melt the same way.
How do I store leftovers?
Place any cooled tartlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To serve again, reheat in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the puff pastry appetizers soft instead of crisp.
Conclusion
Warm, flaky, and full of contrast, these Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are the definition of easy elegance. They make every occasion feel a little more special. So next time you’re setting the table, save this recipe and share it on Pinterest your guests will thank you!
