Cranberry brie bites recipe

Cranberry Brie Bites offer an irresistible blend of creamy brie, tangy cranberry-orange sauce, and a crunchy sprinkle of nuts, all nestled into golden crescent cups. These delicious, bite-sized appetizers are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to holiday gatherings, parties, or even a cozy night in. Their beautiful presentation, thanks to a garnish of fresh rosemary or candied orange, makes them an eye-catching addition to any table.

The recipe is quick to put together, with only 15 minutes of prep time, so you can spend more time enjoying the company of family and friends rather than laboring in the kitchen. The creamy, mild flavor of the brie balances perfectly with the cranberry’s tartness and the zesty orange marmalade, while the nuts provide a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, Cranberry Brie Bites are easy to make and guarantee to impress. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have an appetizer that’s both visually stunning and utterly delicious. Read on to learn how to bring this delightful treat to life!

Ingredients That Make These Cranberry Brie Bites Shine

  • Crescent roll dough – Creates a flaky, buttery cup that holds all the delicious fillings together.
  • Brie cheese – Adds creamy richness with a mild flavor that pairs well with cranberry and orange.
  • Cranberry sauce (whole berry) – Brings a sweet and tangy contrast that complements the brie.
  • Orange marmalade – Adds a hint of citrusy brightness to the cranberry sauce for extra depth.
  • Chopped nuts (pistachios, pecans, or walnuts) – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor, enhancing the overall texture.
  • Fresh rosemary or candied orange pieces – Provides a fragrant and festive garnish for a beautiful finish.

How to Make These Perfect Cranberry Brie Bites

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan.
  2. Cut the brie into 1-inch squares and place in the refrigerator to keep it firm until needed.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the cranberry sauce and orange marmalade until smooth and well-blended.
  4. On a floured surface, roll out the crescent dough to an even rectangle, pinching any seams together, then cut into 24 equal squares.
  5. Press each dough square into a mini muffin cup, forming a small cup. Place a piece of brie in each dough cup, then add a teaspoon of the cranberry-orange mixture on top.
  6. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and garnish with a sprig of rosemary or a small piece of candied orange.
  7. Bake for 10–13 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden and fully baked. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving warm.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Brie Bites Every Time

  • Use cold brie: Chilling the brie before cutting keeps it from becoming too soft and ensures it melts evenly in each bite.
  • Avoid overfilling: A small amount of cranberry-orange sauce goes a long way, so stick to about a teaspoon per cup to prevent overflow.
  • Choose your nuts: Pistachios add a festive color, while pecans or walnuts add a hearty, earthy taste. Pick what suits your gathering!
  • Play with the garnish: Fresh rosemary adds a subtle pine-like fragrance, perfect for the holidays, while candied orange gives a sweeter finish and extra color.

Variations to Try

For a different take, you can swap the crescent dough for puff pastry, which creates an even flakier, more delicate bite. Puff pastry also holds up well for make-ahead preparation, letting you reheat them right before serving without losing the crunch. You can also experiment with flavored jams, such as apricot or fig, in place of orange marmalade for a unique twist.

Storing and Reheating Cranberry Brie Bites

Leftover bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. If you’re planning to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Place the cooled bites in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for several minutes until warmed through.

Cranberry Brie Bites are the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and flaky, making them an ideal addition to any festive spread. Try them for your next gathering and watch them disappear!