There’s something undeniably festive about the combination of sweet and savory flavors, especially when they come together in a simple bite-sized treat. Enter my go-to appetizer: Cranberry Brie Bites. These little delights are not only a showstopper at any gathering, but they also offer a delightful contrast of gooey brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and a hint of citrus from orange marmalade—each bite melts in your mouth!
The best part? They come together in just under 30 minutes! Whether you’re looking to impress family during the holidays or just want a tasty snack on hand, these bites make homemade magic easy. I still remember the first time I served them at a potluck; the way they vanished in minutes was both gratifying and deliciously surprising. Just imagine your guests reaching for more, enchanted by the warm, floral aroma of rosemary mingling with the sweet notes of orange. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with these irresistible Cranberry Brie Bites!
Why will you love Cranberry Brie Bites?
Quick and Easy: You’ll delight in how simple these bites are to whip up in just 28 minutes.
Flavor Explosion: The savory brie combined with sweet cranberry sauce and zesty orange marmalade is a match made in culinary heaven.
Impressive Presentation: Their bite-sized elegance makes them the perfect eye-catching appetizer for any gathering or holiday party.
Versatile Treat: Customize with your favorite nuts or herbs to make them uniquely yours!
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone from foodies to picky eaters will rave about these scrumptious bites!
Elevate your culinary repertoire and impress your guests with this delightful treat!
Cranberry Brie Bites Ingredients
• Discover the joy of making these delightful Cranberry Brie Bites at home!
For the Dough
- Crescent roll dough – The fluffy base that holds all your delicious fillings.
- Flour – Dust the surface to prevent sticking while rolling out your dough.
For the Filling
- Brie cheese – Choose a good quality Brie for that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Orange marmalade – Adds a splash of citrus sweetness that balances out the tartness of the cranberries.
- Whole cranberry sauce – Use this for a burst of tart flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
For the Crunch
- Chopped pistachios, pecans, or walnuts – Choose your favorite nut to add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
For Garnish
- Fresh rosemary or candied orange pieces – These not only enhance presentation but add a hint of nature’s aroma that ties everything together!
How to Make Cranberry Brie Bites
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Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 24-count mini-muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your bites come out easily.
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Prepare the brie by cutting it into 1-inch squares and setting them aside in the refrigerator to keep them firm until needed.
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Mix the orange marmalade and cranberry sauce in a small bowl, combining their sweet and tangy flavors for a luscious filling.
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Flour a flat surface lightly, then roll out the crescent dough into a rectangle, pinching the seams to make it uniform. Cut it into 24 equal squares.
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Place the dough squares into the prepared muffin cups. Top each with a square of brie, a teaspoon of the orange-cranberry mixture, and a sprinkle of chopped nuts, finishing with a tiny sprig of rosemary for that aromatic touch.
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Slide the muffin pan into the oven and bake for 10-13 minutes, until the bites are golden brown and the dough is fully cooked.
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Cool for 5-10 minutes. Then, serve warm for the best experience of gooey deliciousness!
Optional: Garnish with candied orange pieces for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Cranberry Brie Bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (mixing the orange marmalade with cranberry sauce) and cut the brie up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The dough can also be portioned into squares and refrigerated. When you’re ready to serve, just place the dough in the muffin cups, add the filling and brie, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll save time during your busy day while still delivering that warm, gooey goodness everyone loves—making your gatherings just as delicious and stress-free!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Brie Bites
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Cranberry Brie Bites fresh out of the oven for the best taste. If leftovers exist, they can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Keep any remaining bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best flavor, reheat them gently in the oven.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked bites by placing them on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen!
Reheating: To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they come out gooey and delicious!
What to Serve with Cranberry Brie Bites?
Create a delightful spread that will leave your guests raving about your culinary skills!
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Fresh Arugula Salad: A peppery salad adds a wonderful contrast to the richness of the bites, balancing flavors beautifully. Toss with a lemon vinaigrette for a zesty touch.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness and vibrant color complement the savory elements perfectly, making your table visually appealing and delicious.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and warm breadsticks offer a comforting texture that pairs wonderfully with the elegant flavors of the Cranberry Brie Bites. Dip them right into the cranberry sauce!
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Sparkling Apple Cider: This drink brings in a festive vibe, with its sweet yet tart flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese. It’s a fun alternative to wine.
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Cranberry Sauce: Serve alongside your bites for an extra kick of flavor! The sauce harmonizes with the bites’ filling, enhancing each delectable mouthful.
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Mini Quiches: These savory treats add variety to your appetizer spread, showcasing a different filling but still keeping with that cozy, homey feel.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: End your meal on a sweet note! The juicy, fresh strawberries contrast beautifully with the rich flavors of the bites.
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Cheese Platter: Offer an assortment of cheeses to complement the Brie, providing guests with an array of textures and flavors to enjoy between bites.
Mix and match these suggestions for an unforgettable experience that’ll have everyone coming back for more!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Brie Bites
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Dough Handling: Take care when rolling out the crescent dough; too much flour can make it tough. Lightly dust your surface to ensure a tender bite.
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Chill the Brie: Keeping the Brie cheese in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it helps maintain its structure, ensuring it doesn’t melt too quickly during baking.
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Mix it Up: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or even add in some fresh herbs like thyme for added flavor. This will make your Cranberry Brie Bites even more unique!
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Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the oven as baking times can vary. Remove them when they’re golden brown, as underbaking can lead to doughy bites.
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Perfect Prepping: If making ahead, prepare the bites up to the baking step and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving for the best results!
Cranberry Brie Bites Variations
Feel free to play around with the ingredients to create your personalized twist on this delightful recipe!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the crescent roll dough with gluten-free phyllo dough for the same flaky texture without the gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your orange-cranberry mixture for a fiery surprise that elevates the flavor profile.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked gouda instead of Brie for a robust twist that marries well with the sweetness of the cranberry sauce. The creaminess remains, but the flavor deepens delightfully.
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Herb Infusion: Swap rosemary for fresh thyme or sage to introduce an aromatic twist, creating a new layer of flavor that’s perfect for herb lovers.
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Vegan: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and vegan crescent dough to keep these bites plant-based while still rich and satisfying.
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Nut-Free: Omit the chopped nuts and substitute with sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch without the allergens—delicious and safe for everyone!
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Fruitful Addition: Add a thin slice of fresh pear or apple atop the Brie before adding the cranberry mixture for a refreshing crunch that enhances the sweetness.
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Savory Blend: Experiment by mixing in a bit of caramelized onions into the cranberry sauce for a savory-sweet medley that turns every bite into a burst of flavor.
Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe FAQs
What type of Brie cheese should I use?
Absolutely, you’ll want to choose a good quality Brie! Look for a smooth, creamy texture without any dark spots or an overly strong smell. A wheel that feels slightly soft to the touch and has a fresh, mild aroma is ideal for these Cranberry Brie Bites.
How should I store leftover Cranberry Brie Bites?
After enjoying your bites, if there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat them gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to bring back that gooey goodness!
Can I freeze Cranberry Brie Bites?
Yes! I often make a big batch to freeze. To do this, prepare the bites but don’t bake them yet. Place the unbaked bites on a baking sheet until they are solid; then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F for about 15-18 minutes.
What should I do if my dough tears while rolling?
No worries, it happens! Simply use your fingers to pinch the torn areas back together gently. If you’re having trouble, use a little extra flour on your surface as you roll, but not too much—this keeps the bites tender!
Are Cranberry Brie Bites suitable for people with nut allergies?
Very! If you’re serving someone with nut allergies, you can simply omit the nuts altogether or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch without the allergens. The bites will still turn out deliciously without compromising on flavor!
How can I make Cranberry Brie Bites more festive?
To make your bites even more special, consider adding festive garnishes like finely chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze just before serving. This adds an elegant touch that can truly impress your guests!
Delicious Cranberry Brie Bites Ready in Just 28 Minutes!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 24-count mini-muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Prepare the brie by cutting it into 1-inch squares and setting them aside in the refrigerator.
- Mix the orange marmalade and cranberry sauce in a small bowl.
- Flour a flat surface lightly, then roll out the crescent dough into a rectangle, pinching the seams to make it uniform. Cut it into 24 equal squares.
- Place the dough squares into the prepared muffin cups. Top each with a square of brie, a teaspoon of the orange-cranberry mixture, and a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
- Bake for 10-13 minutes, until the bites are golden brown.
- Cool for 5-10 minutes and serve warm.