Brie Bites with Cranberry Crunch are the ultimate holiday appetizer: buttery, flaky puff pastry filled with creamy brie, a dollop of tangy cranberry sauce, and topped with a honey-glazed walnut crunch. These bite-sized delights strike the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and buttery—ideal for gatherings, parties, or even a cozy night in.

They not only look elegant on a serving platter, but they also come together quickly using store-bought puff pastry. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a wine night with friends, these Brie Bites are guaranteed to vanish fast.
What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?
For convenience, store-bought frozen puff pastry sheets work beautifully. Look for all-butter puff pastry if available—it gives a richer, more satisfying flavor. Be sure to thaw it properly in the fridge (not at room temp) to maintain those signature flaky layers.
Ingredients for the Brie Bites with Cranberry Crunch
Puff Pastry: The buttery, crisp shell that holds it all together. You can cut it into squares or circles depending on your style.
Brie Cheese: Mild, creamy, and perfectly melty when baked. Slice off the rind if preferred, though it’s edible and softens nicely.
Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or a high-quality store-bought version. The tartness balances the richness of the cheese.
Chopped Walnuts: Toasted for extra flavor and crunch—they add texture and an earthy note.
Honey: Lightly drizzled over the walnuts for a sweet glaze that caramelizes in the oven.
Fresh Rosemary (optional): Adds visual appeal and a subtle herbal aroma. Not necessary, but lovely.
How To Make the Brie Bites with Cranberry Crunch
Step 1: Prep the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly and cut into 2-inch squares or use a round cutter for a circular shape. Press each piece gently into a mini muffin tin.
Step 2: Add the Brie
Cut the brie into small cubes, about 3/4-inch each. Place a cube into each pastry shell.
Step 3: Add Cranberry Sauce
Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of cranberry sauce over the brie. Don’t overload—a little goes a long way!
Step 4: Top with Walnut Crunch
Mix chopped walnuts with a drizzle of honey. Spoon a bit of the walnut mixture on top of the cranberry layer.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 13–16 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed. Let them cool slightly before removing.

Serving and Storing Brie Bites with Cranberry Crunch
Serve these bites warm for ultimate gooey, cheesy joy, but they’re still delightful at room temperature. If you’re preparing ahead, bake them fully and refrigerate. Reheat in a 300°F oven for about 8 minutes until warmed through.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.
What to Serve With Brie Bites with Cranberry Crunch?
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
The saltiness of the prosciutto plays nicely with the sweet-savory brie bites.
A Sparkling Wine or Champagne
Bubbles cut through the richness and elevate the flavors.
A Festive Charcuterie Board
Add grapes, cured meats, and olives for a complete appetizer spread.
Apple Slices with Cinnamon
The fresh crunch and natural sweetness pairs beautifully with cranberry and brie.
Stuffed Mushrooms
Hearty and umami-rich, these balance the lightness of the puff pastry.
Mini Caprese Skewers
Fresh basil, tomato, and mozzarella offer a refreshing counterpoint.
Spiced Pecans or Candied Nuts
Great for a crunch contrast and flavor tie-in with the walnuts.
Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Roasty, tangy sprouts play well with rich, sweet-savory appetizers.
Want More Appetizer Ideas with a Twist?
If you love these Brie Bites with Cranberry Crunch, you’ll definitely want to try these other savory-sweet creations:
- Taco Ranch Bites for a bold Tex-Mex kick.
- Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes with gooey cheese and a hearty crust.
- Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly for a spicy-sweet experience.
- Cream Cheese Olive Spread when you’re craving something creamy and briny.
- Green Olive Dip if you’re after a bold, Mediterranean flavor punch.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with rosemary sprigs? Toast the walnuts longer? Try a different jam?
I love hearing your tasty tweaks. Share your tips and tag @chefalchemy so we can celebrate your kitchen wins together!
Explore more beautifully curated bite-sized delights and party food ideas on ChefAlchemy’s Recipes—your next crowd-pleaser is just a click away!
Brie Bites with Cranberry Crunch
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
If you’re searching for a show-stopping, quick appetizer for your next party or holiday gathering, these Brie Bites with Cranberry Crunch are a must. These savory-sweet puff pastry bites are filled with creamy brie, topped with a touch of tangy cranberry sauce, and finished with a honey-glazed walnut crunch. They’re golden, flaky, and packed with irresistible flavor. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner party starters, Christmas appetizers, or finger food ideas for entertaining, this easy recipe checks all the boxes and brings elegance without the fuss.
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
4 ounces brie cheese, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
1/4 cup cranberry sauce
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon honey
optional fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
2. Roll out puff pastry and cut into 2-inch squares. Press each square into the mini muffin tin.
3. Add a cube of brie into each pastry cup.
4. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of each brie cube.
5. In a bowl, mix chopped walnuts with honey. Top each bite with a small spoonful of walnut mixture.
6. Bake for 13–16 minutes or until puff pastry is golden and brie is melted.
7. Cool slightly before removing from the tin. Garnish with rosemary if desired.
Notes
For the flakiest result, keep the puff pastry cold until ready to use.
You can substitute cranberry sauce with fig jam or raspberry preserves for a twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: easy appetizer, puff pastry bites, holiday appetizer, brie and cranberry, quick finger food
