Festive Cranberry Brie Bites

These adorable cranberry brie bites transform simple ingredients into a stunning appetizer that always disappears first at parties. The combination of flaky crescent dough, creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and aromatic rosemary creates perfect little flavor bombs that look like you spent hours in the kitchen.

I first made these for a Thanksgiving appetizer when I needed something quick but impressive. My mother-in-law asked for the recipe before dinner was even served, and now they've become our family's signature holiday starter.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour for dusting the work surface and preventing sticking
• Crescent dough sheet 8 ounces creates the perfect flaky base for these bites
• Brie cheese 8 ounce wheel provides that luxurious creamy center that melts beautifully
• Whole berry cranberry sauce 1 cup offers the perfect sweet-tart contrast to the rich cheese
• Fresh rosemary sprigs add an aromatic finishing touch and festive appearance

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the oven and muffin tin

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Thoroughly spray a 24-count mini muffin tin with cooking spray, making sure to coat the sides of each cup. This prevents any cheese from sticking during baking.

Prepare the crescent dough

Lightly dust your counter or cutting board with all-purpose flour. Roll out the crescent dough sheet until it forms an even rectangle. If using perforated crescent rolls instead, firmly pinch all the seams together to create one solid sheet of dough.

Cut and shape the dough

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, divide the dough into 24 equal squares. Place each square into a muffin tin cavity, gently pressing down in the center to create a small cup shape. Allow the corners to extend slightly above the rim.

Add the cheese

Cut the brie wheel into 24 small pieces approximately 1/2-inch in size. If possible, include some of the rind in each piece for authentic flavor. Place one piece of brie in the center of each dough cup.

Add the cranberry sauce

Spoon a generous amount about 1-2 teaspoons of whole berry cranberry sauce over each brie piece. The cranberry sauce will slightly melt and mix with the brie during baking for a delicious flavor combination.

Add the rosemary garnish

Cut small 1/2-inch pieces from fresh rosemary sprigs and place one atop each bite. The rosemary not only looks festive but infuses a subtle aromatic flavor during baking.

Bake to golden perfection

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the crescent dough turns light golden brown and the cheese melts completely. The cranberry sauce will bubble slightly when done.

The fresh rosemary is truly what elevates these bites from good to spectacular. My aunt once tried making them with dried rosemary and while still tasty, they lacked that wonderful aromatic quality that makes people ask what smells so amazing when they walk in the door.

Make-Ahead Options

These cranberry brie bites can be prepared in advance to make entertaining easier. Assemble them completely in the muffin tin, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time since they'll be starting from cold. They taste just as delicious as when made fresh.

Simple Substitutions

While this recipe is perfect as written, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Instead of cranberry sauce, try fig jam, raspberry preserves, or even a savory option like caramelized onions. The brie can be swapped for camembert or even a creamy goat cheese. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle with honey just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These cranberry brie bites are best served warm, about 5-10 minutes after coming out of the oven. This allows the cheese to remain melty but not burn your guests' mouths. Arrange them on a festive platter with additional fresh rosemary sprigs for decoration. They pair beautifully with champagne or prosecco for holiday gatherings, or a crisp white wine for casual entertaining.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I make these Cranberry Brie Bites ahead of time?

You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for the best results. Alternatively, you can bake them earlier in the day and reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

→ What can I substitute for cranberry sauce?

Fig jam, raspberry preserves, or apple butter make excellent substitutes for cranberry sauce. Each will create a different flavor profile while maintaining the sweet-tart balance with the brie cheese.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese instead of brie?

Yes! Camembert works as a direct substitute, while goat cheese or cream cheese offer different but complementary flavors. For a stronger option, try blue cheese, though you may want to use less due to its intense flavor.

→ How do I store leftover Cranberry Brie Bites?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. They won't be quite as crispy as fresh, but still delicious.

→ What herbs can I use instead of rosemary?

Fresh thyme makes an excellent substitute for rosemary. You could also use a small sage leaf or omit the herb altogether and add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for texture and flavor.

→ Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?

Absolutely! Puff pastry makes a delicious alternative to crescent dough. Cut it into similar-sized squares and proceed with the recipe as written. The baking time may vary slightly, so watch for golden-brown edges.