Brie and cranberry puffs are little bites of joy! They combine creamy brie cheese with sweet cranberry sauce, all wrapped in flaky pastry. Perfect for any occasion!
These treats disappear fast at parties! I love how easy they are to make—just fill, fold, and bake. Who wouldn’t want a warm, cheesy puff in their hand? 🧀❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the dish. For a crisp, flaky texture, use frozen puff pastry. If you’re short on time, store-bought is convenient. You can also use phyllo dough, but that will change the texture a bit.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, camembert works well too. For a lighter option, try goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade gives a fresher taste, but store-bought is just fine! If looking for a different flavor, consider using raspberry sauce or even a fig jam.
Egg Wash: This helps give a beautiful golden color. If you prefer, you can omit the egg and brush with milk or a dairy-free milk alternative for vegans.
How Do I Ensure My Puff Pastry is Perfectly Golden?
The egg wash is key to achieving that beautiful golden color on your pastry. Just beat an egg and brush it evenly over the pastry before baking. Avoid letting the egg wash pool in any creases as this can lead to uneven browning.
- Apply the egg wash gently for even coverage.
- Don’t skip the egg wash; it makes a big difference in appearance!
- Turn on the broiler for the last minute of baking to enhance that golden hue, but watch closely to prevent burning!
Brie And Cranberry Puffs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (either homemade or store-bought)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as rosemary or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you’ll want to bake them for around 12-15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes until you can enjoy the delicious flavors of these puffs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the pastry into small squares, about 2×2 inches in size.
3. Fill the Pastry
In the center of each square, place a small cube of brie cheese. This creamy, melty cheese will create a delicious filling!
4. Form the Parcels
Carefully gather the corners of the pastry up around the cheese, pinching the edges to seal them tightly. This makes little parcels that will puff up beautifully when baked.
5. Prepare for Baking
Place the pastry parcels seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This helps them keep their shape while baking.
6. Egg Wash Time!
Crack the egg into a small bowl and beat it. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the tops of the pastry parcels with the egg wash. This step gives them a lovely golden color when baked.
7. Bake to Perfection
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You want the pastries to puff up and turn golden brown—so keep an eye on them!
8. Cool and Top
Once they’re baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. This will prevent burns when you add the topping.
9. Finish with Cranberry Sauce
Add a spoonful of cranberry sauce on top of each pastry puff. The sweetness of the sauce beautifully complements the creamy brie.
10. Garnish and Serve
For a touch of color and aroma, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, on top. Then, gather your friends or family and serve the puffs warm!
Enjoy these flaky, cheesy, and sweet bites. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Cheese Instead of Brie?
Absolutely! Camembert is a great substitute for brie as it has a similar texture and flavor. You could also try goat cheese for a tangy twist or even cheddar for a heartier option.
Can I Make These Puffs in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pastry parcels a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. They’ll need an extra minute or two in the oven if baked straight from the fridge!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Brie and cranberry puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Can I Freeze Unbaked Puff Pastry Parcels?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked parcels! Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked from frozen, but increase the baking time by a few minutes.
