Candied Pecan Cranberry Brie Bites

Delicious Candied Pecan Cranberry Brie Bites served on a platter

Table of Contents

Candied Pecan Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors nestled in flaky pastry. These bite-sized treats serve as the perfect appetizer for any gathering, especially during the holiday season. With a crispy exterior and a melty, creamy brie interior, each bite bursts with the goodness of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, making them irresistible to guests. Let’s dive into the details of creating these delicious morsels!

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 12 bites
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 150
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Candied Pecan Cranberry Brie Bites

These Candied Pecan Cranberry Brie Bites are not just another appetizer; they are an experience. The combination of creamy Brie cheese with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans creates a harmony of flavors that dance on your palate. Their golden, flaky pastry shell adds a delightful texture to each bite. Perfect for holiday parties, game days, or casual get-togethers, these bites are sure to impress. Plus, they are simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal effort for maximum impact!

How to Make Candied Pecan Cranberry Brie Bites

Creating these tasty bites involves a few straightforward steps that yield impressive results. Follow along as we guide you through each stage of making these delicious treats.

Ingredients:

  • 1 package of puff pastry sheets
  • 8 oz Brie cheese
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  • Step 1: Preparation

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into squares, suitable for your muffin tin.

  • Step 2: Placement

    Place a square of puff pastry into each muffin tin, pressing it gently into the cups to form a perfect little shell for your filling.

  • Step 3: Cheese Insertion

    Cut the Brie cheese into small pieces and place a piece of cheese into each pastry cup, ensuring each one gets the creamy goodness.

  • Step 4: Fruit Mixture

    In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, chopped pecans, brown sugar, and honey. Stir occasionally until the cranberries begin to pop and the mixture thickens to a syrupy consistency.

  • Step 5: Filling

    Spoon the warm cranberry mixture over the Brie in each pastry cup, filling them generously.

  • Step 6: Egg Wash

    Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to create a beautiful golden finish when baked.

  • Step 7: Baking

    Bake your bites in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.

  • Step 8: Cooling and Garnishing

    Once baked, let the bites cool slightly before garnishing with fresh thyme for an added touch of flavor and elegance.

How to Serve Candied Pecan Cranberry Brie Bites

Serve these bites warm for the best flavor and texture. Arrange them on a platter with festive garnishes, such as sprigs of fresh thyme or cranberries. They make an enticing addition to any holiday table or cocktail party spread. Consider pairing them with a glass of sparkling wine or apple cider to enhance the flavors.

How to Store Candied Pecan Cranberry Brie Bites

If you have any bites left, allow them to cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

Expert Tips for Perfect Candied Pecan Cranberry Brie Bites

  • Use fresh, high-quality Brie for the best creaminess.
  • If you like a sweeter filling, add a touch more honey or maple syrup to the cranberry mixture.
  • Feel free to substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
  • Experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon to the cranberry mixture for a warming spice.
  • Always watch the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary; remove them when they are golden brown.

Delicious Variations

  • Savory Spinach and Feta Bites: Replace the cranberry mixture with sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a savory twist.
  • Apple Crisp Bites: Substitute cranberries with chopped apples mixed with brown sugar and cinnamon for a sweet autumnal flavor.
  • Add Some Heat: Incorporate a dash of red pepper flakes into the cranberry mixture for an unexpected spicy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use frozen puff pastry?
    Yes! Thaw your frozen puff pastry in the refrigerator overnight before use for the best results.

  • Can I make these ahead of time?
    Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and pastry cups ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving for the freshest taste.

  • What if I can’t find Brie cheese?
    Camembert cheese works as a suitable substitute if you can’t find Brie.

  • Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
    While fresh cranberries give a tart flavor and juicy texture, dried cranberries can work in a pinch; just soak them in warm water for a few minutes before using.

  • How do I know when the bites are done?
    They are done when the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the filling is bubbly.

Conclusion

Candied Pecan Cranberry Brie Bites are a perfect companion for festive gatherings, bringing warmth and deliciousness to your table. Their delightful combination of textures and flavors is sure to leave everyone asking for more. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the joy these bites bring to your friends and family! Happy cooking!

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Candied Pecan Cranberry Brie Bites


  • Author: lydia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 bites 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delightful bite-sized appetizers featuring a crispy pastry shell filled with melty brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package of puff pastry sheets
  • 8 oz Brie cheese
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into squares.
  2. Place a square of puff pastry into each muffin tin, pressing it gently into the cups.
  3. Cut the Brie cheese into small pieces and place a piece in each pastry cup.
  4. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, chopped pecans, brown sugar, and honey, stirring until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens.
  5. Spoon the cranberry mixture over the Brie in each pastry cup.
  6. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg.
  7. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
  8. Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh thyme.

Notes

Serve warm for the best flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bite
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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Pro Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Lydia, the passionate culinary creator behind Ninja Machine Recipes! I firmly believe that amazing food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Here at Ninja Machine Recipes, I share my favorite recipes that bring loved ones together around the dinner table – from quick weeknight solutions to special celebration treats.

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