These Cranberry Brie Bites are a holiday showstopper! Combining creamy Brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and a hint of citrus, they’re the perfect blend of savory and sweet, all wrapped in buttery crescent dough. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or want an easy-to-make yet impressive appetizer, these bites are sure to be a hit. They’re quick to prep, bake in minutes, and taste like the holidays in every bite!
Ingredients Needed for Cranberry Brie Bites
- 1 (14 oz) can Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce – Adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
- ¼ cup orange juice – Freshly squeezed brings out the best citrus notes.
- 1 Tbsp fresh orange zest – Enhances the flavor and complements the cranberry.
- ¼ cup sugar – Adds sweetness and helps thicken the cranberry sauce.
- ¼ tsp cinnamon – Adds a warm spice for a festive touch.
- 1 (8 oz) tube crescent dough – Pillsbury crescent rolls work well, creating a light and flaky crust.
- 1 (8 oz) wheel of Brie – Soft and creamy, it pairs beautifully with the cranberry mixture.
- 1 Tbsp fresh thyme – A garnish that adds a pop of color and subtle herbal flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Brie Bites
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 24-count mini muffin tin with cooking spray.
- In a saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, orange juice, zest, sugar, and cinnamon over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Roll out the crescent dough on a floured surface or parchment paper. Slice the dough into 24 equal pieces.
- Press each piece into the greased mini muffin tin, creating a cup shape.
- Cut the Brie into small pieces and place one in each dough cup. Top with 1 tsp of the cranberry mixture.
- Sprinkle a pinch of fresh thyme over each bite and bake for 10 minutes.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors!
Why Cranberry Brie Bites are Perfect for Holiday Gatherings
These Cranberry Brie Bites make for an ideal appetizer during holiday gatherings because they’re festive, simple to prepare, and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that wows guests and suits a range of tastes. They’re easy to make in large batches, so they’re perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even holiday potlucks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bites warm from the oven as a finger-friendly appetizer. They pair well with a glass of sparkling wine or cider, adding a touch of elegance to any gathering. You can also serve them on a decorative platter with sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme for extra festive flair.
Closing Tips & Storage Instructions
For best results, serve these bites fresh from the oven. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture. You can also use any leftover cranberry sauce as a side dish or sandwich spread.
Cranberry Brie Bites Appetizer Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 14 oz can Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 1 Tbsp fresh orange zest
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 1 8 oz tube crescent dough
- 1 8 oz wheel of Brie
- 1 Tbsp fresh thyme
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 24-count mini muffin tin with cooking spray.
- In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, zest, sugar, and cinnamon. Boil, then simmer for 5 minutes until thick.
- Roll out the crescent dough and cut into 24 pieces. Place each piece in the muffin tin.
- Add a small piece of Brie to each cup, top with cranberry sauce, and sprinkle with thyme.
- Bake for 10 minutes, serve warm, and enjoy!
