Go Back
Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
  

  • 24 mini phyllo cups store-bought or mini tart shells
  • 8 oz 225 g brie, rind removed if desired, cut into 24 small cubes
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce homemade or high-quality jarred
  • 1 small shallot finely minced
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil for shallot
  • 1/3 cup toasted walnuts chopped (or pecans)
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves plus extra for garnish
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet.
  2. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and cook until softened and lightly golden, 4–5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, lemon juice, and thyme to make the glaze. Set aside.
  4. Place one cube of brie into each phyllo cup. Top with about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
  5. Spoon a small pinch of the caramelized shallot on top of the cranberry. Sprinkle a few toasted walnut pieces and a tiny pinch of thyme over each.
  6. Bake on the prepared sheet for 10–12 minutes or until the phyllo is golden and the brie is soft and melty. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  7. Remove from oven and immediately brush each bite lightly with the maple-thyme glaze. Finish with a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt and a small thyme leaf. Serve warm

Video

Notes

Cranberries are peak-season stars in early autumn and through winter; fresh berries or a high-quality cranberry sauce are both great choices. If you can, choose tart, fresh cranberries and sweeten them lightly with orange zest and a touch of honey to keep the flavor bright. For the cheese, a milder brie works well for a clean melt; triple cream brie is delicious if you want an ultra-luxe bite. Mini phyllo cups are convenient and make these quick; if using homemade pastry, keep them small so each is a single bite.