Spiced Cranberry Brie Bites are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire. With flaky pastry, creamy Brie, and a tangy cranberry sauce, these bites are a festive treat that will disappear fast.
Crescent roll dough forms the base of these bites, offering a buttery, flaky texture that cradles the filling perfectly. The cranberry sauce brings a tart sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy Brie cheese, while the spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—add warmth and depth. Sliced almonds provide a pleasant crunch, and a drizzle of honey ties everything together with a touch of sweetness.
These bites are fantastic served as a starter before a hearty roast dinner or alongside a cheese and charcuterie board. They also pair well with a glass of sparkling wine or a festive cocktail, enhancing their holiday flavors.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your bites will bake evenly and get that golden brown finish. Next, unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 16 triangles. You'll be using each triangle to create a little pastry shell, so press each one gently into the cups of a mini muffin tin. This step is where you can have a little fun—don't worry if they're not perfect, they'll taste fantastic either way!
In a small bowl, mix the cranberry sauce with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This combination of spices really elevates the cranberry sauce, giving it a holiday vibe that's hard to resist. Spoon about a teaspoon of this spiced sauce into each pastry shell. Top the sauce with a cube of Brie cheese—just enough to melt beautifully without overflowing.
Now, sprinkle some sliced almonds on top of the Brie in each cup. These will toast up nicely in the oven, adding a delightful crunch. Pop the tray into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 10-12 minutes. You're looking for the pastry to turn golden brown and the Brie to be melted and bubbly.
Once they're out of the oven, drizzle a bit of honey over the top of each bite while they're still warm. Trust me, this step is worth it! Let them cool slightly before serving, as the Brie will be hot and gooey.