Indulge your taste buds with the irresistible combination of creamy brie and tart cranberry sauce wrapped in flaky puff pastry! These Cranberry Brie Mini Pies are the perfect bite-sized appetizers that will have your guests begging for more. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or simply treating yourself to a gourmet snack, these mini pies are sure to impress with their elegant presentation and delicious flavors. Get ready to elevate your culinary game and discover the secret to creating these delightful treats that are as easy to make as they are to devour!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 mini pies
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 wheel brie cheese
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.
- Thaw the puff pastry sheet at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes pliable but still cold.
- On a lightly floured surface, carefully roll out the puff pastry sheet to thin it slightly and ensure even cutting.
- Using a round cookie cutter or glass (approximately
- 5 inches in diameter), cut 12 circles from the puff pastry sheet.
- Gently press each pastry circle into the prepared mini muffin tin, creating a small cup shape with slightly overhanging edges.
- Cut the brie cheese into small cubes, approximately 1/2 inch in size, ensuring each mini pie will have enough cheese.
- Place a small cube of brie cheese into the center of each pastry cup.
- Top the brie with a teaspoon of cranberry sauce, being careful not to overfill.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
- Brush the exposed pastry edges with the egg wash to help them brown and become golden.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deep golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the tin for 5 minutes to set.
- Carefully remove the mini pies from the tin using a small offset spatula.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves just before serving for added aroma and visual appeal.
- Serve warm and enjoy these delightful appetizers immediately.
Tips
- Perfect Puff Pastry: Ensure your puff pastry is cold but pliable before rolling it out. This will help maintain its flaky texture during baking.
- Cheese Selection: Use a good quality brie cheese for the best flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as camembert, for a unique twist!
- Cranberry Sauce: Homemade cranberry sauce can elevate the flavor even more. Consider adding a hint of orange zest for a refreshing touch.
- Egg Wash: Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives the pastry a beautiful golden color and a glossy finish that makes your mini pies look professionally made.
- Garnishing: Fresh thyme not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve these mini pies warm for the best experience. Pair them with a glass of sparkling wine or a festive cocktail for a delightful treat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 40mg
