Enchanting Cranberry-Brie Bites with Pecan Crust

Enchanting Cranberry-Brie Bites with Pecan Crust

This appetizing delight combines the tartness of cranberries and the creaminess of brie cheese, all wrapped in a nutty pecan crust, making it perfect for your holiday gathering. Each bite evokes nostalgic memories of family feasts and festive aromas, transporting you to a cozy winter wonderland.

Time: Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 18-20 minutes Total time: 38-40 minutes
Servings: 6 (serving size: 4 bites per person)
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American, Fusion

Allergens

Egg, Dairy, Wheat

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice
  • 8 oz brie cheese, cut into 1/2
  • inch cubes and chilled
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, and orange juice. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and release their juices, creating a thick sauce, about 7 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  3. Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 24 squares using a sharp knife or pizza wheel. Place the squares onto the prepared baking sheet, 2 inches apart.
  4. Brush the edges of each square with the beaten egg, mixed with water. This will help the pecan crust adhere to the pastry.
  5. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cooled cranberry sauce in the center of each puff pastry square. Top each with a chilled brie cube.
  6. In a shallow dish, mix the chopped pecans and remaining egg wash. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the exposed edges of the pastry squares, completely covering them. This will create the crust for our enchanting bites.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up around the pecan crust.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve at room temperature.

Chef’s Insight

For a more hands-on approach, consider making your own puff pastry from scratch. It may take longer, but the satisfaction of creating this enchanting dish yourself is truly rewarding.

Notes

This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to accommodate larger gatherings. Enjoy these enchanting cranberry-brie bites with your loved ones this holiday season and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Cultural or Historical Background

This appetizer combines the classic flavors of cranberries and brie cheese, which have been enjoyed during the holidays for centuries. The addition of pecans adds a touch of American culinary creativity to the dish.
Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories 380 kcal | Fat 26g (Saturated Fat 10g) | Protein 9g | Carbohydrates 34g (Fiber 4g, Sugars 20g) | Sodium 250mg