There is something utterly magical about the combination of creamy brie, tart cranberry sauce, and flaky puff pastry that makes the Holiday Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Tartlets Recipe a must-have at any festive gathering. These little golden bundles are bursting with festive flavors and textures—from the crunchy nuts and fresh herbs to the warm, spiced honey drizzle. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply craving an elegant appetizer, these tartlets deliver a perfect balance of sweet and savory that will have everyone asking for the recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Holiday Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Tartlets Recipe is simpler than it looks, yet each component plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible harmony of flavors and textures. From flaky puff pastry providing the perfect crispy base to the creamy brie that melts beautifully, every ingredient adds a special touch that brings this dish to life.
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed: This flaky, buttery dough forms the crisp and golden tartlet shells.
- 2 small brie wheels (6–8 oz each), rind on and chilled: Creamy and rich, the brie melts wonderfully inside the pastry pockets.
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry works best): Adds a tangy, fruity contrast with delightful texture from the berries.
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans): These provide a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor to balance the sweet and savory.
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, or sage), finely chopped: Fresh herbs lend aromatic notes that elevate the tartlets to gourmet status.
- ¼ cup honey: Adds natural sweetness and shines as the base for a delectable spiced drizzle.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: This warms the honey with a subtle spice, perfect for evoking holiday cheer.
- 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash): The egg wash ensures the puff pastry turns a beautiful golden brown while baking.
How to Make Holiday Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Tartlets Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step ensures that your tartlets bake evenly and do not stick, giving you an easy cleanup later. Getting your oven just right is key for that perfectly puffed pastry texture.
Step 2: Cut the Puff Pastry Squares
Roll out both sheets of thawed puff pastry carefully on a lightly floured surface, then cut each sheet into 8 even squares—giving you 16 total tartlets. These squares are the perfect size for individual servings and make assembling each tartlet a breeze.
Step 3: Cube the Brie
Take your chilled brie wheels and cut them into 16 cubes roughly 1 inch in size. Keeping the rind on helps the brie hold its shape as it bakes but also adds complexity to the creamy filling that melts inside the puff pastry.
Step 4: Assemble the Tartlets
Place one cube of brie in the center of each puff pastry square. Dollop about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of the brie to boost the tart’s festive flavor. Follow with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for texture and a pinch of finely chopped fresh herbs to brighten the whole bite. This layering kicks off the flavor adventure each tartlet promises.
Step 5: Shape the Tartlets
Fold the corners of each square up towards the center, either pinching them into neat little bundles or twisting them into cute tartlet shapes. The edges should be sealed tightly so none of your precious filling spills out during baking, making these as pretty as they are delicious.
Step 6: Prepare the Spiced Honey Drizzle
Mix your honey with ground cinnamon in a small bowl, then warm it slightly until smooth and combined. This cinnamon-honey drizzle will add a warm, sweet finish that complements the savory brie and tart cranberries perfectly.
Step 7: Apply Egg Wash and Bake
Brush each tartlet generously with the egg wash made by whisking an egg with a tablespoon of water. This final touch will give your puff pastry a gorgeous golden color and glossy finish. Bake the tartlets in your preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they are puffed, golden, and bubbling with melted brie inside.
Step 8: Add the Honey Drizzle and Serve
Once out of the oven and while still warm, drizzle each tartlet with your cinnamon-infused honey. This finishing touch not only looks stunning but introduces a luscious sweetness that enhances every bite.
How to Serve Holiday Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Tartlets Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like additional fresh herbs—thyme or rosemary sprigs—add a visual pop and a fresh, aromatic note as you place the tartlets on a serving platter. You can also sprinkle a bit of finely chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon for an extra festive touch.
Side Dishes
These tartlets pair beautifully with crisp green salads dressed in light vinaigrette or a platter of assorted cured meats and olives for a delightful holiday appetizer spread. A refreshing glass of sparkling wine or cider will round out the palate perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these tartlets on rustic wooden boards or elegant slate trays to bring out their warm colors. For a fun twist at holiday parties, arrange them in a wreath shape with some fresh cranberries and herb sprigs scattered around—it’s an instant conversation starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover tartlets (they rarely last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled preserves the brie’s creamy texture and keeps the puff pastry from getting soggy too quickly.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled unbaked tartlets for up to one month. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time and bake from frozen for fresh, flaky results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the tartlets on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this will soften the puff pastry and reduce the signature crunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?
While brie offers a creamy melt and mild flavor ideal for this recipe, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like camembert or a mild goat cheese for a different twist. Just keep in mind these cheeses may vary in meltability and taste.
Is it okay to use canned cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! Whole berry canned cranberry sauce works perfectly here, lending that classic, festive tartness and texture. Just be sure it’s not too runny, or it might make the pastry soggy.
How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Make sure your brie is chilled before assembling, and avoid overloading the tartlets with filling. Also, baking at the recommended temperature ensures the pastry crisps up nicely before any moisture from fillings has a chance to soak in.
Can these tartlets be made vegan or dairy-free?
For a vegan version, substitute the brie with a plant-based cheese that melts well, and use vegan puff pastry (check the label to be sure it contains no butter). Replace honey with maple syrup for the drizzle. The overall flavor profile will be lovely but slightly different.
What’s the best way to serve these at a party?
Serve them warm for the best experience, arranging them on platters with garnishes of fresh herbs and nuts. Consider offering small forks or toothpicks so guests can easily enjoy these bite-sized delights without any mess.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a show-stopping yet easy-to-make holiday appetizer, the Holiday Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Tartlets Recipe is your new secret weapon. With its perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory elements, these tartlets bring effortless festive joy to any table. I can’t wait for you to try making them yourself and share this beloved recipe with friends and family at your next celebration.
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Holiday Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Tartlets Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 tartlets
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Holiday Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Tartlets are festive, easy-to-make appetizers perfect for holiday entertaining. They feature flaky puff pastry filled with creamy brie cheese, sweet tangy cranberry sauce, crunchy nuts, and aromatic fresh herbs, all finished with a warm drizzle of cinnamon-infused honey for a delightful sweet and savory bite.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry Layer
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 2 small brie wheels (6–8 oz each), rind on and chilled
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry works best)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, or sage), finely chopped
Glaze and Topping
- ¼ cup honey
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out both sheets of puff pastry and cut each sheet into 8 squares, yielding a total of 16 squares for your tartlets.
- Cut Brie: Cut the chilled brie wheels into 16 equal cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces, ready to be placed on each pastry square.
- Assemble Tartlets: Place a cube of brie in the center of each puff pastry square. Dollop about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce over the brie, sprinkle with chopped nuts, and add a pinch of finely chopped fresh herbs to each tartlet.
- Shape Tartlets: Fold the corners of each pastry square up towards the center, twisting or pinching the edges to close and create small tartlet bundles.
- Prepare Cinnamon Honey: In a small bowl, combine the honey with ground cinnamon and warm slightly, either in the microwave or a small pan, to blend the flavors smoothly.
- Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Mix the egg with water to make an egg wash and brush it over each tartlet to achieve a golden brown finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes or until the pastry is puffed, golden, and bubbly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove tartlets from the oven and immediately drizzle the warm cinnamon-honey mixture over each one for a sweet and spiced glaze just before serving.
Notes
- For best results, keep the brie and puff pastry well chilled before assembly to prevent sogginess and help maintain shape.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce adds texture and bursts of flavor that complement the creamy brie.
- You can substitute the nuts with your preferred choice, such as almonds or hazelnuts, based on taste or availability.
- Fresh herbs can be varied or omitted depending on your preference; dried herbs can be used but reduce quantity as they are more concentrated.
- Make sure to seal the pastry edges well to keep the filling inside while baking.
- If desired, prepare tartlets ahead of time and bake just before serving to maintain freshness and flakiness.
