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Best Cranberry Brie Bites: Easy 15-Minute Appetizer

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These perfect cranberry brie bites are quick, easy, and absolutely deliver on flavor and presentation. With minimal ingredients and a 15-minute prep time, they are the ultimate crowd-pleasing holiday appetizer.

Ingredients

  • Frozen mini phyllo shells (15-count box)
  • Brie cheese (4 ounces), rind removed and cut into ½-inch cubes
  • Whole berry cranberry sauce (½ cup)
  • Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon), melted
  • Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon), finely chopped
  • Honey for drizzling (optional)
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Remove the frozen phyllo shells from the box and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each one.
  3. Melt the tablespoon of unsalted butter in a small microwave-safe bowl (about 15 seconds on high). Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the inside edges and the top rim of each phyllo shell with the melted butter.
  4. Cut the brie into small cubes, about ½-inch (1.25 cm) each, removing the white rind first. Place one cube of brie into each phyllo shell and press it down gently.
  5. Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, place about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of the brie in each shell. Do not overfill.
  6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the brie is fully melted and bubbly and the edges of the phyllo shells are golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the bites cool on the pan for exactly 2 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle fresh chopped rosemary over the top while still warm. Add honey, pecans, or flaky salt if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t skip brushing the phyllo shells with melted butter—it ensures a crispy shell. Remove the brie rind completely to avoid chewy bits. Do not overbake; watch for the brie to just start bubbling at the edges. These are best served within 10 minutes of coming out of the oven. You can assemble up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate; add 1-2 extra minutes to the bake time.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry brie bites, holiday appetizer, easy appetizer, 15-minute recipe, phyllo shells, brie cheese, cranberry sauce