These Cranberry Brie Mini Hand Pies are perfect little treats! Crispy on the outside and filled with gooey brie cheese and tart cranberry, they make delicious snacks or appetizers.
They’re so easy to make! Just fill pastry dough with the cheesy goodness, pop them in the oven, and watch everyone snag seconds. Trust me, they vanish fast! 🥐💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of your hand pies! If you don’t have puff pastry, you can substitute with pie crust for a denser texture. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creaminess, but you can also use Camembert for a stronger flavor or even cream cheese mixed with a bit of garlic for a different twist.
Cranberry Sauce: Use store-bought cranberry sauce for convenience, or make your own by cooking fresh cranberries with sugar and a splash of water. For a fun twist, try using cherry or raspberry sauce!
Fresh Thyme: If thyme isn’t available, rosemary, sage, or even dried herbs can work well too. Just adjust the amount to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
How Do I Make Sure My Hand Pies Are Perfectly Sealed?
Sealing the edges of your hand pies properly is key to avoid leaking during baking. Here’s how:
- After filling the pastry squares, fold them over and press out the air from around the filling.
- Use a fork to press down the edges firmly. This not only seals but also gives a nice decorative edge.
- If you’re worried about leaks, you can add a little flour to the edges before pressing, which helps them stick better.
Make sure to keep the filling sealed inside. A little extra care goes a long way to keep all that cheesy goodness in!
Cranberry Brie Mini Hand Pies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 4 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce or whole fresh cranberries mixed with a tablespoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Flour for dusting the surface
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to serve up these delightful mini pies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready to Bake!
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the mini hand pies from sticking.
2. Prepare Your Puff Pastry
Lightly dust your work surface with flour to keep the pastry from sticking. Roll out the thawed puff pastry until it’s smooth. This will make it easier to cut and seal your hand pies.
3. Cut the Pastry into Squares
Using a sharp knife or pastry cutter, cut the puff pastry into squares about 3-4 inches each. Don’t worry about being perfect—handmade looks great!
4. Add the Filling
In the center of each pastry square, place a small cube of Brie cheese. Top it with about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce or the sweetened cranberries. Finish by sprinkling a few thyme leaves over the filling for an aromatic kick!
5. Seal the Hand Pies
Carefully fold each square over into a triangle or rectangle shape. Press the edges together, and use a fork to seal them tightly. This step is crucial to keep all that cheesy goodness inside while they bake!
6. Prepare for Baking
Place the assembled hand pies on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg. This will give them a lovely golden color as they bake. If you’d like, sprinkle a few extra thyme leaves on top for added flair.
7. Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven, and bake for 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they’re done when the pastry is beautifully golden and puffed up.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, carefully remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve them warm, and don’t forget the extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping!
Enjoy these tasty, cheesy hand pies that perfectly blend the flavors of tart cranberry and rich Brie cheese!
Can I Use Pre-Made Puff Pastry for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-made puff pastry is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without sacrificing taste. Just thaw it according to the package instructions before using.
How Can I Store Leftover Hand Pies?
To store leftovers, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that crispiness!
Can I Freeze These Mini Hand Pies?
Yes, these hand pies freeze beautifully! Assemble them as directed, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for an extra 5-10 minutes, and enjoy fresh-baked goodness anytime!
What Can I Serve with Cranberry Brie Mini Hand Pies?
These mini hand pies pair wonderfully with a side of mixed greens or a cranberry dipping sauce. You could also serve them with a glass of sparkling wine or a warm mulled cider for a festive touch!
