These cranberry brie tartlets are bite-sized treats that burst with flavor! Creamy brie cheese meets tangy cranberries in a flaky pastry shell—perfect for parties!
They are so easy to make, you’ll feel like a chef in no time! I love serving them warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Trust me, they’ll disappear fast! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the tartlets! If you can’t find puff pastry, you might try phyllo dough, though it has a different texture. Remember to layer it nicely with some butter in between for a crispy result.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creaminess and depth. However, camembert or cream cheese can be good substitutes if you’re looking for something different or less expensive.
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries both work well. If you’re unable to find cranberries, you could use a store-bought cranberry sauce or even cherry preserves for a sweet twist.
Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch, but you can skip them if there are nut allergies. Sunflower seeds could offer a nice crunch too!
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal aroma. If you don’t have it, dried thyme works, but use it sparingly since the flavor is more concentrated.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Puff Pastry Tartlets?
Getting the puff pastry right is key! Here’s how to ensure yours puffs beautifully:
- Keep the puff pastry cold before baking. If it warms up, it may not puff as well.
- Don’t skimp on the scoring! Scoring the edges helps them rise higher while keeping the center intact for your filling.
- Bake on a lined sheet to prevent sticking and allow even baking.
- Keep an eye on them; ovens can vary! Look for a golden brown color for perfect doneness.
With these tips, your tartlets will not only look great but taste amazing too! Enjoy your cooking!
Cranberry Brie Tartlets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Tartlets:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 6 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
For The Cranberry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For The Egg Wash:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Garnish (optional):
- Fresh whole cranberries
- Thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 12 minutes prepping and baking the tartlets, plus an additional 10-12 minutes for making the cranberry topping. Enjoy a quick, delicious bite when ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, unfold the puff pastry sheet and cut it into 12 squares, each roughly 3×3 inches. Use a sharp knife to carefully score a smaller square inside each piece, about half an inch from the edge—this will help the edges puff up nicely while keeping the center ready for filling!
3. Baking the Pastry:
Place the pastry squares on your lined baking sheet. Beat the egg and brush it over the edges of each square to give your tartlets a golden color as they bake. Pop them in the oven for about 12 minutes, or until they’re nice and golden brown!
4. Prepare the Cranberry Topping:
While the pastry is baking, grab a small saucepan. Over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, chopped nuts (if you’re using them), fresh thyme leaves, and lemon juice. Cook and stir occasionally until the cranberries burst and the mixture becomes thick and jam-like, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Assemble the Tartlets:
When the pastry is baked, take the tartlets out of the oven and gently press down the centers if needed. Now, place a piece of brie cheese right in the center of each tartlet. Return them to the oven for about 2-3 more minutes, until the brie is soft and melty.
6. Top it Off:
Take the tartlets out one last time and carefully spoon the cranberry topping over the melted brie in each tartlet. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and whole cranberries if you like for a festive touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the tartlets warm and watch them disappear! They make a delightful appetizer or snack for any gathering.
Enjoy these delightful cranberry brie tartlets as a festive treat! They’re sure to impress your guests!
Can I Use Different Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If brie isn’t available, camembert, cream cheese, or even goat cheese can work well. Just keep in mind the flavor profiles will change slightly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through!
Can I Make These Tartlets Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cranberry topping and puff pastry in advance. Assemble and bake the tartlets right before serving for the best texture.
What Can I Serve with These Tartlets?
These tartlets pair wonderfully with a simple salad, charcuterie board, or even a glass of sparkling wine for a festive touch. Get creative with your serving options!
