Description

Savory cranberry and Brie tartlets are an elegant and delicious appetizer featuring creamy Brie cheese paired with tangy cranberry sauce, all nestled in flaky puff pastry shells. Ideal for holiday parties, casual gatherings, or sophisticated dinners, these bite-sized treats combine sweet, savory, and nutty flavors with a delicate herb garnish, making them an irresistible crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Tartlet Shells

1 package (2 sheets) puff pastry, thawed, or 24 pre-made tartlet shells
Flour, for dusting (if using puff pastry)

For the Filling

8 ounces Brie cheese, cut into small cubes or slices
½ cup cranberry sauce, homemade or store-bought
¼ cup walnuts or pecans, finely chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped, for garnish
2 tablespoons honey, for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Puff Pastry Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases. Using a 3-inch round cutter or a glass, cut out circles and press them into a greased mini muffin tin to form tartlet shells. Prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent excessive puffing during baking.
Assemble the Tartlets: Place a small piece of Brie cheese into each tartlet shell. Top each with a spoonful of cranberry sauce. If desired, sprinkle finely chopped walnuts or pecans over the top for added crunch.
Bake the Tartlets: Bake the filled tartlets in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the Brie has melted. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before gently removing them from the muffin tin.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish each tartlet with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme. Drizzle with honey if you prefer a touch of sweetness. Serve the tartlets warm or at room temperature for an impressive appetizer presentation.

Notes

Use high-quality, creamy Brie with a mild flavor for the best results.
Customize the cranberry sauce with orange zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
Grease the muffin tin well or use non-stick spray to ensure easy tartlet removal.
Keep puff pastry cold while working to maintain its flaky texture.
You can substitute nuts, omit them, or use alternatives like toasted seeds if preferred.
Pre-made tartlet shells can be used to save time.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free puff pastry or tartlet shells.
Plant-based Brie alternatives can be used for dairy-free versions.
To prevent puff pastry from puffing too much, prick the bottom with a fork before baking.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Savory tartlets, Brie tartlets, cranberry appetizer, holiday appetizers, puff pastry appetizers, bite-sized snacks