Description
These elegant puff pastry bites feature a sophisticated pairing of creamy brie cheese and a vibrant, house-made cranberry compote. Infused with fresh orange zest and a touch of maple syrup, this appetizer offers the perfect balance of tart and buttery flavors. Perfectly sized for hosting, the crispy, golden pastry exterior gives way to a molten, indulgent center that is sure to be the highlight of any holiday gathering or weekend brunch.
Ingredients
2 sheets puff pastry, chilled
1 cup fresh cranberries
8 ounces brie cheese, cut into 24 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine cranberries, maple syrup, and orange zest in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Cook until the berries burst and the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency.
Remove from heat, stir in fresh thyme leaves, and let the mixture cool.
Unfold the puff pastry sheets and cut each into 12 even squares using a sharp knife or pastry wheel.
Place a small cube of brie in the center of each pastry square.
Top each cheese cube with a teaspoon of the cooled cranberry mixture and a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.
Fold the corners of the pastry over the cheese, or leave open as cups, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Serve warm.
Notes
Ensure the puff pastry remains cold while working with it to maintain the flaky texture. If the brie is difficult to cut, freeze it for 10 minutes beforehand. Honey can be used as a substitute for maple syrup if preferred. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in a toaster oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Modern Appetizer
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg