Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the thawed puff pastry gently to smooth any creases, then cut into 24 small squares using a pastry cutter or sharp knife.
- Arrange the pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Brush the edges lightly with beaten egg to help them turn golden and crisp during baking.
- Bake the pastry for 12-15 minutes until they are puffed up and golden around the edges, filling your kitchen with a warm, buttery aroma. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
- Meanwhile, rinse the cranberries and combine them with honey or maple syrup in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a glossy, tart glaze. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Slice the brie into small cubes, roughly half an inch each. Once the pastry squares are out of the oven and slightly cooled, place a small piece of brie on top of each.
- Spoon a dollop of the cooled cranberry glaze onto each pastry, covering the cheese softly. For an elegant touch, sprinkle with fresh thyme or a crack of black pepper if desired.
- Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 3-4 minutes, just enough to melt the cheese slightly and meld the flavors. The cranberries should glisten, and the pastry will be crisp and flaky.
- Remove the bites from the oven and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spatula to transfer them to a serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature, enjoying their crisp, melty, and tart harmony.
Notes
For a vegan version, substitute the egg wash with plant-based milk and use vegan cheese. Feel free to add chopped nuts for extra crunch or swap the cranberries for dried ones soaked in warm water if fresh aren’t available.
