Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

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Looking for a holiday-ready appetizer that balances sweet and savory in every bite? These Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are your answer. With golden, flaky puff pastry as the base, creamy brie nestled in the center, and a burst of tangy cranberry topping, they’re the perfect bite-sized indulgence for gatherings or cozy evenings.

What sets these tartlets apart is their simplicity paired with gourmet appeal. They come together in under 30 minutes and disappear even faster. The contrast between the melty brie and the cranberry sauce—with a hint of rosemary—is enough to convert even the skeptics. Whether you’re hosting a wine night or planning your holiday table, this recipe is both elegant and effortless.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delicious layers, make sure your kitchen is stocked with the right tools to guarantee the best results:

• Mini Muffin Pan: This ensures the puff pastry holds shape and creates perfect individual tartlets.
• Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: Needed to slice the puff pastry into even squares.
• Pastry Brush: Helps to apply egg wash for a glossy, golden crust.
• Small Spoon or Cookie Scoop: For neatly placing cranberry sauce on each tartlet.
• Baking Sheet (optional): If you prefer free-form tartlets or want to catch any overflow.

Each tool has its purpose. The muffin pan provides structure, while the pastry brush elevates presentation. With just these basics, you’re set up to make a show-stopping appetizer.

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Ingredients for the Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Each ingredient plays a small but mighty role in the flavor and texture of these festive tartlets:

• Puff Pastry Sheets: These create the crispy, flaky base and are essential for that bakery-style texture.
• Brie Cheese: The creamy heart of each tartlet. Its rich, buttery flavor complements the tart cranberries perfectly.
• Cranberry Sauce: Adds a tangy sweetness and jewel-like color. You can use homemade or store-bought.
• Fresh Rosemary (optional): A sprig adds visual flair and earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with cranberries and brie.
• Egg (for egg wash): Brushed onto the pastry edges, this ensures a shiny, golden finish.

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How To Make the Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Step 1: Prep the Puff Pastry Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin pan. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into 2×2 inch squares. Press each square into the muffin wells, letting the corners peek over the edges.

Step 2: Add the Brie

Cut the brie into small cubes (about 1-inch). Place a cube into the center of each puff pastry square.

Step 3: Spoon the Cranberry Sauce

Top the brie with about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce. Don’t overfill—a little goes a long way.

Step 4: Apply Egg Wash

Beat an egg and use a pastry brush to coat the exposed edges of the pastry. This helps them brown beautifully.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the brie is melted and bubbling. Let them cool for 5 minutes before removing from the pan.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top each tartlet with a tiny sprig of rosemary if using. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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How to Serve and Store Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

These tartlets are best served warm when the brie is soft and gooey, but they hold up beautifully at room temperature as well. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board or a chic white platter for effortless presentation. A drizzle of honey or a light sprinkle of sea salt can elevate them even further.

To store leftovers, place the cooled tartlets in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 300°F oven for about 8 minutes to regain the crisp texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make these tartlets?

You can prepare them up to a day ahead. Assemble everything and store the tray covered in the fridge. Bake fresh when needed.

Can I freeze these?

Yes! Assemble and freeze them unbaked. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a different cheese?

Definitely. Camembert works well, or even a sharp white cheddar if you want a stronger bite.

What if I don’t have a mini muffin pan?

You can make free-form tartlets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Just pinch the corners of the pastry to create a shallow “cup.”

Do they need to be served immediately?

They’re best warm but can be served at room temperature, making them great for parties and potlucks.

Is the rosemary necessary?

Not at all, but it adds a lovely aroma and a pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the cranberry red.

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Want More Holiday Appetizer Ideas?

If these Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets impressed you, here are a few more festive favorites worth exploring:

You might enjoy the creamy depth of my Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries, which balance richness with a sweet-tart finish. For a savory twist, try the Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheesebombs — golden and melty bites perfect for any spread.

Another cozy option? My Mississippi Sin Quiche, rich and satisfying with every slice. If you’re a puff pastry fan, don’t miss the Raspberry Crescent Rolls for a fruit-forward finish to any meal. And for savory and indulgent, Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole turns any gathering into a comfort food feast.

Explore these and more holiday-worthy bites on LadyPlate:

• Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
• Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheesebombs
• Mississippi Sin Quiche
• Raspberry Crescent Rolls
• Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this appetizer to your holiday or entertaining boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make these tartlets, I’d love to hear how they turned out. Did you add nuts or switch up the cheese? Leave a comment below or tag me in your photos. And if you’re hungry for more, follow along on my Pinterest @LadyPlate for fresh ideas every week.

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