Cranberry Brie Bites

Crafted from crescent dough, cranberry sauce, and the beloved brie cheese, these cranberry brie bites rank among our top Thanksgiving appetizers (and for good reason!). Packed into these bite-sized delights is everything you crave in a holiday starter: a buttery pastry base, tangy cranberry sauce, creamy brie cheese, and crunchy pecans. Ready in just over 30 minutes, these bites make the perfect last-minute appetizer that might just steal the spotlight from your Thanksgiving turkey.

Keep reading for all the insider tips on how to perfect these easy bites and customize them for every occasion:

Wondering which crescent roll dough to use?
We opted for crescent roll sheets, but the regular kind works just as well—simply roll it out and seal the seams, then cut into squares. Regardless of the type you choose, aim to cut your squares evenly so they fit uniformly into the mini muffin pan. Centering the dough in each muffin tin ensures it rises evenly around the cheese, creating a perfect nest.

While we adore crescent roll dough for its simplicity and taste, you can easily swap in frozen puff pastry.

Should I remove the rind from the brie?
Leave the rind intact! For cheeses like brie with an edible rind, keeping it on helps prevent excessive melting during baking. Pro tip: Chill your cheese thoroughly before slicing. Freezing isn’t necessary, but a good chill makes slicing a breeze.

What’s the best jam for these bites?
While cranberry sauce adds a festive touch, the possibilities extend far beyond. This recipe’s flexibility and balance allow for endless combinations of creamy, sweet, salty, and herby flavors. Once you’ve mastered the technique, experiment with your preferred preserves. Each brie bite requires about a teaspoon of your chosen preserve.

We also adore our baked feta bites and caramelized onion & goat cheese bites, but here are a few other pairing ideas to ignite your creativity:

• Crumbled goat cheese + apricot preserves + toasted almonds + thyme
• Camembert + cherry preserves + crumbled bacon + black pepper
• Brie + hot pepper jelly + candied pecans + thyme
• Feta + roasted red pepper + minced shallots + thyme

Can I prepare these in advance?
Absolutely! Prep them the night before and refrigerate until ready to bake the next day. While we recommend serving the assembled bites warm, they’re just as delicious at room temperature.

Storage and freezing:
For leftovers intended for the week, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven or air fryer for optimal crescent roll texture. To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the fridge before reheating in the oven.