Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are a delightful appetizer perfect for any gathering. These bite-sized treats combine the rich, creamy flavor of Brie cheese with the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce, all nestled in a flaky pastry shell. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a holiday party, or an elegant dinner, these tartlets impress guests with their vibrant colors and exquisite taste. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your event.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these tartlets in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of creamy Brie and sweet-tart cranberry creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Versatile for Occasions: Ideal for Thanksgiving, holiday parties, or casual gatherings, these tartlets fit any event.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or herbs for extra crunch and flavor to suit your palate.
• Beautiful Presentation: Each tartlet looks stunning on a platter, making them a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets a breeze. Gather your kitchen essentials before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Rolling pin
• Round cutter or glass
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: This is essential for shaping your tartlet shells perfectly and ensuring they hold their form while baking.
• Rolling pin: Helps flatten puff pastry evenly for consistent thickness in each tartlet shell.
• Round cutter or glass: Useful for cutting out uniform circles from puff pastry to create beautifully shaped shells.

Ingredients

For the Tartlet Shells

• Puff Pastry: 1 package (2 sheets), thawed, or 24 pre-made tartlet shells.
• Flour: For dusting (if using puff pastry).

For the Filling

• Brie Cheese: 8 ounces, cut into small cubes or slices.
• Cranberry Sauce: ½ cup, homemade or store-bought.
• Walnuts or Pecans (Optional): ¼ cup, finely chopped, for crunch.
• Fresh Rosemary or Thyme: 1 tablespoon, chopped, for garnish.
• Honey (Optional): 2 tablespoons, for drizzling.

How to Make Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases.
3. Use a 3-inch round cutter or a glass to cut out circles.
4. Press the circles into a greased mini muffin tin to form tartlet shells.
5. Prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.

Step 2: Assemble the Tartlets

1. Place a small piece of Brie into each tartlet shell.
2. Top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
3. Sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired.

Step 3: Bake the Tartlets

1. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the cheese is melted.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before removing from the muffin tin.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish each tartlet with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme.
2. Drizzle with honey for added sweetness if desired.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy making these Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets; they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

How to Serve Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are a delightful appetizer that can elevate any gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will impress your guests.

Pair with Wine

• Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the tartness of cranberry.
• White Wine: Chardonnay offers a creamy contrast to the richness of brie, enhancing the flavors.

Add Fresh Garnishes

• Herbs: Sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme not only enhance presentation but also add aromatic depth.
• Cranberries: Fresh cranberries can be scattered around the serving platter for a pop of color.

Create a Charcuterie Board

• Cheeses: Include a variety of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or goat cheese, to complement the tartlets.
• Meats: Prosciutto or salami can add savory notes that balance the sweetness of the tartlets.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Balsamic Reduction: A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds tanginess and complexity to each bite.
• Honey Mustard Dip: A creamy honey mustard dip provides a nice contrast to the flavors in the tartlets.

Offer Complementary Appetizers

• Bruschetta: Fresh tomato and basil bruschetta can provide a refreshing counterpart to the rich tartlets.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are easy to make and pair well with the flavor profile of the tartlets.

How to Perfect Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Making perfect Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for an exceptional outcome.

• Use Cold Puff Pastry: Ensure your puff pastry is cold before baking; this helps achieve maximum flakiness.
• Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling so that it doesn’t overflow during baking; this keeps your tartlet shells intact.
• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven thoroughly to ensure even cooking for the perfect golden finish.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your tartlets; baking times may vary based on your oven’s calibration.
• Let Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allowing them to cool for a few minutes helps set the filling and enhances flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding different nuts or herbs according to your preference for added texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets can shine even brighter when served alongside complementary side dishes. Here are some great options.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the tartlets.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring earthy flavors that pair wonderfully with the sweet-tart notes of cranberry.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side dish complements the creamy brie while adding wholesome grains to your meal.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a crunchy contrast that enhances your dining experience.
5. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw balance well against the soft texture of the tartlet filling.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter can be a delightful addition, perfect for dipping into sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for perfect tartlets every time.

• Not Thawing Puff Pastry Properly: Always ensure your puff pastry is fully thawed before using it. This prevents tearing and ensures even cooking.
• Overfilling Tartlet Shells: Adding too much cranberry sauce can cause overflow during baking. Use just a spoonful to keep the filling contained.
• Skipping the Fork Pricks: Forgetting to prick the bottoms of the shells can lead to puffed-up tartlets. Always poke holes in the base to allow steam to escape.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your Brie cheese is at room temperature for easier melting. Cold cheese may not melt properly, affecting texture.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Keep an eye on your tartlets as they bake. Overbaking can lead to burnt pastry, while underbaking may result in soggy shells.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

• Freeze tartlets before baking for best results.
• Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds; check and repeat if necessary. This method may make the pastry less crisp.
• Stovetop: Place them in a skillet over low heat for 5-7 minutes, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! While Brie is traditional, you can substitute with goat cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets?

Feel free to add other toppings like caramelized onions or different herbs like thyme or sage for unique flavors.

What’s the best way to serve these tartlets?

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are great warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for parties or gatherings.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tartlet shells ahead of time and fill them just before baking.

Final Thoughts

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are an elegant appetizer perfect for any occasion. Their delightful combination of creamy cheese and tangy cranberry sauce makes them irresistible. You can easily customize these tartlets with various toppings or herbs, allowing you to create your own unique version. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!

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Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Makes about 12 servings 1x

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Description

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are the perfect bite-sized appetizers that will elevate your gatherings. These elegant tartlets feature a rich, creamy Brie cheese paired with sweet-tart cranberry sauce, all encased in a flaky puff pastry shell. Ideal for Thanksgiving, holiday parties, or any festive occasion, they not only delight the palate but also add a splash of color to your table. With their simple preparation and customizable toppings, these tartlets allow you to spend more time enjoying the company of your guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Impress everyone with this gourmet treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package (2 sheets) puff pastry (thawed)
• 8 ounces Brie cheese (cubed)
• ½ cup cranberry sauce
• Optional: ¼ cup walnuts or pecans (chopped)
• Optional: Fresh rosemary or thyme (for garnish)
• Optional: 2 tablespoons honey (for drizzling)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out thawed puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into 3-inch circles.
3. Press dough circles into a greased muffin tin and prick bottoms with a fork.
4. Place a piece of Brie in each shell and top with cranberry sauce; add nuts if desired.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
6. Cool slightly, garnish with herbs, drizzle with honey if desired, and serve warm.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizers
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tartlet (30g)
• Calories: 129
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 145mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg