Cranberry Brie Bites (gluten-free puff pastry) are one of the most beloved holiday appetizers on my table. My story with this recipe begins with fall in Tuscany where I grew up surrounded by seasonal flavors, woodsy aromas, and flaky, buttery pastries made with care. Fast forward to my life now, cooking gluten-free in the U.S., I’ve found ways to recreate those comforting treats without wheat without compromise.
These bite-sized pastries combine creamy brie, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and a crisp, golden gluten-free puff pastry shell that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, attending a Friendsgiving, or planning a cozy date night in, these cranberry brie bites are guaranteed to impress.
In this blog post, we’ll walk through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful baking tips, delicious variations (like a streusel topping or nutty twist), and how to store them for best results. This warm, inviting appetizer is beginner-friendly and packed with festive flavor and yes, it works perfectly with any gluten-free puff pastry you love.
Cranberry Brie Bites (Gluten Free Puff Pastry)
Equipment
- Rolling Pin
- Knife or pizza cutter
- Mini muffin tin
- mixing bowl
- Pastry brush
- oven
Ingredients
- 1 sheet gluten-free puff pastry, thawed if frozen
- 4 oz brie cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 0.5 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- 1 egg, for egg wash
- fresh rosemary (optional garnish)
- chopped pecans or walnuts (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Lightly flour a surface with gluten-free flour and roll out the puff pastry to smooth the seams. Cut into 24 equal squares using a knife or pizza cutter.
- Grease a mini muffin tin or use nonstick spray. Gently press each pastry square into the cups.
- Place a cube of brie into each pastry cup. Top with 1 tsp of cranberry sauce. Drizzle with maple syrup if desired.
- Beat the egg with 1 tsp water. Lightly brush the exposed pastry edges with the egg wash.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 13–15 minutes, until pastry is puffed and golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- Let them cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a plate. Serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients for Cranberry Brie Bites (Gluten-Free Puff Pastry)
To make about 24 mini bites, you’ll need:
- 1 sheet gluten-free puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 4 oz brie cheese, cut into ½ inch cubes
- ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: fresh rosemary, chopped pecans, or walnuts for garnish
Ingredient Tips:
- For gluten-free puff pastry, brands like Schär or GeeFree work great.
- Brie should be cold when cutting it’s easier to slice and keeps its shape during baking.
- If you’re making your own cranberry sauce, keep it simple: cranberries, orange juice, and a touch of maple syrup.
Looking for another cozy appetizer? Check out my Baked Brie with Cranberry Pecan Topping a showstopper for holiday spreads.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Puff Pastry:
Lightly flour a surface with gluten-free flour and roll out the puff pastry to smooth the seams. Cut into 24 equal squares using a knife or pizza cutter.
2. Prepare Your Pan:
Grease a mini muffin tin or use nonstick spray. Gently press each pastry square into the cups.
3. Add the Brie and Cranberry:
Place a cube of brie into each pastry cup. Top with 1 tsp of cranberry sauce. Drizzle a tiny bit of maple syrup if using.
4. Egg Wash:
Beat the egg with 1 tsp water. Lightly brush the exposed pastry edges for a golden finish.
5. Bake:
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 13–15 minutes, until pastry is puffed and golden and the cheese is bubbling.
6. Cool Slightly and Serve:
Let them cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Want more savory gluten-free bites? Try my Parmesan Garlic Cauliflower Bites for another party-ready favorite.
Tips for Perfect Cranberry Brie Bites
- Don’t overfill: A little cranberry goes a long way. Too much can cause overflow.
- Use a chilled brie: It holds shape better while assembling and doesn’t melt too fast.
- Mini muffin tin works best: It supports the puff pastry so it bakes upward, not outward.
- Bake just before serving: These are best warm when the brie is creamy and soft.
Need something for the cheese lovers in your life? My Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks are always a hit with kids and grown-ups alike.
Delicious Variations to Try
Here are a few ideas to put your own spin on this classic bite:
1. Nutty Crunch:
Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking. It adds great texture and compliments the brie beautifully.
2. Streusel Topping:
Mix 2 tbsp almond flour, 1 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tbsp melted butter to create a quick streusel. Spoon a tiny bit on each bite for a sweet-salty combo.
3. Herbaceous Note:
Top each bite with a tiny sprig of rosemary before or after baking for a fragrant, earthy finish.
4. Fruit Swap:
Substitute fig jam or apricot preserves for cranberry sauce for a Mediterranean twist.
Pair these with other small bites like my Gluten-Free Cheesecake Bites for a sweet and savory party board.
Storage & Make Ahead Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the bites and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- After Baking: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 6–8 minutes. Avoid the microwave pastry gets soggy.
- Freezing: Not recommended after baking, but you can freeze unbaked assembled bites and bake straight from frozen (add 2–3 minutes to bake time).
Want to stock your party with more gluten-free finger foods? These Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders are crunchy, dippable, and kid-approved.
FAQs about Cranberry Brie Bites (Gluten-Free Puff Pastry)
Can I make cranberry brie bites in advance?
Yes! Assemble them up to a day ahead and store covered in the fridge. Bake fresh for best texture.
Which gluten-free puff pastry should I use?
Look for brands like Schär or GeeFree they offer a buttery taste and puff well. Just thaw per instructions before use.
What can I use instead of brie?
Camembert or a soft goat cheese are good substitutes. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based brie-style cheese.
Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
For a crispier texture, yes but make sure it’s gluten-free and layer it properly. Phyllo tends to brown faster.
Final Thoughts
These Cranberry Brie Bites (gluten-free puff pastry) are everything you want in a holiday appetizer easy to make, beautiful to serve, and a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and savory. Whether you’re gluten-free or cooking for someone who is, you won’t miss the wheat here. Serve them alongside my Gluten-Free Hush Puppies or Easy Gluten-Free Dinner Recipes for a full festive spread.
Bake these once, and they’ll become a seasonal staple just like they have in my kitchen.