The holiday season twinkles with joy when you bring creativity to the table, and nothing says festive like a tray of cranberry sauce and brie mini tartelettes. Whether you’re looking to switch up your go-to holiday recipes or simply want to wow your guests with a delightful blend of sweet and savory, these tartelettes are sure to do the trick.
As a food enthusiast and a passionate home baker, I’ve found that adding a personal touch to classic treats like Caviar Canapés can create unforgettable experiences for family and friends. I’m thrilled to share with you this simple yet exquisite recipe of cranberry sauce and brie mini tartelettes that combines the tanginess of cranberries with the creamy decadence of brie. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s get baking these little bundles of joy!
Cranberry Sauce and Brie Mini Tartelettes
Ingredients
Before you dive into the world of pastry and fillings, make sure you’ve got everything you need. This recipe of cranberry sauce and brie mini tartelettes is designed to be straightforward and uses ingredients that are easy to find during the holiday season.
- 1 package (2 sheets) of store-bought puff pastry dough, thawed
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 wheel of brie cheese
- Fresh rosemary, finely chopped (for garnish)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
Creating these little crowd-pleasers is a breeze, and the end result is so delectable that I assure you, they won’t last long on the serving dish!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- Unroll the thawed puff pastry dough on a lightly floured surface. Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles that will fit into the cups of your mini muffin tin.
- Press the pastry circles gently into the tin, shaping them into little cups.
- Cut the brie into small pieces, ensuring each one will fit snugly inside the pastry cups.
- Place a piece of brie into each pastry cup, then top with a teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
- Whisk the egg in a small bowl and brush each tartelette with the egg wash to give them a beautiful golden sheen.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Allow the tartelettes to cool for a couple of minutes in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Garnish each tartelette with a sprinkle of chopped rosemary for a touch of color and festive flavor.
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
Tag @amcookingitaliano on Instagram and hashtag it #amcookingitaliano!
Tips for Customization
What I love about this recipe is how versatile it can be! Feel free to get creative and tailor them to your taste or the occasion.
- Try different cheeses: If brie isn’t your favorite, consider swapping it out for camembert, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar.
- Change up the sauce: A raspberry or fig jam can be excellent substitutes for cranberry sauce if you’re after a different type of sweetness.
- Add nuts: A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans can introduce a lovely crunch and nuttiness to the tartelettes.
- Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the cranberry sauce for a warm, spiced twist.
How to Store
If you have leftovers or you’re preparing in advance, storing these tartelettes is simple. Once they’ve completely cooled, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until they’re warm. Although, I often find these treats rarely make it to storage – they’re that irresistible!
Conclusion
There you have it, a simple and satisfying treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or when you crave a touch of gourmet at home. Personally, I find the process of making these cranberry sauce and brie mini tartelettes therapeutic, especially with the aroma of baked pastry and melting cheese wafting through the kitchen. It’s my little holiday tradition that I’m more than happy to share with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the mini tartelettes?
Absolutely! Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to a month. Just bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to serve.
Is it better to use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce?
Both work great! If you have the time, homemade cranberry sauce can add a personal touch, but store-bought sauce is a convenient and tasty option as well.
What’s the best way to serve the tartelettes at a party?
I recommend serving them warm on a platter, garnished with fresh rosemary. They make for a charming presentation and taste best when enjoyed fresh from the oven.
Whether you’re a seasoned holiday chef or a newbie in the kitchen, these mini tartelettes are a foolproof addition to your festive repertoire. The combination of flavors and textures is a testament to the magic of holiday baking, and certainly, something to look forward to each year. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with delicious moments!
