Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

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I absolutely adore the balance of flavors in these Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets. Every bite feels like a celebration of contrasts — the rich, creamy brie meets the tart pop of cranberries, all nestled in a flaky, golden puff pastry shell. It’s a combination that’s both comforting and elegant, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or a fancy-feeling appetizer that’s surprisingly simple to pull off.

These tartlets are a go-to when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re quick to prepare, and the result is always stunning. Whether served warm straight out of the oven or cooled to room temperature, they hold their flavor and texture beautifully. I’ve served them at everything from casual brunches to festive dinner parties, and they always disappear within minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets Recipe

• It’s a beautiful mix of creamy, tangy, and flaky textures.
• Comes together quickly with minimal ingredients.
• Perfect for entertaining — looks impressive with little effort.
• Can be made ahead and reheated without losing quality.
• Customizable with herbs or nuts for extra flair.

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What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

I recommend using store-bought all-butter puff pastry if you can find it. The flavor is richer and the layers are incredibly flaky. Make sure to thaw it in the fridge before using, not at room temperature — this helps maintain the pastry’s structure during baking. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade puff pastry is always welcome, but it’s definitely not required for these tartlets to shine.

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Options for Substitutions

You can easily swap out the brie for camembert if you prefer a slightly earthier flavor. For a non-dairy version, use a plant-based brie alternative. If cranberries aren’t in season, try a tart cherry preserve or a spiced fig jam. As for garnish, fresh rosemary is my favorite, but thyme or even toasted walnuts work beautifully, too.

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Ingredients for This Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets Recipe

• Puff Pastry Sheets – These form the golden, flaky base of the tartlets. Opt for all-butter versions for maximum flavor and crispiness.
• Brie Cheese – The creamy heart of each tartlet. It melts beautifully and balances the tartness of the cranberry sauce.
• Cranberry Sauce – Use whole berry cranberry sauce for texture and a bright, tart burst of flavor. Homemade or canned both work.
• Fresh Rosemary – A fragrant garnish that brings earthy warmth and a holiday vibe.
• Egg (for egg wash) – Brushing the pastry with beaten egg gives it that beautifully shiny, golden finish.
• Optional Add-ins: Crushed pecans or walnuts for crunch, honey drizzle for sweetness, or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for contrast.

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Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll or unfold your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and use a round cutter or glass to cut circles that fit into your muffin tin. Gently press the pastry circles into each cup, creating a shallow well for the filling.

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Step 2: Add the Brie

Slice the brie into small cubes or thin wedges. Place one piece in the center of each puff pastry round. It will melt as it bakes, creating a creamy base for the tartlets.

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Step 3: Spoon in the Cranberry Sauce

Add about a teaspoon of whole berry cranberry sauce over each piece of brie. Don’t overfill, as the sauce will bubble and spread during baking.

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Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash

Beat one egg and lightly brush the exposed edges of the puff pastry with it. This step ensures a shiny, golden crust.

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Step 5: Bake

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and fully puffed, and the brie is bubbling. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time to avoid over-browning.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before removing from the muffin tin. Top each tartlet with a small sprig of fresh rosemary. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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How Long to Prepare the Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Prep Time: Most of the prep work involves cutting the puff pastry and assembling the tartlets. If you’re using store-bought cranberry sauce and pre-sliced brie, it takes about 15 minutes from start to finish.

Cook Time: Baking time is approximately 15 to 18 minutes. You want the pastry to puff up and turn golden brown, and the cheese should be bubbling but not overflowing. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving. In total, you can expect the entire process to take around 30 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

• Keep your puff pastry cold until ready to use to ensure the flakiest texture.
• Don’t overload the filling — a small amount of brie and cranberry goes a long way.
• Use a muffin tin or mini tart pans for even shapes and easy handling.
• Add the rosemary garnish after baking to maintain its fresh aroma and color.
• Let tartlets rest a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to settle.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Thawing puff pastry too long – It can become sticky and hard to work with. Thaw in the fridge.
• Overbaking – Brie can become rubbery and pastry may burn. Stick to the 15–18 minute window.
• Skipping egg wash – This small step makes a big difference in appearance and crispness.
• Using too much cranberry sauce – Excess sauce can spill over and make the pastry soggy.
• Not greasing the muffin tin – Even puff pastry can stick, so use a light spray or butter.

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What to Serve With Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets?

1. Fresh Arugula Salad

A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the brie and balances the sweetness of the cranberry.

2. Sparkling Wine or Prosecco

The bubbles and acidity pair perfectly with the creamy and tart elements.

3. Roasted Root Vegetables

Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes offer a hearty and earthy contrast.

4. Charcuterie Board

These tartlets fit right in among cured meats, nuts, and fruits, creating a beautiful grazing spread.

5. Butternut Squash Soup

A warm, velvety soup pairs wonderfully as a starter alongside the tartlets.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Allow the tartlets to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Freezer: These tartlets freeze well. Place cooled tartlets on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to one month. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.

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Estimated Nutrition (per tartlet, approx.)

• Calories: 130–150
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sodium: 150mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far ahead can I make these tartlets?

You can assemble them a few hours ahead and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. Or bake fully, refrigerate or freeze, and reheat before serving.

Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?

Yes! Camembert, goat cheese, or even cream cheese with herbs can work well.

Do I need to grease the muffin tin if using puff pastry?

Yes, lightly greasing ensures easy release after baking. Even puff pastry can stick when the cheese melts.

Can I make these tartlets in mini muffin tins?

Absolutely! Just reduce the baking time to around 10–12 minutes and cut your pastry circles smaller.

What kind of cranberry sauce works best?

Whole berry cranberry sauce is ideal for texture and tartness, but a quality jam or chutney also works.

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Conclusion

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are everything I want in a holiday or party appetizer: quick, elegant, flavorful, and completely addictive. Whether you’re a confident cook or just getting started, this recipe delivers stunning results with very little effort. The combination of flaky pastry, gooey cheese, and tangy cranberries is irresistible — and once you try them, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

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