Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Published: October 26, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: The straightforward preparation makes these tartlets accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of brie and cranberry creates a deliciously unique taste that will tantalize your taste buds.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion.
Impressive Presentation: Their elegant look adds a touch of sophistication to your appetizer spread.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust toppings or add spices to suit your personal taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Below is a list of essential equipment needed for making Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mini muffin tin
Rolling pin
3-inch round cutter or glass
Baking sheet
Fork

Importance of Each Tool

Mini muffin tin: Creates perfectly shaped tartlet shells that hold their form during baking.
Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness when rolling out puff pastry, leading to consistent baking results.
3-inch round cutter: Helps you achieve uniform circles for tartlet shells, ensuring even cooking and an attractive presentation.

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

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

Step 2: Assemble the Tartlets

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

Step 3: Bake the Tartlets

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

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

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

How to Serve Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets make a delightful appetizer for any gathering. Their rich flavors and elegant presentation are sure to impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

Pair with Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens: Complement the tartlets with a light salad of mixed greens, tossed in a simple vinaigrette.
Cranberry Spinach Salad: A spinach salad topped with dried cranberries and nuts pairs well with the tartlets’ flavors.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a balsamic reduction on the plate for a tangy contrast to the creamy cheese.
Honey Mustard Sauce: A honey mustard sauce adds a sweet and zesty flavor that enhances the tartlets.

Create a Cheese Board

Cheese Variety: Include various cheeses like goat cheese or sharp cheddar alongside the tartlets for an elegant cheese board.
Fruits and Nuts: Add seasonal fruits such as apple slices or grapes, along with assorted nuts for added texture.

How to Perfect Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Achieving perfection in your Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets is easy with a few helpful tips. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish:

Bold Puff Pastry Choice: Use high-quality puff pastry for better flakiness and flavor.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh cranberry sauce if possible, as it enhances taste significantly.
Proper Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; remove from the oven when golden brown for optimal texture.
Chill Before Baking: Chill the assembled tartlets in the fridge before baking to help maintain their shape.
Experiment with Spices: Try adding spices like black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets with these delicious side dishes. Each option complements the flavors beautifully.

Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic adds warmth and depth.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs provides a nutritious balance to the richness of the tartlets.
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with fresh herbs serves as a perfect accompaniment.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Bite-sized stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese enhance the appetizer experience.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with rosemary are always a crowd-pleaser alongside these tartlets.
Brussels Sprouts Salad: Shaved Brussels sprouts mixed with nuts and a citrus dressing brings brightness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets, it’s easy to overlook some essential steps. Here are common pitfalls to dodge:

Boldly skip the chilling: Not chilling puff pastry can lead to uneven baking. Always refrigerate your pastry before rolling it out for best results.
Boldly overstuffing the shells: Filling tartlet shells too much can cause them to overflow. Use just enough filling to keep them neat and tidy.
Boldly ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may result in soggy bottoms or burnt tops. Preheat your oven properly and monitor the baking closely.
Boldly using old ingredients: Old cheese or expired cranberry sauce can ruin the flavor. Always check freshness for all ingredients before starting.
Boldly skipping garnish: Garnish adds flavor and visual appeal. Don’t forget to top your tartlets with fresh herbs or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover tartlets in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Freeze tartlets in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid.
Transfer them to a freezer-safe container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, keeping an eye on them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets last?

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I freeze Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets?

Yes! You can freeze these tartlets for up to 2 months. Just make sure they are sealed well in a freezer-safe container.

What can I use instead of Brie cheese?

You can substitute Brie with other creamy cheeses like Camembert or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

How do I make homemade cranberry sauce?

To make homemade cranberry sauce, simmer fresh cranberries with sugar and orange juice until thickened, about 15-20 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect appetizer for any gathering or holiday feast. Feel free to customize them with your favorite nuts or herbs based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how simple yet elegant these tartlets are!

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