This is a warm, flaky pastry cup cradling a melting slice of brie and a tart-sweet cranberry jam. Light puff pastry gives a crisp, golden shell, creamy, mild brie melts just enough to be gooey but not runny, and the cranberry jam adds that bright, fruity contrast.
Guests at cocktail parties, Christmas Eve parties will enjoy these bite-sized snacks. These baskets are quick to assemble, visually charming, and big on seasonal flavor.
What are Brie and Cranberry Baskets?
Brie and cranberry baskets are miniature, handheld cheese tarts, combining French-inspired brie with classic holiday cranberries. Though not an ancient recipe, the idea follows long-standing traditions of pairing soft cheeses with fruit preserves. It’s become popular at festive gatherings because of its simplicity, eye appeal, and crowd-pleasing flavor balance.
Pairing fatty, creamy cheese with acidic or sweet fruit is a flavor trick chefs have used for centuries. The fat carries flavor, and the fruit resets the palate, which is why these tiny baskets feel so satisfying.
Pro Tips for the Best Brie and Cranberry Baskets
- Keep the pastry cold until baking because cold pastry puffs higher and flakes better. If your kitchen is warm, chill the cut squares on a tray for 10 minutes before shaping and baking.
- Use good-quality brie, but not an overly runny one. A young, slightly firm brie will soften and become melty without turning into a leak. If your brie is very ripe and runny, chill it slightly before slicing.
- A single thin slice of brie plus about 1/2 teaspoon of cranberry jam prevents spillover and ensures the pastry remains crisp.
- For a crunchy taste, sprinkle roughly chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top right after adding the jam.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dough to use for these baskets?
Store-bought puff pastry is ideal for speed and consistent results. If you prefer homemade pastry and have the time, classic puff pastry or laminated butter pastry gives the most buttery cups.
Can I use another cheese instead of brie?
Yes, Camembert works as a close substitute. For a sharper taste, try a thin slice of aged goat cheese or blue cheese mixed with a milder soft cheese. Just remember, stronger cheeses will dominate the cranberry sweetness.
How long will the baskets stay crisp after baking?
Freshly baked and filled, they’re best eaten within 30 minutes. The pastry will gradually soften as the cheese releases moisture. To revive crispness, reheat empty shells for 3-5 minutes in a hot oven, then fill and serve immediately.
How to Store Brie and Cranberry Baskets
Unfilled and baked shells can be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours. While filled baskets are best eaten within an hour. If you must refrigerate leftovers, place them in a shallow airtight container and refrigerate up to 24 hours, but the pastry will soften.
Ingredients
How to Make Brie and Cranberry Baskets
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Unroll the puff pastry and cut into squares, reserving a small portion of the pastry to cut into thin strips.
Unroll the puff pastry and cut into squares, reserving a small portion of the pastry to cut into thin strips.
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Place one square on a board. Take two strips and overlap them along opposite edges of the square to create raised sides.
Place one square on a board. Take two strips and overlap them along opposite edges of the square to create raised sides.
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Slice the brie into tiny pieces that will fit into the baskets.
Bake the baskets at 180°C/360°F for 15 minutes.
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Place a thin slice of brie into the bottom of each basket.
Slice the brie into tiny pieces that will fit into the baskets.
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Add cranberry jam on top of the brie.
Place a thin slice of brie into the bottom of each basket.
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Tuck a small rosemary sprig into each basket and arrange on a dish.
Add cranberry jam on top of the brie.
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Tuck a small rosemary sprig into each basket and arrange on a dish.
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