Gooey Cranberry Brie Bites

This cranberry brie bomb recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible holiday appetizer that perfectly balances creamy cheese with sweet-tart cranberry. The buttery biscuit exterior creates a golden, crispy shell that gives way to a gooey, flavorful center that will disappear quickly from any holiday spread.

I first made these for a last minute holiday gathering when I needed something quick but impressive. The plate was empty within minutes and now these little bombs have become my signature holiday appetizer that everyone requests by name.

Ingredients

• Brie wheel the creamier the better for that perfect gooey center when melted
• Refrigerated biscuit dough saves time while providing the perfect buttery vessel
• Cranberry sauce use homemade for extra points or quality store bought works great too
• Butter enhances the golden exterior and carries the herb flavors
• Fresh thyme adds an earthy aromatic note that balances the sweet cranberry
• Fresh rosemary provides piney fragrance that makes these feel distinctly festive
• Flaky sea salt creates the perfect finish with little bursts of flavor enhancement

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Your Workspace

Preheat your oven to exactly 375°F and line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Take the brie from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before cutting to make it easier to handle but not so warm that it becomes too soft.

Prepare The Biscuit Rounds

Take each biscuit and gently press it flat between your palms before slicing horizontally with a sharp knife to create two thin rounds. Work carefully as the dough can be sticky. If needed dust your hands with a tiny bit of flour to prevent sticking.

Fill The Bombs

Place a small teaspoon of cranberry sauce in the center of each round being careful not to overfill. Add a cube of brie directly on top of the cranberry sauce keeping the filling toward the center with space around the edges for sealing.

Create The Perfect Seal

Gather the edges of each biscuit round up and over the filling bringing them together at the top. Pinch firmly to create a tight seal ensuring no filling can escape during baking. Place each bomb seam side down on your prepared baking sheet leaving about an inch between each.

Add Herbed Butter

Combine your melted butter with the freshly chopped herbs in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush generously coat each bomb with this fragrant mixture ensuring the entire surface is covered for maximum flavor and golden color.

Bake To Golden Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes watching carefully toward the end. Look for a deep golden color and listen for a hollow sound when tapped lightly which indicates they are perfectly baked.

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My absolute favorite moment with these bombs was watching my cheese hating nephew take a reluctant bite only to grab three more immediately. The magic of melted brie converted him instantly and now he specifically asks if I am bringing my special cheese bombs to family gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These cranberry brie bombs can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance making them perfect for busy holiday entertaining. After assembling simply place them on a baking sheet cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to serve brush with the herb butter mixture straight from the refrigerator and bake adding about 3 extra minutes to the cooking time to account for the chilled dough.

Creative Variations

While cranberry and brie create a classic holiday pairing this recipe welcomes delicious variations. Try substituting fig jam raspberry preserves or apple butter for the cranberry sauce. For the cheese camembert offers a slightly stronger flavor while goat cheese provides a tangy alternative. You can also add a small piece of prosciutto or a sprinkle of chopped walnuts before sealing for additional texture and flavor dimensions.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange these golden bombs on a wooden board scattered with fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberries for a festive presentation. They pair beautifully with a glass of prosecco or a light pinot noir. For a complete holiday appetizer spread serve alongside a charcuterie board spiced nuts and a selection of winter citrus. Consider offering a small bowl of extra cranberry sauce on the side for those who enjoy additional tanginess.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your bombs are leaking during baking you likely overfilled them or didnt seal them properly. Use slightly less filling next time and ensure you create a tight pinch at the seam. If the tops are browning too quickly before the dough is fully cooked cover loosely with foil for the remainder of the baking time. For extra insurance against leaking refrigerate the assembled bombs for 15 minutes before baking to firm up the dough.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these Cranberry Brie Bombs ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply brush with the herb butter and bake. You may need to add 2-3 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

→ What can I substitute for cranberry sauce?

Fig jam, raspberry preserves, or caramelized onion chutney all work beautifully with brie. Each option creates a different but equally delicious flavor profile while maintaining that perfect sweet-savory balance.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Microwave reheating is possible but may make the biscuit dough slightly tough.

→ Can I freeze these brie bombs?

Yes! Freeze them unbaked on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 5-7 minutes to the baking time, until golden and heated through.

→ What herbs can I use instead of thyme and rosemary?

Sage, oregano, or tarragon work well as alternatives. For a sweeter version, try cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg in the butter mixture. You can also omit herbs entirely and add a sprinkle of coarse sugar for a more dessert-like option.

→ What's the best way to serve these Cranberry Brie Bombs?

Serve them warm from the oven when the brie is still gooey. They're perfect as part of a holiday appetizer spread, alongside a winter salad, or as a starter for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. For extra indulgence, provide a small bowl of extra cranberry sauce for dipping.