Name: Cranberry Brie Tarts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487700H4M45S
Total time: PT-487700H4M45S
Cuisine: American / Holiday
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon salted butter, melted; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 2–4 tablespoons brown sugar, to taste (2 tablespoons recommended); 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 sheets (1 box) frozen puff pastry, thawed; 2 (8-ounce) wheels of Brie, each cut into 12 slices (rind left on); 1/3 cup fig preserves; 1 egg, beaten; Coarse sugar, for sprinkling; Fresh thyme, for serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s simple yet impressive. The puff pastry gives a light, flaky texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy Brie and tart cranberries. Fig preserves add a touch of sweetness, while cinnamon warms the flavor profile. These tarts are ideal for holiday gatherings, parties, or anytime you want a bite-sized treat that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

(Tip: Full measurements are in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon salted butter, melted
2 cups fresh cranberries
2–4 tablespoons brown sugar, to taste (2 tablespoons recommended)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 sheets (1 box) frozen puff pastry, thawed
2 (8-ounce) wheels of Brie, each cut into 12 slices (rind left on)
1/3 cup fig preserves
1 egg, beaten
Coarse sugar, for sprinkling
Fresh thyme, for serving

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add cranberries, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries start to pop and soften. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Roll out puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 12 squares. Place squares on the prepared baking sheet.
Top each puff pastry square with a slice of Brie. Spoon a small amount of fig preserves over the Brie, followed by a spoonful of the cranberry mixture.
Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle coarse sugar over the top for extra sparkle.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, until puff pastry is golden and crispy, and the Brie is melted.
Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 24 tarts.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15–18 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

Add a drizzle of honey over the tarts for extra sweetness.
Use raspberry or apricot preserves instead of fig for a different flavor twist.
Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pistachios or pecans, on top for crunch.
Make mini tartlets by cutting puff pastry into smaller squares.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to refresh the puff pastry and melt the cheese.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, just thaw them slightly and drain any excess liquid before cooking.

Do I have to leave the Brie rind on?

Yes, it helps the slice hold its shape while baking and adds flavor, but you can remove it if preferred.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the tarts on the baking sheet and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free puff pastry.

Can I freeze these tarts?

Yes, freeze assembled (unbaked) tarts on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Cranberry Brie Tarts are a festive, flavorful, and easy-to-make treat that impresses every time. With flaky puff pastry, melty Brie, sweet fig preserves, and tangy cranberries, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or any occasion that calls for a little indulgence. Serve warm with fresh thyme for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.