Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets: A Festive Appetizer

Name: Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) Refrigerated Pie Crusts; 4 ounces Brie Cheese (rind removed, cut into small pieces); 0.5 cup Fresh or Frozen Cranberries; 0.25 cup Red Onion (thinly sliced); 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Leaves; 0.25 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 Egg (beaten (for egg wash))

BY :

Evelyn Sullivan

Posted On :

October 14, 2025

Breakfast

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are the perfect appetizer for your next holiday gathering or a sophisticated weeknight snack. These delightful little bites combine the tartness of cranberries, the creamy richness of brie, and the subtle sweetness of red onion, all nestled in a flaky, buttery pastry shell. The combination of flavors and textures creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience that’s both elegant and surprisingly easy to make. Forget store-bought appetizers; these homemade tartlets will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. This recipe is a fantastic way to showcase seasonal ingredients in a unique and delicious way, and it’s versatile enough to be adapted to your own preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe remarkably straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning presentation and the delightful taste explosion in every bite! Let’s dive into the world of these irresistible savory cranberry and brie tartlets.

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

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets recipe. First and foremost, the flavor profile is simply divine. The tart cranberries provide a delightful counterpoint to the creamy, tangy brie, while the red onion adds a subtle sweetness and a pleasant bite. The fresh thyme elevates the entire dish with its earthy aroma, perfectly complementing the other ingredients. The combination is surprisingly harmonious, creating a complex yet balanced taste sensation that will tantalize your taste buds. The texture is just as appealing: the flaky, buttery pastry shell provides a wonderful contrast to the soft, melted brie and the slightly firm cranberries. Each bite offers a delightful interplay of textures, making these tartlets both satisfying and enjoyable.

Beyond the taste and texture, these Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are incredibly versatile. They can be served as an appetizer at a holiday party, a sophisticated snack with drinks, or even as a light lunch alongside a simple salad. Their elegant presentation makes them suitable for any occasion, from casual gatherings to more formal events. Furthermore, they’re remarkably easy to prepare. The recipe requires no complicated techniques or specialized equipment, making it accessible to even novice cooks. You can easily assemble these tartlets ahead of time and bake them just before serving, freeing up valuable time on busy days. This recipe offers a perfect balance of ease and elegance, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate both delicious food and convenient preparation. Finally, the beautiful presentation adds another layer of appeal. The golden-brown pastry shells filled with vibrant cranberries and creamy brie create a visually stunning appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. They’re almost too pretty to eat almost!

Why You Should Try This Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets Recipe

This Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets recipe is more than just a tasty treat; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to elevate your appetizer game, surprising your guests with a unique and flavorful dish that showcases your culinary skills. The recipe’s simplicity belies the sophisticated flavor combinations it achieves. It’s perfect for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The beautiful presentation ensures these tartlets are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate, making them ideal for both casual and formal gatherings. Beyond the immediate satisfaction of indulging in these delicious bites, this recipe also fosters a sense of accomplishment. Crafting these tartlets from scratch is incredibly rewarding and allows you to take pride in presenting a truly homemade delicacy to your loved ones.

Moreover, the recipe offers an opportunity to experiment and personalize. You can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking, adding different herbs, spices, or cheeses to create your own unique variation. Perhaps you’d like to try adding a sprinkle of pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or experimenting with a different type of cheese, like goat cheese or camembert. The possibilities are endless! Finally, the versatility of these tartlets extends beyond the initial serving. Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored and enjoyed cold the next day, making them a perfect make-ahead recipe for busy schedules. These savory cranberry and brie tartlets are not just a meal; they are a memorable experience, a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Pie Crust: 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts. Look for a high-quality, all-butter crust for the best flavor and flakiness. You can also make your own pie crust from scratch if you prefer, but the refrigerated variety significantly reduces preparation time. Keywords: pie crust, refrigerated pie crust, puff pastry
Brie Cheese: 4 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces. Brie’s creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor are perfect for these tartlets. Make sure to remove the rind before cutting into small, easily manageable pieces. Keywords: brie, cheese, soft cheese
Cranberries: 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries. Fresh cranberries offer the brightest flavor, but frozen cranberries work equally well in a pinch. If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them before using. Keywords: cranberries, fresh cranberries, frozen cranberries
Red Onion: 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion. Red onion adds a touch of sweetness and a pleasant bite, balancing the tartness of the cranberries and creaminess of the brie. Use a sharp knife to thinly slice the onion to avoid overpowering the other flavors. Keywords: red onion, shallots, onion
Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard. Dijon mustard adds a subtle tanginess that enhances the overall flavor profile. A good quality Dijon mustard will make a noticeable difference. Keywords: Dijon mustard, mustard
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon olive oil. Olive oil helps to coat the cranberries and onions, preventing them from sticking and ensuring even cooking. Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste. Keywords: olive oil, extra virgin olive oil
Thyme: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves. Fresh thyme offers a superior flavor and aroma compared to dried thyme. If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme. Keywords: thyme, fresh thyme, herbs
Salt and Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Salt and pepper enhance the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences. Keywords: salt, pepper, seasoning
Egg Wash (Optional): 1 egg, beaten. An egg wash is optional but adds a beautiful golden-brown sheen and helps the pastry crust brown evenly. Simply beat the egg lightly with a fork. Keywords: egg wash, egg, glaze

Mini Muffin Tin: A mini muffin tin is ideal for baking these tartlets, providing individual portions that are easy to serve. Lightly greasing the muffin tin or using paper liners will prevent the tartlets from sticking.
Cookie Cutter (or Knife): A 2 1/2-inch cookie cutter or a sharp knife for cutting out circles from the pie crust. A cookie cutter is more efficient but a knife will work fine.
Medium Bowl: A medium-sized bowl for mixing the cranberry filling.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring is crucial for baking. Use standard measuring cups and spoons to ensure the right proportions of ingredients.
Pastry Brush (Optional): If using an egg wash, a pastry brush makes it easy to apply evenly to the tartlets.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Preheat Oven and Prepare Tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners. This ensures even baking and easy removal of the tartlets.
Prepare the Cranberry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, red onion, Dijon mustard, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine. Don’t overmix; a gentle toss is sufficient to coat the ingredients.
Cut and Press Pie Crust: Unroll the refrigerated pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Use a 2 1/2-inch cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut out circles. Carefully press each circle into the prepared muffin tin cups, ensuring they fit snugly. Gently press the edges to create a secure seal, avoiding stretching the dough too much.
Fill the Tartlets: Divide the cranberry mixture evenly among the tartlet shells, filling each about ¾ full. Top each tartlet with a few pieces of brie cheese. Don’t overfill the tartlets; the brie will melt and expand during baking.
Apply Egg Wash (Optional): If desired, brush the tops of the tartlets with the beaten egg wash for a shiny finish and enhanced browning. Apply the egg wash lightly and evenly using a pastry brush.
Bake the Tartlets: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the brie is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the tartlets to prevent over-browning. Baking time may vary depending on your oven.
Cool and Serve: Let the tartlets cool in the tin for a few minutes before carefully removing them. Serve warm or at room temperature. Allowing the tartlets to cool slightly before removing them from the tin prevents them from breaking.

Tips and Variations for Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

This Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for many delicious variations. Experiment with different cheeses; goat cheese or camembert would be delightful substitutes for the brie. For added crunch, consider incorporating chopped pecans, walnuts, or even toasted slivered almonds into the cranberry mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the egg wash.

To make these tartlets gluten-free, use a gluten-free pie crust. Numerous brands offer excellent gluten-free alternatives in the market. If you’re looking for a vegan option, swap the brie for a vegan cream cheese alternative and use a vegan egg wash (flaxseed or chia seed meal mixed with water) instead of the traditional egg wash. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the herbs; rosemary or sage would also complement the cranberries and brie beautifully. Remember, the key to success is to not overfill the tartlets, as the filling will expand during baking. And finally, always keep a close eye on them while baking to prevent burning.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

While the exact nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, a single Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlet generally provides a moderate amount of calories, fat, protein, and carbohydrates. The brie cheese offers a good source of calcium and protein, contributing to bone health and muscle function. Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage from free radicals. They are also a good source of vitamin C and fiber, contributing to overall health and well-being. Red onion, although present in a small quantity, adds a beneficial boost of vitamin C, folate, and other essential nutrients. The combination of olive oil and thyme contributes healthy fats and flavorful antioxidants.

However, it’s important to note that brie cheese is relatively high in saturated fat. Therefore, these tartlets should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The pastry shell also contributes to the carbohydrate and fat content, so choosing a whole wheat or lower-fat pastry crust can help slightly reduce the overall calorie and fat content. Ultimately, these tartlets offer a balance of nutritional benefits and delicious flavors, encouraging mindful consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle. Always consider your individual dietary needs and preferences when incorporating new foods into your eating habits.

FAQs about Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets

Can I make these Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the tartlets ahead of time. Prepare the filling and assemble the tartlets in the muffin tin, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add about 5 minutes to the baking time to account for the chilling.

What can I substitute for brie cheese in these Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets?

Goat cheese, camembert, or even a creamy vegan cream cheese would be delicious substitutes for brie. Choose a cheese with a similar texture and mild flavor to maintain the overall balance of the tartlets.

How do I store leftover Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets?

Store leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are delicious served at room temperature or gently reheated.

Can I use frozen cranberries in these Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets?

Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly well. There is no need to thaw them before adding them to the filling.

Are these Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can easily make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust.

Conclusion

Savory Cranberry and Brie Tartlets are a culinary masterpiece that effortlessly blends sweet and savory flavors into a delightful appetizer. Their ease of preparation, stunning presentation, and incredible taste make them perfect for any occasion. From holiday gatherings to casual weeknight snacks, these tartlets will undoubtedly impress your guests and leave them craving more. Remember to experiment with different variations to personalize the recipe and make it your own. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations on social media using #SavoryCranberryBrieTartlets! For more delicious recipes, check out our other articles on peanut butter cookies and our recipe blog Happy baking!