Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Stars

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These little stars are fast, festive, and impossible to mess up. With just a sheet of puff pastry, creamy brie, and bright cranberry sauce you can throw together an elegant appetizer in under 30 minutes. The assembly is straightforward and the results are flaky, melty, and crowd pleasing. Perfect for busy hosts, last minute guests, or a simple weeknight treat.

Why This Recipe Works

Puff pastry does most of the work by providing ready made layers that bake up crisp and golden without any laminating. Brie melts beautifully and creates a creamy center that pairs perfectly with the tart sweetness of cranberry sauce. Using star cutouts makes the bites attractive and uniform so they bake evenly. The recipe uses minimal ingredients and simple steps, which keeps prep time short and cleanup easy. Egg wash adds professional looking shine and a little seasoning elevates the overall flavor. Small changes like slicing the brie thin or using a heaping teaspoon of cranberry let you control richness and sweetness quickly.

Flavor & Texture

Each bite gives a contrast between a buttery, flaky shell and a soft, warm center of cheese and jam like cranberry. The brie becomes silky and spreadable while the cranberry sauce adds a pop of brightness that cuts the richness. The egg wash gives a pleasing golden finish that looks as good as it tastes. A sprinkle of fresh herbs after baking adds a light herbaceous note and a touch of color. Overall these stars balance sweet, salty, and creamy textural elements in a single handheld piece.

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry
4 ounces brie cheese
1/2 cup cranberry sauce
1 egg (for egg wash)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

Step by Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into star shapes using a cookie cutter.
Place half of the star cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
On each star, place a slice of brie and a small dollop of cranberry sauce.
Top with the remaining star cutouts and press the edges to seal.
Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Serve warm.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Buy puff pastry frozen and thaw it in the refrigerator the day before to save time on work day. Pre cut the brie into thin slices so each bite melts evenly and avoids overflow. Use store bought cranberry sauce or flavored jam to skip extra prep. If you only have a large cookie cutter use a sharp knife to trim neat edges. Brush the egg wash lightly to avoid soggy spots and rotate the baking sheet halfway through for uniform color.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store leftover stars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two to three days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes to restore flakiness rather than using a microwave. To freeze for later assemble on a baking sheet and flash freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer safe bag for up to one month. Bake from frozen with an extra five minutes and watch for golden color.

Short Closing Note

These cranberry brie stars are a shortcut to something impressive without the fuss. They work as a quick snack, an elegant appetizer, or a simple party pass around.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.