Description
12 mini phyllo or puff pastry shells
4 oz Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 tsp honey
1 tsp orange zest
1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the pastry shells on a baking sheet.
Place a cube of Brie into each pastry shell.
In a small bowl, mix cranberry sauce, honey, and orange zest. Spoon a small amount over the Brie in each shell.
Sprinkle with fresh rosemary and chopped pecans if using.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these elegant and delicious tartlets warm!
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 12 minutes Total Time: 17 minutes Kcal: 120 per tartlet Servings: 12 tartlets
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect tartlets every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange 12 mini phyllo shells on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup. Cut 4 oz of Brie cheese into 12 small, even cubes, ensuring any thick rind is trimmed for smoother melting. Place one cube gently into each shell. In a small bowl, thoroughly combine ½ cup cranberry sauce, 1 tsp honey, and 1 tsp orange zest. Carefully spoon about 2 teaspoons of this mixture over each cheese cube. Sprinkle with 1 tbsp of freshly chopped rosemary and ¼ cup of chopped pecans for a nutty crunch. Bake on the middle rack for 10-12 minutes. Watch for the cheese to become completely molten and the pastry edges to turn a light golden brown. Allow to cool for 3-5 minutes before serving to avoid burns and to let the flavors settle.
Serving Suggestions
These tartlets are versatile for any occasion. For a holiday appetizer spread, pair them with other finger foods like meatballs or stuffed mushrooms. To elevate a casual gathering, serve them on a platter garnished with extra rosemary sprigs and orange slices. They pair beautifully with a crisp, dry sparkling wine, a chilled Chardonnay, or even a cranberry spritzer for a non-alcoholic option. For a balanced plate, serve alongside a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette.
How-to Summary
In brief: Preheat oven to 375°F. Fill 12 phyllo shells with Brie cubes. Top with a mix of cranberry sauce, honey, and orange zest. Sprinkle with rosemary and optional pecans. Bake for 10-12 minutes until bubbly. Cool slightly and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the tartlets (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Bake directly from the fridge, adding 1-2 extra minutes if needed.
Can I use a different cheese? Brie is ideal for its creamy melt, but Camembert is a direct substitute. For a stronger flavor, try a small piece of blue cheese or goat cheese.
My cranberry sauce is very thick. What should I do? If your sauce is chunky or too dense, warm it slightly and stir in a teaspoon of orange juice or water to achieve a more spoonable consistency.
Can I use frozen puff pastry instead of pre-made shells? Absolutely. Thaw a sheet of puff pastry, cut it into squares, and press into a mini muffin tin. Pre-bake for 5 minutes before adding the filling, then proceed.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes to restore crispness; avoid the microwave, which makes the pastry soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: Do not overfill the shells, as the cheese and sauce will bubble over and make the pastry soggy. Ensure your Brie cubes are small enough to fit without overflowing the rim. Do not skip the brief cooling period after baking—this allows the molten cheese to set slightly for cleaner serving. Using stale or improperly stored phyllo shells can result in a chewy texture, so check they are crisp before filling. Finally, avoid substituting dried rosemary for fresh, as it becomes tough and overly pungent when baked.
Conclusion
These Brie and Cranberry Phyllo Tartlets are the epitome of simple elegance, transforming just a few quality ingredients into a spectacular appetizer in under 20 minutes. The combination of rich, melted cheese, tangy-sweet cranberry, and aromatic rosemary is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any event. By following this enhanced guide and tips, you can confidently avoid common errors and tailor the recipe to your needs. Impress your guests with these warm, flavorful bites that taste far more complex than their effortless preparation suggests.