Perfect Xmas Appetizers for Easy Holiday Gatherings
These festive appetizers are quick, easy, and brimming with holiday flavors, perfect for cozy family nights or cocktail parties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients
- Puff pastry, thawed
- Brie cheese
- Fresh cranberries
- Brown sugar
- Honey
- Walnuts, crushed (optional)
- Fresh rosemary
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Cherry tomatoes
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh basil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease your mini muffin tin.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface. Cut into small squares or circles to fit into the mini muffin tin. Gently press each piece into the tin.
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of fresh cranberries, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of water. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- Place a small piece of brie into each puff pastry cup. Top with a teaspoon of cranberry mixture, a sprinkle of crushed walnuts, and a drizzle of honey. Garnish with a small sprig of rosemary.
- Thread cherry tomatoes, small mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the mini muffin tin in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the brie is melted. Remove and let cool slightly.
- Arrange the cranberry brie bites and caprese skewers on a festive platter. Add some extra rosemary sprigs or holiday-themed decorations for a picture-perfect presentation.
Notes
[‘Keep puff pastry cold but pliable; if it gets too soft, refrigerate for a few minutes.’, ‘Don’t overfill the puff pastry cups to prevent spilling during baking.’, ‘Taste and adjust the sweetness of the cranberry topping with brown sugar or orange juice.’, ‘Prepare caprese skewers ahead of time but drizzle olive oil just before serving.’, ‘Use fresh rosemary sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.’]
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 appetizer
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
Keywords: Xmas appetizers, holiday recipes, festive food, cranberry brie bites, caprese skewers, easy appetizers