Ingredients:
1 wheel of brie cheese (8 oz)
1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought)
2 tablespoons cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the puff pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut the puff pastry into small circles, about the size of the brie wheel. You should get about 6-8 circles, depending on the size of your brie wheel.
Prepare the brie:
Cut the brie into small, bite-sized wedges, removing the rind if desired (the rind is edible, but you can remove it for a creamier result).
Assemble the bites:
Place a wedge of brie in the center of each puff pastry circle. Top with a small spoonful of cranberry sauce. Fold the puff pastry around the brie and cranberry sauce, pinching the edges to seal them.
Make the pecan topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Spoon the mixture onto the top of each brie bite.
Egg wash:
In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the pastry to give them a golden, glossy finish.
Bake:
Place the assembled brie bites on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and flaky, and the brie is melted and gooey inside.
Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Tip:
For an added touch, you can drizzle a bit more maple syrup over the tops of the bites after baking for an extra sweet finish. These bites pair wonderfully with a glass of white wine or champagne.