Welcome to the ultimate solution for stress-free entertaining: No Bake Cranberry Brie Bites. These delightful appetizers are incredibly simple to make, yet they offer an elegant touch to any gathering.
With just a few ingredients and about 10 minutes, you can create a stunning snack perfect for holiday parties, spontaneous get-togethers, or a sophisticated evening in. Get ready to impress your guests with these quick and delicious cranberry brie bites.
Table of Contents
No Bake Cranberry Brie Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Let brie sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes if very cold. Chop chives for garnish.
- Arrange 24 crackers on a serving platter with space in between.
- Slice brie into 24 bite-sized squares or triangles.
- Place one slice of brie on each cracker and press gently.
- Spoon a small dollop of cranberry sauce onto the brie on each cracker.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh chives on top for garnish.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use any cracker of your choice—Ritz, wheat thins, or gluten-free varieties work well.
- Brie can be substituted with camembert.
- Homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce both work.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love These No Bake Cranberry Brie Bites
You’ll quickly fall in love with these no-bake cranberry brie bites for many reasons. They are genuinely effortless, coming together in less than 10 minutes.
This recipe requires minimal ingredients, making your grocery list short and sweet. Each bite delivers an irresistible sweet and savory flavor combination that truly stands out.
These cranberry brie bites are incredibly versatile, fitting perfectly into casual game nights or elegant holiday feasts. Enjoy stress-free entertaining, knowing you have a gourmet appetizer ready in a flash.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious No Bake Cranberry Brie Bites:
- 24 crackers (e.g., Ritz, wheat thins)
- 7 ounces brie cheese (200 grams)
- 4 tablespoons cranberry sauce
- Fresh chives, for garnish
Notes & Substitutions
- You have flexibility with your cracker choice; feel free to use wheat thins, crostini, or even gluten-free options.
- For the brie, choose a softer, ripe brie for an extra creamy texture, but any firm brie works wonderfully too.
- Cranberry sauce can be homemade for a personal touch, or easily use your favorite store-bought variety, whether it’s whole berry or jelly.
- If chives aren’t available, fresh thyme or a tiny sprig of rosemary make excellent garnishes. Remember to adjust quantities if you’re hosting a larger crowd; this recipe is easily scalable.
Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools for these No Bake Cranberry Brie Bites. Grab a sturdy cutting board and a small, sharp knife to easily slice the brie cheese. A serving platter, or even a decorative plate, is essential for arranging your finished bites.
That’s it! Minimal equipment means minimal cleanup, keeping your kitchen tidy and your focus on enjoying your guests.
Instructions For No Bake Cranberry Brie Bites
Creating these elegant No Bake Cranberry Brie Bites is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect appetizer every time.
- Prepare Ingredients: First, ensure all your ingredients are ready. If your brie is very cold, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes; this makes it easier to slice cleanly. Finely chop your fresh chives for garnishing.
- Arrange Crackers: Lay out all 24 crackers on a large serving platter. Arrange them neatly, leaving a little space between each cracker for easy handling and an appealing presentation.
- Slice Brie: Carefully slice the brie cheese. Aim for small, bite-sized pieces that will fit nicely on top of your chosen crackers. Typically, a 7-ounce wheel yields about 24 small squares or triangles, depending on its shape.
- Top with Brie: Place one slice of brie cheese on top of each cracker. Press it down gently to ensure it stays in place.
- Add Cranberry Sauce: Spoon a small dollop of cranberry sauce onto the brie on each cracker. Use just enough to cover the brie without overflowing the cracker. A small spoon or a piping bag can help achieve a neat finish.
- Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of chopped fresh chives over each cranberry brie bite. This adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Serve Immediately: These delightful No Bake Cranberry Brie Bites are best enjoyed fresh. Serve them right away to preserve the crispness of the crackers and the optimal texture of the brie.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
For clean brie slicing, use a knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This prevents the cheese from sticking. To maintain cracker crispness, assemble the bites just before serving.
For the cranberry sauce, a slightly thicker consistency works best to prevent sogginess; if yours is too thin, gently warm it and reduce it slightly on the stovetop. For presentation, consider a tiered serving platter to add height and elegance to your spread.
Proper technique for slicing soft cheeses can prevent sticking and ensure clean cuts, enhancing the presentation of your appetizers. Discover more about slicing soft cheeses without sticking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t assemble your No Bake Cranberry Brie Bites too far ahead of time, as crackers can become soggy. Avoid overfilling the crackers with too much brie or cranberry sauce, which can make them messy and difficult to eat.
To prevent soggy crackers, always place the brie directly onto the cracker first, creating a barrier for the sauce.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
These no bake cranberry brie bites pair wonderfully with sparkling cider or cranberry spritzers. Get creative with alternative toppings such as fig jam, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of candied pecans for added crunch and sweetness. Consider using different cracker shapes or flavors, like multigrain or garlic herb, to change the profile.
For a slightly different texture, you can briefly warm the brie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before assembling, giving it a slightly melted, gooey center. These adaptable cranberry brie bites are perfect for holiday parties, elegant bridal showers, or even casual game day gatherings.
Nutrition Information
Please remember that the nutrition information provided is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific brands and exact portion sizes of ingredients used. For detailed and precise information, always refer to the specific product labels of your ingredients or consult a professional.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 46 kcal (2%) |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g (1%) |
| Protein | 2 g (4%) |
| Fat | 3 g (5%) |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g (13%) |
| Cholesterol | 8 mg (3%) |
| Sodium | 79 mg (3%) |
| Potassium | 16 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g (4%) |
| Sugar | 1 g (1%) |
| Vitamin A | 49 IU (1%) |
| Vitamin C | 1 mg (1%) |
| Calcium | 20 mg (2%) |
| Iron | 1 mg (6%) |
Cranberries are known for their health benefits, including high levels of antioxidants and vitamins that support overall wellness. Learn more about the health benefits of cranberries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients like slicing brie and chopping chives a few hours in advance. For the best crispness, assemble the no bake cranberry brie bites no more than 30 minutes before serving.
How do I transport them to a party?
Assemble the cranberry brie bites on a sturdy platter and cover it loosely with plastic wrap. Place the platter on a flat surface in your car to prevent sliding.
What are good cracker substitutes?
Wheat thins, water crackers, or even small toasted baguette slices (crostini) are excellent alternatives. Choose a cracker that complements the rich flavor of brie and cranberry.
Conclusion
These No Bake Cranberry Brie Bites truly embody simplicity and gourmet flavor, making them an indispensable appetizer for any occasion. Their incredible ease of preparation, combined with the delightful sweet and savory profile, ensures they’ll be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these quick cranberry brie bites will elevate your spread with minimal effort. Don’t hesitate to whip up a batch for your next event; you’ll love how simple and satisfying they are. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!
Looking for more comfort recipe like this? Come hang out with me over on Facebook and Pinterest where I drop new recipes, family favorites, and quick how-to guides almost every day.
1 thought on “No Bake Cranberry Brie Bites: Easy 10-Minute Appetizers”