Perfect Mini Brie Pastry Cups – Easy Holiday Appetizer Recipe

Posted on November 25, 2025

Introduction

There’s something downright magical about the scent of buttery pastry mingling with creamy brie and sweet winter jam wafting through the kitchen. The first time I made these mini brie pastry cups, I remember pausing mid-whisk, closing my eyes, and thinking—this is holiday comfort wrapped in golden perfection. I’d been hunting for an appetizer that looked fancy but didn’t require me to lose my mind before guests arrived, and these little gems fit the bill perfectly.

It all started on a snowy December evening when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, helping my grandmother roll out puff pastry for her famous cheese bites. She always said, “A good appetizer should make folks smile before dinner even begins.” Years later, I found myself recreating that memory with a modern twist—adding a spoonful of jam to balance the brie’s richness. The result? A bite that’s warm, flaky, and bursting with creamy sweetness.

My family couldn’t stop sneaking them off the cooling rack (and honestly, I couldn’t blame them). They’ve since become a staple for our holiday gatherings—perfect for potlucks, cozy dinners, or even gifting in a cute tin. I’ve tested this recipe more times than I’d like to admit (in the name of research, of course), and each time it feels like a warm hug in pastry form. So if you’re craving something dangerously easy yet impressive enough for a festive spread, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s face it, the holidays can be chaotic—so any recipe that brings joy without stress is a keeper. These mini brie pastry cups are my go-to for when I want something that wows guests but doesn’t keep me glued to the stove. I’ve tested countless variations, but this version always hits the sweet spot between elegance and simplicity.

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these little bites are perfect for last-minute entertaining or spontaneous celebrations.
Simple Ingredients: You won’t need anything fancy—just puff pastry, brie, and your favorite jam (I love fig or cranberry).
Perfect for Holidays: Ideal for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or any winter party spread.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike adore the buttery crunch and gooey center.
Unbelievably Delicious: The combo of flaky pastry, creamy cheese, and sweet jam is pure comfort food magic.

What sets this recipe apart is the subtle layering technique—chilling the pastry before baking keeps it crisp, while cutting the brie into small cubes ensures every bite melts evenly. Honestly, it’s the kind of appetizer that makes people stop mid-conversation and ask, “Wait, what are these?” And that’s the best compliment of all. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want something cozy for a movie night, these pastry cups deliver the kind of flavor that feels special yet totally effortless.

Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a bite-sized masterpiece that’s equal parts creamy, flaky, and fruity. Most of what you need is already sitting in your fridge or pantry.

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (store-bought works perfectly)
6 oz (170 g) brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small cubes
1/4 cup (60 ml) winter jam (cranberry, fig, or apricot are lovely choices)
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
1 egg, beaten (for brushing the pastry)
1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional, adds a lovely herbal note)
Pinch of sea salt (balances the sweetness beautifully)

Ingredient Notes: If you prefer a savory twist, try using onion jam or balsamic glaze instead of fruit jam. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute gluten-free puff pastry dough. I recommend using a creamy, mild brie—brands like Président or Trader Joe’s double cream brie melt wonderfully. If you’re vegan, swap the brie for a plant-based alternative like cashew cheese and use dairy-free puff pastry.

These ingredients work together to create that irresistible balance of texture and flavor—crispy pastry, silky brie, and a touch of sweet jam. Nothing complicated, just pure holiday joy in bite-sized form.

Equipment Needed

Mini muffin tin (a 24-cup pan is ideal for bite-size portions)
Rolling pin (for gently flattening the pastry)
Sharp knife or pastry cutter (to cut neat squares)
Pastry brush (for brushing on the egg wash)
Small spoon (for adding jam)
Cooling rack (to avoid soggy bottoms)

I’ve made these using silicone muffin trays and they pop out effortlessly, but a well-greased metal pan works too. If you’re short on equipment, you can even use mini tart shells. Just remember to clean your muffin tin soon after baking—dried jam can be stubborn!

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your mini muffin tin or line with parchment squares.
Prepare the puff pastry: On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the pastry sheet until it’s smooth and even. Cut into 2-inch (5 cm) squares.
Fit the pastry squares: Press each square gently into the muffin tin wells, letting the corners fold up slightly. It’s okay if they look rustic—it adds charm.
Add the brie: Place one cube of brie in each pastry cup. Try not to overfill or the cheese will bubble over (a little overflow is fine though—it caramelizes nicely).
Spoon in the jam: Add about 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen winter jam on top of the brie. Cranberry gives a festive color, while fig adds richness.
Brush with egg wash: Lightly brush the pastry edges with beaten egg for a glossy golden finish.
Sprinkle thyme and salt: Add a few fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of sea salt on top for balance.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, until puffed and golden. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is bubbly and the pastry edges look crisp.
Cool slightly: Let them rest for 5 minutes in the pan before transferring to a cooling rack. This helps the pastry firm up and prevents sogginess.
Optional drizzle: Just before serving, drizzle a touch of honey or balsamic glaze for added shine and flavor.

Pro Tip: If your pastry puffs unevenly, prick the bottoms lightly with a fork before filling. And keep the pastry cold until ready to bake—it’s the secret to flaky layers.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Through all my trial runs, I’ve learned a few golden rules for perfect mini brie pastry cups. First, cold pastry equals crisp pastry. Don’t let it sit out too long or it’ll get sticky and lose its puff.

Use chilled dough: Keep puff pastry refrigerated until you’re ready to fill and bake.
Don’t skip the egg wash: It gives that irresistible golden sheen and helps seal the edges.
Balance the jam: Too much jam can overflow; a small spoonful is just right.
Rotate your pan halfway: This ensures even browning, especially if your oven has hot spots.
Serve warm: Brie tastes best when slightly melted—reheat for 5 minutes before serving if needed.

I once tried baking these at 400°F thinking higher heat meant faster results—big mistake! The pastry browned too quickly while the brie stayed firm. So, stick with 375°F for the perfect melt. You’ll also want to experiment with jams; I’ve tried pear preserves and even spicy pepper jelly for a fun kick. Each variation teaches you something new about balance and texture.

Variations & Adaptations

Seasonal Variation: In summer, swap winter jam for peach or raspberry preserves. Add a mint leaf for brightness.
Savory Twist: Use caramelized onions or tomato jam instead of fruit for a deeper flavor profile.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace brie with vegan cream cheese or nut-based cheese. Use dairy-free puff pastry and brush with plant milk instead of egg wash.

One of my favorite personal variations includes adding a small piece of prosciutto beneath the brie for a salty contrast—my guests go wild for it! You can also sprinkle chopped pistachios or walnuts on top before baking for a nutty crunch. This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so don’t be afraid to get creative with whatever you have on hand.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these mini brie pastry cups warm, straight from the oven, when the brie is oozy and the pastry still crisp. They look stunning on a wooden serving board garnished with rosemary sprigs or fresh cranberries.

Pair them with a glass of sparkling wine or a cozy mug of mulled cider for the ultimate festive touch. If you’re prepping ahead, bake them earlier and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before serving—they’ll taste just as fresh.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To freeze, place cooled cups in a single layer on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat from frozen at 350°F until warm and crisp. Honestly, they’re just as delightful the next day.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each pastry cup contains approximately 120–140 calories, depending on the jam used. You’ll get a balance of carbs from the pastry, healthy fats from the brie, and antioxidants from fruit preserves.

Brie offers calcium and protein, while puff pastry provides energy for those long winter evenings. If you choose jams like cranberry or fig, you’ll also benefit from natural fiber and vitamins. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat brie or skip the honey drizzle. It’s a small indulgence that fits beautifully into a balanced diet.

Conclusion

These mini brie pastry cups with winter jam are the kind of recipe that feels festive without being fussy. They’re elegant enough for a holiday table yet easy enough for a weeknight treat. Every bite brings together buttery pastry, creamy brie, and a touch of fruity sweetness that just feels like home.

I love making these for friends and family because they always spark conversation and smiles. So go ahead—make a batch, play around with your favorite jams, and share the joy. If you try them, let me know in the comments what flavor combo you used. I bet you’ll find your own signature version before long!

Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with warmth, laughter, and plenty of pastry cups!

FAQs

Can I make mini brie pastry cups ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving for best results.

What type of jam works best?

Cranberry, fig, or apricot jam pair beautifully with brie’s creamy texture. Choose one that’s slightly tart for balance.

Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?

Absolutely. Just layer 3 sheets of phyllo with melted butter and cut into squares for a crispier texture.

How do I prevent the cheese from overflowing?

Use small cubes of brie and don’t overfill the cups—just enough to melt evenly without spilling.

Are these mini brie pastry cups freezer-friendly?

Yes, they freeze well. Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven until warm and crisp again.

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