Go Back
Adam

Cranberry Brie Cups with Pecans – Elegant, Bite-Sized Appetizers for Any Celebration

These Cranberry Brie Cups with Pecans are the definition of effortless elegance. Crisp, flaky pastry filled with creamy Brie, sweet-tart cranberry, citrusy orange notes, and crunchy pecans—each bite delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. They look fancy enough for holidays and parties, yet they’re incredibly simple to prepare. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, festive gatherings, or cozy entertaining at home, these mini cups are always the first to disappear from the table. The contrast between warm melted Brie and bright cranberry makes them irresistible, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch that elevates the whole dish. If you’re searching for easy party appetizers, bite-sized holiday food, or crowd-pleasing finger foods, these cranberry Brie cups deserve a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
bake time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 appetizer cups
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • All ingredients are simple accessible, and perfectly balanced.
  • 1 8 oz tube crescent roll dough
  • Flour for dusting
  • 6 oz Brie cheese cut into small cubes
  • ¼ cup cranberry sauce
  • ¼ cup orange marmalade
  • ¼ cup pecans roughly chopped
  • Fresh rosemary leaves or small candied orange pieces for garnish

Equipment

  • Muffin tin (12-cup)
  • Rolling Pin
  • Knife or pizza cutter
  • Spoon
  • Small bowl
  • Pastry brush (optional)

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a muffin tin or use a non-stick pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
  1. Lightly dust your work surface with flour. Unroll the crescent roll dough and gently press the seams together to form a single sheet.
Step 3: Cut the Dough
  1. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 12 equal squares.
Step 4: Shape the Cups
  1. Press each dough square into a muffin cup, gently pushing it down and up the sides to form a small cup.
Step 5: Add the Brie
  1. Place one cube of Brie cheese into the center of each dough cup.
Step 6: Mix the Topping
  1. In a small bowl, stir together the cranberry sauce and orange marmalade until combined.
Step 7: Fill the Cups
  1. Spoon a small amount of the cranberry mixture over the Brie in each cup.
Step 8: Add Pecans
  1. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top of each filled cup.
Step 9: Bake
  1. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
  1. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh rosemary leaves or candied orange pieces before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven at low heat until warm and crisp again.
Avoid microwaving to preserve the flaky texture.
🥄 Variations
Customize your cranberry Brie cups with these ideas:
Extra Crunch: Add more pecans or mix with walnuts.
Sweeter Bite: Use extra orange marmalade.
Herb Twist: Sprinkle finely chopped rosemary into the filling.
Mini Cups: Cut dough into smaller squares for bite-size versions.
Holiday Touch: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cranberry mixture.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?
Yes, puff pastry works beautifully.
Do I need to remove the rind from Brie?
No, the rind is edible and melts well.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Assemble ahead and bake just before serving.
Are these sweet or savory?
A perfect balance of both.
Can kids enjoy these?
Yes, the flavors are mild and friendly.
Why use orange marmalade?
It adds brightness and depth to the cranberry.
Do they freeze well?
Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term.
Can I use other nuts?
Yes, any chopped nuts work.
How do I prevent soggy bottoms?
Don’t overfill with sauce.
Are these good for parties?
Absolutely—ideal finger food.
🏁 Conclusion
These Cranberry Brie Cups with Pecans are proof that a stunning appetizer doesn’t need complicated steps or fancy ingredients. With flaky pastry, creamy cheese, sweet-tart filling, and crunchy nuts, they deliver big flavor in a small, elegant bite.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, planning a romantic gathering, or just treating yourself to something special, these cups are guaranteed to impress—and disappear fast.