These irresistible little pastries are pure holiday magic — crisp, buttery puff pastry filled with creamy richness and topped with jewel-like cranberry sauce. With just 3 simple ingredients, they come together effortlessly but taste like something straight out of a bakery. Perfect for parties, brunches, or cozy evenings by the fire, they’re the kind of treat everyone will remember and ask for year after year.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed but still cold
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened) or mascarpone
- ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 3-inch squares or rounds using a cookie cutter.
- Lightly score a smaller circle in the center of each piece (don’t cut through) to create a rim.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese into the center, followed by a small dollop of cranberry sauce.
- Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and brush the edges lightly with beaten egg for shine if desired.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly, then sprinkle with a touch of powdered sugar or fresh thyme leaves for garnish if you like.
Tips & Variations
- Flavor Swap: Replace cranberry sauce with raspberry jam, cherry preserves, or lemon curd.
- Citrus Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of orange zest to the cream cheese for a fresh flavor.
- Savory Option: Use brie cheese and caramelized onions instead of cream cheese and cranberry sauce for a gourmet appetizer.
- Festive Finish: Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving or top with fresh rosemary for a holiday look.
Serving Suggestion
Serve these warm or at room temperature with a cup of tea, mulled wine, or champagne. They make an elegant addition to brunch tables, dessert platters, or Christmas buffets.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the pastries a few hours before baking and refrigerate until ready to bake.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 6 hours, then bake fresh before serving. They taste best when served warm.
Q: What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?
A: You can substitute with raspberry jam, cherry preserves, strawberry compote, or even fig spread — all pair beautifully with the creamy filling.
Q: Can I use frozen puff pastry straight from the freezer?
A: It’s best to let puff pastry thaw in the fridge until pliable but still cold. Using it frozen will cause uneven puffing and cracks.
Q: How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
A: Don’t overfill the centers, and keep the filling within the scored circle. Also, make sure the puff pastry edges are slightly higher to hold everything in.
Q: Can I freeze these pastries?
A: Yes! Freeze unbaked pastries on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 3–5 minutes to the bake time.
Q: What cheese works best besides cream cheese?
A: Mascarpone offers a silkier, richer flavor. Ricotta or even brie can also be used for a softer, more luxurious texture.
Conclusion
Holiday Heaven Bites prove that the simplest recipes can be the most enchanting. With their golden layers, creamy centers, and bright cranberry topping, they capture the essence of festive comfort — effortless, elegant, and unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, these little bites will bring instant holiday joy to every table.