Elevate your entertaining game with these irresistibly delicious Raspberry Brie Bites – an absolute showstopper at any cocktail party, elegant gathering, or casual game day event! Crafted with simplicity in mind, these gourmet-looking appetizers are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced hosts alike. Imagine delicate, flaky shells cradling creamy melted Brie, perfectly complemented by the sweet-tart burst of fresh raspberries and a hint of fragrant rosemary. Every bite is a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your guests reaching for more and, inevitably, asking for the recipe! This Brie appetizer not only offers unparalleled taste but also provides a brilliant solution for utilizing any leftover Brie cheese you might have from a previous cheese board. It’s an elegant, bite-sized starter that consistently earns rave reviews and disappears from the serving tray in record time.
Why You Must Make These Raspberry Brie Bites
When planning your next gathering, big or small, you absolutely *must* include these delectable Raspberry Brie Bites on your menu. Here’s why they stand out as the ultimate party food:
- A Savvy Solution for Leftover Brie: Say goodbye to wasted cheese! This recipe is ingeniously designed to make the most of that partial wedge of Brie lingering in your refrigerator. Instead of letting it go to waste, transform it into a spectacular snack that tastes incredibly fresh and refined. It’s an economical and delicious way to ensure every morsel of your gourmet cheese finds its purpose.
- The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser for Any Event: Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party, a bustling holiday celebration, a bridal shower, or a lively game day get-together, these Brie bites are guaranteed to be devoured. Their perfect individual portion size makes them ideal finger food, eliminating the need for plates and forks and ensuring they’ll be the first to disappear. Don’t be surprised if your guests rave about their deliciousness and eagerly ask for the recipe before the night is over!
- Effortless Elegance – A Simpler Baked Brie: While a full baked Brie en croute is undeniably impressive, it can sometimes be a bit cumbersome to serve, especially at larger events. These mini Brie tarts offer all the luxurious flavor of classic baked Brie but in a more convenient, less messy, and equally elegant format. No struggling with a knife or messy portions – just perfectly contained, delicious bites that are a joy to pick up and savor.
- Quick Preparation, Maximum Impact: With minimal prep time (around 15 minutes) and a short bake (just 10-12 minutes), you can have a batch of these delectable treats ready in under 30 minutes. This incredible speed makes them ideal for last-minute entertaining or when you need an impressive appetizer without spending hours in the kitchen. They look complex but are deceptively simple to assemble.
- Visually Stunning Presentation: The vibrant red of fresh raspberries against the golden, crisp crust and creamy white melted Brie, perhaps beautifully accented with a sprig of fresh green rosemary, creates an aesthetically pleasing appetizer that enhances any food spread. They look gourmet without any complex culinary effort, adding a touch of sophisticated charm to your table.
For years, my go-to impressive appetizer has been a classic baked Brie, generously topped with an irresistible combination of fresh raspberries, sweet jam, and a delicate hint of rosemary, all lovingly encased in a golden, buttery puff pastry. It’s a dish that never fails to impress, and if by some miracle there are any leftovers, my husband Bill is always thrilled to enjoy a luxurious pre-dinner nibble – ensuring not a single crumb goes to waste. The sheer indulgence of a warm, gooey baked Brie is truly unmatched.
However, the idea of translating that same magnificent flavor profile into a more manageable, bite-sized form has always captivated me. While the full-sized baked Brie is wonderful for a centerpiece, I craved something equally elegant but more practical for mingling guests. My initial experiments involved individual puff pastry shells, aiming for that familiar flaky texture. While undeniably delicious, the result was often a bit of a ‘greasy mess’ – rich, buttery, but not quite the clean, elegant finger food I envisioned for a sophisticated spread. Handling individual puff pastry shells proved challenging, often leading to a slight greasiness that clung to fingers, detracting from the overall refined experience.
It was this pursuit of the perfect, mess-free bite that led me to discover the magic of mini phyllo shells and wonton skins. These alternatives offer a fantastic crispness and structure without the excessive greasiness of puff pastry. Phyllo shells, with their delicate, paper-thin layers, bake up to a beautiful golden crisp, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy Brie. Wonton skins, when lightly brushed with a neutral oil, transform into a wonderfully crisp and sturdy cup, perfectly holding the luscious filling. This evolution in the recipe design ensures that each Raspberry Brie Bite is not only incredibly flavorful but also impeccably presented and delightful to eat, making them an ideal choice for any occasion where you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredient Notes for Perfect Raspberry Brie Bites
Crafting the perfect Raspberry Brie Bites relies on selecting quality ingredients and understanding how each component contributes to the overall exquisite flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some helpful tips for each:
- Wonton Skins or Frozen Phyllo Shells: These are the foundation of our delightful mini tarts. Both options work beautifully, offering a crisp, golden base that contrasts wonderfully with the soft, melted Brie.
- Phyllo Shells (Filo Shells): You can typically find pre-made phyllo (filo) shells in the freezer section of most grocery stores, often located near frozen desserts or puff pastry. Brands like Athens are widely available and come conveniently pre-formed, usually with about 15 shells per box. They bake up incredibly light, airy, and flaky, providing a delicate crunch.
- Wonton Skins: Found in the refrigerated section, often near fresh pasta, tofu, or spring roll wrappers. Wonton wrappers are slightly thicker and more pliable than phyllo. When brushed with oil and baked, they become wonderfully crisp and hold their shape well, creating a more substantial ‘cup’ for your filling. If using wonton skins, you’ll need to gently press them into the mini muffin tin to form a cup before adding the filling.
- Vegetable Oil: This is essential only if you opt for wonton skins. A light brush of vegetable oil on each wonton skin before baking helps achieve that desirable crisp texture and prevents them from sticking to the muffin tin.
- Why Vegetable Oil?: We recommend a neutral-flavored oil like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil. These oils won’t impart any unwanted flavors to your delicate appetizer, allowing the Brie and raspberry to truly shine. They also have a higher smoke point compared to olive oil, which is important for baking at higher temperatures without burning.
- Brie Cheese: The absolute star of the show! Brie is a rich, creamy, and buttery soft-ripened cheese that melts into a luxurious consistency, creating the heart of these irresistible bites.
- Leftover Brie is Perfect: This recipe is fantastic for using up that last wedge of Brie. While fresh Brie works wonderfully, it’s particularly satisfying to transform leftover cheese into something new and exciting, preventing food waste.
- To Remove the Rind or Not?: The rind of Brie is perfectly edible and adds a slightly earthy flavor and textural contrast. Whether you choose to remove it is entirely a matter of personal preference. For a smoother, more uniform melted texture, some prefer to trim it off. For those who enjoy the rustic charm and subtle funk that the rind provides, leaving it on is perfectly fine!
- Brie Selection: Choose a good quality Brie, whether a traditional French Brie de Meaux or a locally produced artisan variety. Ensure it’s not overly ripe (which can become too pungent and runny) or under-ripe (which will be too firm and lack creaminess).
- Raspberry Preserves or Jam: Provides the perfect balance of sweet and tart, cutting through the richness of the Brie and adding a burst of fruity flavor.
- Brand Recommendation: I often use Bonne Maman brand for its high fruit content and natural flavor, but any good quality raspberry preserve or jam will work. The key is a vibrant, fruity taste with genuine raspberry notes.
- Preserves vs. Jam: Preserves typically contain whole or large pieces of fruit, offering more texture, while jam is generally smoother. Either texture works exceptionally well in this recipe, so use what you prefer or have on hand.
- Fresh Raspberries: Used both in the filling mixture and as an optional, but highly recommended, fresh garnish to enhance both flavor and visual appeal.
- Selection: Look for plump, firm, and brightly colored berries. Avoid any that are bruised, moldy, or shriveled. Fresh raspberries add a burst of juicy flavor and a beautiful visual appeal, especially when scattered on top just before serving, creating a vibrant contrast.
- Fresh Rosemary: This aromatic herb adds an exquisite, slightly piney, and earthy note that perfectly balances the sweetness of the raspberries and the richness of the Brie. It’s the secret ingredient that elevates these bites from good to truly memorable.
- Absolutely No Substitutions: It’s crucial to use *fresh* rosemary for this recipe. Dried rosemary has a much more concentrated, sometimes woody, flavor that won’t provide the same bright, fragrant lift and fresh aroma. Mince it finely to ensure an even distribution of its potent flavor without overwhelming the delicate balance of the other ingredients.
How to Make Raspberry Brie Bites: Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing these elegant Raspberry Brie Bites is incredibly straightforward, making them perfect for any home cook. Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time:
- Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking as soon as your bites are ready to go in. Next, prepare your mini muffin tin. If you are using wonton skins, lightly grease all 12 slots of a standard mini muffin tin with vegetable oil. This step is crucial to prevent the wonton skins from sticking and to help them crisp up beautifully. If you are using pre-made frozen phyllo shells, there’s no need to grease the tin as they typically contain enough fat already and are less prone to sticking; simply place one phyllo shell into each slot. Remember, if your phyllo package contains 15 shells and your tin only has 12 slots, you’ll need to bake them in two small batches.
- Form the Shells (if using Wontons): For wonton skins, gently press one skin into each greased mini muffin tin slot, shaping it into a small cup. Be careful not to tear them, but ensure they fit snugly and create a good well for the filling. Phyllo shells, being pre-formed and delicate, just need to be placed carefully into the slots.
- Prepare the Brie: Take your Brie cheese and cut it into small, manageable pieces. The ideal size is just enough to fit comfortably at the bottom of each prepared shell, forming a base layer. For easier cutting, ensure your Brie is cold; this firmness allows for cleaner, more precise cuts. As mentioned before, whether you remove the rind or leave it on is a matter of personal preference; both options yield delicious results. Don’t let any small scraps go to waste – they make for a delightful chef’s nibble while you work!
- Create the Raspberry Filling: In a small bowl, combine the raspberry preserves (or jam), two tablespoons of fresh raspberries, and the finely minced fresh rosemary. Gently mix them together with a spoon. The goal is to incorporate the flavors without mashing the fresh raspberries too much, preserving their texture and vibrant color. The fresh raspberries add an extra layer of brightness and juicy texture that wonderfully complements the sweetness of the preserves.
- Assemble the Bites: Place a piece of the cut Brie into the bottom of each phyllo or wonton cup. Then, using a small spoon, carefully dollop approximately ½ teaspoon of your raspberry mixture on top of each piece of Brie. Ensure the filling is centered within the cup. This careful layering ensures every bite contains all the wonderful flavors and textures – creamy Brie, sweet-tart raspberry, and aromatic rosemary.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Carefully transfer the mini muffin tin to your preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes, as oven temperatures can vary. You’re looking for the shells to be lightly browned and wonderfully crispy, and for the Brie to be beautifully melted, warm, and gooey. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so trust your eyes and the aroma!
- Cool, Remove, and Garnish: Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and let the Raspberry Brie Bites cool in the tin for a few minutes. This crucial step allows them to firm up slightly, making them much easier to remove without breaking or losing their shape. Using a small spoon or a butter knife, gently lift each bite out of the mini muffin tin. Arrange them elegantly on a serving platter. For a truly stunning and fresh finish, garnish with a few extra fresh raspberries and delicate sprigs of fresh rosemary. Serve warm for the best experience, allowing the melted Brie to be at its most luxurious and inviting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brie & Brie Bites
For those curious about Brie cheese or looking for extra tips to make these delicious appetizers, here are some frequently asked questions about this wonderful cheese and our Raspberry Brie Bites:
Brie is a renowned soft-ripened cheese, often described as buttery, creamy, and mildly pungent. Originating from France as far back as the 8th century, it’s typically made from cow’s milk, either raw or pasteurized. It’s characterized by its distinctive edible white rind, formed by a special mold culture, and its pale, soft, yielding interior. The flavor profile can range from milky and sweet to slightly nutty and earthy, depending on its age and specific variety. It’s a truly versatile and beloved cheese.
Brie is incredibly versatile and delicious in many forms! It’s famously enjoyed served at room temperature on crackers, crusty baguette slices, or with fresh fruit like grapes, apples, or pears – the rind is always meant to be eaten with the cheese. It makes an excellent centerpiece on any cheeseboard, where its creamy texture shines. To truly appreciate its full flavor and luscious texture, allow Brie to sit out at room temperature for about an hour before serving to take off the chill. This enhances both its delicate aroma and melt-in-your-mouth quality. Beyond a cheeseboard, Brie can be baked whole in pastry (like a classic Baked Brie en Croute), melted into gourmet sandwiches, added to quiches, pizzas, or even stirred into casseroles for a rich, savory depth. For those interested in traditional Brie etiquette, it’s considered polite to cut a strip off one of the cut sides of the wedge, rather than ‘slicing off the tip’ or corner, to ensure everyone gets a piece with both rind and creamy interior.
Absolutely! When incorporating Brie into recipes, especially when you need to cut it into specific shapes or pieces, it’s generally much easier to handle when it’s cold. This firmness allows for cleaner, more precise cuts, which is ideal for creating uniform pieces for our mini tarts. Once it warms up, it becomes significantly softer and stickier, making precise cutting more challenging. Always refer to your specific recipe to determine whether the Brie needs to be sliced, diced, or crumbled, and if the rind should be removed according to taste. For these Raspberry Brie Bites, small cubes work perfectly to fit snugly into the phyllo or wonton shells.
Once unwrapped, Brie has a relatively short shelf life, typically best consumed within one to two weeks. Proper storage is crucial to maintaining its quality and flavor. The ideal method is to first wrap the Brie in parchment paper or wax paper. This porous material allows the cheese to ‘breathe,’ preventing excessive moisture buildup that can lead to spoilage or an ammoniated taste. After wrapping in paper, loosely wrap it again in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to protect it from drying out and absorbing other strong refrigerator odors. Always check for any signs of fresh mold growth (other than its natural white rind) or an overpowering ammoniated smell, which indicates it’s past its prime and should be discarded.
Yes, with a small caveat! You can definitely prepare the components ahead of time to streamline your party prep. Cut the Brie and mix the raspberry preserve and rosemary mixture up to a day in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the best texture and crispness, assemble and bake the bites just before serving. Baking them too far in advance might cause the shells to lose some of their delightful crispness and become slightly soft. If you absolutely must bake them ahead, you can gently reheat them in a warm oven (around 250°F/120°C) for 5-7 minutes until the Brie is melty again, but be aware the shells might be slightly less crisp than fresh baked.
Absolutely! While raspberry and rosemary is a divine and classic combination, you can easily customize these bites to suit your taste or the season. Consider using other fruit preserves like apricot, fig, cranberry, or even a spiced apple butter for different flavor profiles. For a delightful nutty crunch, add a tiny sprinkle of finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or pistachios to the filling alongside the fruit. A delicate drizzle of honey or a tangy balsamic glaze after baking can also add another layer of sophisticated flavor. Instead of rosemary, a tiny pinch of fresh thyme or even a very small amount of orange zest could offer an interesting and aromatic twist. Don’t be afraid to get creative with what you have on hand – Brie is very forgiving!
These elegant and flavorful bites pair beautifully with a variety of beverages, enhancing the overall culinary experience. For wine lovers, a crisp, dry sparkling wine like Prosecco, Cava, or Champagne is a fantastic choice, as its effervescence cuts through the richness of the Brie and cleanses the palate. A light-bodied, fruity red wine such as a Pinot Noir or a refreshing rosé also complements the sweet-tart raspberry notes wonderfully. If you prefer white wine, an unoaked Chardonnay, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, or a slightly sweet Riesling would be delightful. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling cider, a cranberry spritzer, or even a glass of perfectly brewed iced tea with a slice of lemon would be refreshing and delicious alongside these appetizers.
You May Also Like These Delicious Brie Recipes
- Baked Brie with Figs and Honey from The View from Great Island
- Brie Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Strawberry Brie Salad
- Caramel Baked Brie
- Cranberry Brie en Croute
- More Easy Appetizer Recipes to inspire your next gathering!
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Raspberry Brie Bites
15 minutes
12 minutes
27 minutes
12 tarts
These incredibly easy and elegant Raspberry Brie Bites, made with crispy wonton or phyllo shells filled with creamy Brie and sweet-tart raspberry jam, are the perfect appetizer for any gathering. They’re quick to assemble, bake to golden perfection, and are guaranteed to be a hit at your next cocktail party, game day, or special event, leaving everyone asking for the recipe!
Ingredients
- 12 wonton skins or a box of frozen Phyllo shells (15 baked shells/box)
- Vegetable oil, if using wonton skins
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed if desired
- ¼ cup raspberry preserves or jam
- 2 tablespoons fresh raspberries, plus more for garnishing
- ¼ teaspoon finely minced fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375ºF (190°C). If using wonton skins, grease 12 slots of a mini muffin tin with vegetable oil. Insert one wonton skin in each slot, gently pressing to form a cup. If using phyllo shells, simply place one shell into each slot (no greasing needed for phyllo). If your phyllo box has 15 shells and your tin only has 12 slots, you will need to bake in two batches.
- Cut the cold Brie cheese into small pieces that will fit comfortably into the bottom of each prepared shell. Whether you remove the rind is your personal preference. Save any small scraps for a chef’s treat!
- In a small bowl, mix together the raspberry preserves (or jam), 2 tablespoons of fresh raspberries, and the finely minced fresh rosemary until well combined.
- Place one piece of Brie into the bottom of each phyllo or wonton cup. Top each piece of Brie with approximately ½ teaspoon of the raspberry mixture, ensuring it’s centered.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shells are lightly browned and crisp, and the Brie is beautifully melted and gooey. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Allow the bites to cool slightly in the muffin tin for a few minutes before carefully removing them. This helps them firm up and prevents breaking. Arrange them on a serving platter and garnish with extra fresh raspberries and small sprigs of fresh rosemary, if desired. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
You won’t necessarily use all 8 ounces of Brie, especially if you have a smaller wedge. This recipe is perfect for utilizing a partial wedge of leftover Brie, making it an excellent way to prevent food waste while creating a gourmet appetizer!
Recommended Products
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- Santoku Knife
- OXO Cutting Board
- Non Stick Mini Muffin Pan
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
12
Serving Size:
2
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 133
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 28mg
Sodium: 243mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 6g
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