These cute puff pastry stars are filled with creamy brie and tangy cranberry sauce, making them a perfect snack or appetizer. They’re flaky, tasty, and oh-so-fun to eat!
Making them feels like a treat, especially when they puff up and turn golden. They’re always a hit at parties, and I love seeing friends gather around the plate, ready to grab one (or three!)!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show! You can find it in the freezer section. If you’re short on time, you might try using phyllo dough, though it won’t puff as much.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creaminess, but if you can’t find it, Camembert or a mild cream cheese also works well. Experimenting with different cheeses can change the flavor profile, so have fun!
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade is great, but store-bought is perfectly fine. You could even swap it for raspberry or cherry preserves if you’re looking for a different twist.
Nuts: Chopped pecans add a nice crunch, but you can skip them if you want or use slivered almonds instead. Just make sure whatever you choose complements the dish!
How Do You Make Puff Pastry Stars That Puff Up Perfectly?
Puff pastry can be tricky, but here are some tips to get that beautiful rise:
- Keep the puff pastry cold. If it warms up too much, it won’t puff well. You can always stick it back in the fridge if needed.
- Make sure not to overfill the pastry. A little bit of filling goes a long way, plus it helps the stars hold their shape.
- Brush the edges with egg wash to help seal them and give them a golden color when baked.
- Don’t overcrowd your baking sheet. Give each pastry space to puff up without sticking to each other.
These tips should help you achieve a flaky, golden result that everyone will enjoy!
How to Make Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Stars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 4 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, followed by 12-15 minutes of baking time. In total, you’re looking at about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet impressive appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will make cleanup easier too!
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
Take your puff pastry sheet out and unfold it on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to gently roll it out, smoothing out any creases. You want it to be nice and flat for cutting.
3. Cut Out Star Shapes:
Using a star-shaped cookie cutter (around 3 inches wide), cut out star shapes from the puff pastry. You should have enough to make pairs for each filled star. Place half of them on your baking sheet.
4. Fill the Stars:
In the center of each star on the baking sheet, put a small piece of Brie cheese. Then, add about half a teaspoon of cranberry sauce right on top of the cheese. If you’re adding nuts, sprinkle a few chopped pecans or walnuts over the sauce.
5. Assemble the Stars:
Now it’s time to build the stars! Take another star cutout and place it on top of each filled star. Gently press the edges together to seal them, but be sure to leave the center open so the filling can be seen.
6. Egg Wash and Bake:
Beat an egg in a small bowl and brush the edges of each star with the egg wash to give them that beautiful golden color. Then, brush the tops too! Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they’re puffy and golden brown.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, carefully take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. If you’d like, sprinkle a few fresh thyme leaves over the tops as a lovely garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!
These cranberry brie puff pastry stars are a perfect blend of flaky, cheesy, and tangy flavors. They make for a delightful appetizer or party snack—enjoy every last bite!
Can I Use Different Cheeses Instead of Brie?
Absolutely! While Brie is delicious due to its creaminess, you can try other soft cheeses like Camembert or even goat cheese for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste will change slightly!
What If I Can’t Find Puff Pastry?
If puff pastry is unavailable, you might substitute with phyllo dough, though it won’t puff as much. Just layer several sheets of phyllo with melted butter between them to give a bit of flakiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the stars in advance and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just remember to brush on the egg wash right before baking for a crispy, golden finish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes until warmed and crispy again.
