Save A vibrant, festive salad featuring golden puff pastry flowers filled with creamy brie and tangy cranberries, served atop fresh greens for an elegant appetizer or light meal.
I enjoy making these flower bites for holiday gatherings because they impress guests with their beautiful presentation and delightful flavors.
Ingredients
- For the Cranberry and Brie Flower Bites: 1 sheet puff pastry thawed, 120 g (4 oz) brie cheese rind removed cut into 18 small cubes, 6 tbsp cranberry sauce (whole berry preferred), 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
- For the Salad: 120 g (4 cups) mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula baby spinach frisée), 1 small pear thinly sliced, 30 g (1/4 cup) toasted pecans or walnuts roughly chopped, 40 g (1/3 cup) pomegranate seeds
- For the Dressing: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey, Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- On a lightly floured surface roll out the puff pastry to smooth it. Using a flower-shaped cookie cutter (about 6 cm/2.5 in) cut out 18 flower shapes.
- Step 3:
- Place the pastry flowers on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press the center of each flower to make a slight indentation.
- Step 4:
- Place one cube of brie and 1 tsp cranberry sauce in the center of each pastry flower.
- Step 5:
- Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg.
- Step 6:
- Bake for 12&15 minutes or until golden and puffed. Allow to cool slightly.
- Step 7:
- In a small bowl whisk together olive oil balsamic vinegar Dijon mustard honey salt and pepper to make the dressing.
- Step 8:
- In a large bowl toss the salad greens with the dressing. Arrange on a platter or individual plates.
- Step 9:
- Top with pear slices toasted nuts and pomegranate seeds.
- Step 10:
- Arrange 3 cranberry and brie flower bites per serving atop the salad. Serve immediately.
Save This recipe has become a family favorite especially during holidays when we gather and enjoy it together around the table.
Notes
Add cooked shredded chicken for extra protein. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling wine.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Flower-shaped cookie cutter, Pastry brush, Mixing bowls, Whisk
Allergen Information
Contains Gluten (puff pastry), Dairy (brie), Egg, Tree nuts (pecans/walnuts), Mustard. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Save Enjoy these flower bites fresh to best savor their crisp golden pastry and creamy filling.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of cheese pairs well in the flower bites?
Brie is used for its creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor that complements the tartness of cranberries.
- → Can the puff pastry be prepared in advance?
Yes, puff pastry flowers can be assembled ahead and refrigerated briefly before baking to maintain freshness.
- → What alternatives exist for the cranberry sauce filling?
Fig jam or apricot preserves can provide a different but complementary sweetness and tartness.
- → How is the salad dressing made?
The dressing combines extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper whisked together for a balanced finish.
- → Are there any suggested garnishes for extra flavor?
Toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts, pear slices, and pomegranate seeds add crunch and freshness to the greens.