Cranberry Pistachio Brie Puff Stars Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a festive appetizer that brings together flaky, cheesy, nutty, and fruity notes in a bite-sized delight, then these Cranberry Pistachio Brie Puff Stars will quickly become your go-to crowd-pleaser. Combining the buttery layers of puff pastry with creamy Brie cheese, the bold tartness of cranberry sauce, a touch of sweetness from honey, and the satisfying crunch of pistachios, these little stars are both elegant and approachable. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, they capture an irresistible balance of flavors and textures that invite second—and third—helpings.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cranberry Pistachio Brie Puff Stars lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether bringing richness, sweetness, tang, or crunch, making this recipe as straightforward as it is delicious.

• Puff pastry sheet: The buttery, flaky base that puffs up beautifully in the oven, creating the perfect vessel for the fillings.
• Brie cheese, rind removed and cubed: Adds creamy, mellow richness with just a hint of earthiness.
• Cranberry sauce: Provides tart juiciness and festive color; you can use homemade or canned.
• Honey: Adds a gentle sweetness that plays off the tart cranberries and savory cheese.
• Shelled, chopped pistachios: For a lovely nutty crunch and vibrant green color.
• Egg, beaten: Used as an egg wash to give the pastry a gorgeous, golden finish.
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional): A subtle herbal note that enhances the flavor and makes for a lovely garnish.

How to Make Cranberry Pistachio Brie Puff Stars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Workspace

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures a non-stick surface and easy cleanup, while preheating guarantees the pastry will puff up perfectly as soon as it hits the hot oven.

Step 2: Roll and Cut the Puff Pastry

Lightly flour a clean surface and gently roll out your thawed puff pastry to smooth it slightly without making it too thin. Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out stars from the pastry. The star shapes make these bites festive and fun to serve, perfect for the holiday season or a special gathering.

Step 3: Assemble the Filling Layers

Place half of the star cutouts on your prepared baking sheet. On each star, add a small cube of Brie, followed by a spoonful of cranberry sauce, and sprinkle with chopped pistachios. A drizzle of honey over each star intensifies the natural sweetness and ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 4: Seal and Brush

Top each filled star with another puff pastry star, pressing gently around the edges to seal the layers well. This step traps all the delicious fillings inside while baking, creating that wonderful puff. Then, brush the tops lightly with beaten egg to achieve that irresistible, glossy, golden crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your assembled stars in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until they’re puffed and beautifully golden brown. The kitchen will soon be filled with an inviting aroma that’s hard to resist!

Step 6: Finish and Serve

When the stars come out of the oven, give them a light drizzle of honey and sprinkle with any remaining pistachios. For an elegant touch, add a few fresh thyme leaves on top. Serve the Cranberry Pistachio Brie Puff Stars warm to enjoy the perfect melty contrast of cheese and the delicate crunch of pastry.

How to Serve Cranberry Pistachio Brie Puff Stars

Garnishes

Fresh thyme leaves add not only a pop of color but also a subtle earthiness that complements the sweetness and tang. You can also try a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest for a citrusy brightness if you want to kick things up a notch.

Side Dishes

These stars shine best as party appetizers or alongside a crisp salad with ingredients like arugula and toasted nuts to keep the meal balanced and fresh. Alternatively, a simple glass of sparkling wine or a fruity white pairs beautifully to highlight the rich, creamy Brie and tart cranberries.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive holiday table, arrange your Cranberry Pistachio Brie Puff Stars on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh cranberries and sprigs of rosemary. You might also serve them with a small bowl of warm honey or a cranberry chutney on the side for dipping, making the experience interactive and extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the Cranberry Pistachio Brie Puff Stars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days, though they’re best enjoyed fresh for maximum puffiness and crispness.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the stars but don’t bake them yet. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be baked straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Warm leftover stars in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes to crisp up the pastry again and gently melt the Brie inside. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts work wonderfully if you prefer a different nut flavor or have pistachio allergies. The key is to choose nuts with a nice crunch and complementary taste.

Is it necessary to remove the Brie rind?

The rind is edible but can be a bit tough and bitter for some palates. Removing it makes the texture smoother and the flavor milder, which pairs better with the cranberry and honey in this recipe.

Can these be made vegan?

You can substitute puff pastry with a vegan version and swap Brie for a plant-based cheese alternative. Use maple syrup instead of honey to keep everything vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a delightful plant-based version.

How long do I have to thaw the puff pastry?

Typically, puff pastry needs about 30 to 40 minutes at room temperature to thaw and become pliable enough to roll and cut without cracking.

Can I prepare these stars ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! You can assemble them ahead and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add a few more minutes to the baking time if cold from the fridge to ensure they bake through properly.

Final Thoughts

If you want to wow your friends and family with an appetizer that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, don’t hesitate to try the Cranberry Pistachio Brie Puff Stars. Their irresistible combination of flavors and delightful presentation makes them a standout treat for any celebration. I promise these stars will become a cherished favorite, earning you plenty of compliments and maybe even some recipe requests!