Cranberry and Brie Filo Pastries
Cranberry and Brie Filo Pastries are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the creamy, smooth texture of Brie cheese, all wrapped in crisp, flaky filo…
Tip: save now, cook later.Cranberry and Brie Filo Pastries are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the creamy, smooth texture of Brie cheese, all wrapped in crisp, flaky filo dough. These little pastries are perfect for adding a bit of festive charm to any gathering or just enjoying as a cozy snack. The golden, crunchy filo pairs beautifully with the rich cheese and bright cranberry filling.
I love making these pastries when I want something that feels special but is still easy to prepare. The contrast between the gooey Brie and the tangy cranberry sauce inside the light, crunchy layers of filo always makes a great impression. Plus, they’re so simple to customize — sometimes I add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a touch of honey for extra flavor.
My favorite way to enjoy these pastries is fresh from the oven while they’re still warm and gooey. They go wonderfully with a glass of wine or alongside a fresh green salad for a light lunch. They also make fantastic finger foods for parties or holiday celebrations because they’re bite-sized and packed with flavor, making everyone ask for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Filo Pastry: Filo gives these pastries their signature crisp and flaky texture. Handle it gently—it’s very thin and dries out quickly. If you don’t have filo, puff pastry is a decent substitute but will be a bit heavier.
Brie Cheese: Brie’s creamy, mild flavor pairs beautifully with cranberries. If Brie isn’t your favorite, Camembert or even cream cheese work well here, though the texture will change a bit.
Cranberries & Sauce: Using homemade cranberry sauce means you can adjust the sweetness to your taste. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, store-bought cranberry sauce works fine and saves time.
Butter: Brushing melted butter between filo layers helps achieve a golden, crunchy finish. For a lighter option, you can use olive oil instead, but the flavor changes slightly.
Optional Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and earthy taste. If you have nut allergies, just leave them out; the pastries will still be delicious!
How Can I Keep Filo Pastry From Tearing While Working?
Filo pastry is very thin and delicate, so it needs careful handling to avoid tears. Here’s how I manage it every time:
- Keep filo covered with a damp towel while you work. This prevents it from drying out and cracking.
- Brush each sheet gently with melted butter or oil to help layers stick and stay moist.
- Work on a clean, flat surface and avoid stretching the sheets when cutting or folding.
- If a tear happens, don’t worry! You can patch it by pressing extra buttered filo on top before folding.
Taking these small steps makes folding the triangles easier and keeps your pastries looking perfect and crisp after baking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking tray – perfect for baking the filo pastries evenly and catching any drips.
- Parchment paper – stops the pastries from sticking to the tray and makes cleanup easy.
- Pastry brush – lets you brush melted butter gently over the filo without tearing it.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – helps you cut filo sheets into neat strips for folding.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Brie for goat cheese if you want a tangier, slightly crumbly texture that pairs well with cranberries.
- Add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the cranberry sauce for a hint of herbal aroma.
- Mix in cooked sausage or prosciutto for a salty, meaty touch that balances the sweetness.
- Sprinkle crushed pistachios or almonds inside for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
Cranberry and Brie Filo Pastries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 sheets filo pastry
- 150g Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup cranberry sauce or fresh cranberries cooked down with sugar (about ½ cup sugar)
- 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing filo)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake. If making cranberry sauce from fresh cranberries, add an extra 10 minutes to cook and cool the sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Tray:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the pastries from sticking.
2. Make Cranberry Sauce (if needed):
If you’re using fresh cranberries, cook them with sugar over medium heat until they burst and form a thick sauce. Let it cool before using.
3. Layer the Filo:
Place one sheet of filo on your work surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Add another sheet on top, and brush again. Repeat until you have four buttery layers stacked.
4. Cut and Fill:
Cut the layered filo into strips about 3 inches wide. On each strip near the edge, place a small spoonful of cranberry sauce, a cube of Brie, and some chopped nuts if you like.
5. Fold the Pastries:
Fold the filo over the filling to form a triangle shape. Carefully continue folding the triangle along the strip until the entire pastry is wrapped. Seal the edges well so nothing leaks out.
6. Finish and Bake:
Brush the outsides with melted butter and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Place the pastries on the baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary if you’d like, and serve warm with extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Filo Pastry for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen filo pastry! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before using, and keep it covered with a damp towel while working to prevent it from drying out or tearing.
Can I Make These Pastries Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pastries and keep them covered in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just brush them with butter and bake when you’re ready for fresh, crispy pastries.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
What Can I Serve with Cranberry and Brie Filo Pastries?
These pastries pair beautifully with a fresh green salad, a glass of white wine, or extra cranberry sauce for dipping. They also make great party appetizers or a light snack.
