Save Buttery puff pastry cups filled with creamy brie, crisp apples, and rich caramel, finished with a hint of sea salt—a delightful sweet-and-savory appetizer perfect for entertaining.
The first time I made these caramel apple brie bites was for a fall gathering, and they disappeared within minutes—guests loved the melty cheese and burst of tart apple.
Ingredients
- Brie cheese: 200 g (7 oz) brie cheese, rind trimmed and cut into 24 small cubes
- Tart apple: 1 medium tart apple (e.g. Granny Smith), cored and finely diced
- Puff pastry: 1 sheet (230 g / 8 oz) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- Caramel sauce: 120 ml (½ cup) thick caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Nuts (optional): 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts
- Flaky sea salt: for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare oven and tin:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin or line with mini paper liners.
- Roll and cut pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a 25 x 25 cm (10 x 10-inch) square. Cut into 24 equal squares.
- Shape pastry cups:
- Gently press each puff pastry square into a cup of the muffin tin, ensuring the corners stick up slightly.
- Add brie:
- Place a cube of brie into each pastry cup.
- Top with apple and caramel:
- Top each with a few diced apple pieces and about ½ teaspoon caramel sauce.
- Add nuts:
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts if using.
- Bake:
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
Save My family loves helping to assemble these brie bites—everyone gets involved pressing pastry and topping with apples. Sharing them warm from the oven has become a special treat at our gatherings.
Variations
Swap pears for apples or try dried cranberries for a festive twist. You can also use honey instead of caramel for a lighter option.
Suggested Pairings
Serve these bites with sparkling wine or crisp cider to enhance their sweet-and-savory flavors.
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble the brie bites a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before guests arrive for the freshest results.
Save These caramel apple brie bites deliver sweet, savory, and creamy goodness in every bite. Serve them at your next party—guests will ask for the recipe.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, pears are an excellent alternative to apples. Choose firm, tart varieties for best results.
- → Is homemade caramel necessary?
Store-bought caramel sauce works well. Homemade caramel adds a personal touch and richer flavor if you prefer.
- → How do I serve these appetizers?
Serve warm for best texture and flavor. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes if needed before serving.
- → Can these be made ahead?
Prepare in advance and reheat just before serving. Add extra caramel and sea salt after warming for freshness.
- → Are there nut-free options?
Omit nuts for a nut-free version. The bites are delicious with just apple, brie, caramel, and pastry.
- → What type of wine pairs best?
Sparkling wine or crisp cider both complement the sweet and savory elements beautifully.