Cranberry Goat Cheese Bites

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When it comes to entertaining, the right appetizer can set the tone for the entire event. These Cranberry Goat Cheese Bites are not only visually stunning but are also a harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors. With a buttery pie crust wrapped around a creamy and tangy filling topped with tart cranberry sauce, these bites are perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or cozy family get-togethers. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that combines simple ingredients to create a sophisticated yet approachable dish!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

A delightful combination of flavors and textures makes these Cranberry Goat Cheese Bites irresistible. The flaky crust contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, while the cranberry sauce adds a touch of tanginess that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese. Plus, they are incredibly easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making them a secret weapon in your appetizer arsenal. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or a casual holiday gathering, these bites will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 box refrigerated pie crusts
• 1 – 8 oz. tub chive and onion cream cheese spread
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper to your liking
• 3 – 4 oz. goat cheese chevre
• ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
• ⅓ cup coarsely chopped walnuts

How To Make Cranberry Goat Cheese Bites

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your bites will bake evenly and achieve that golden-brown color we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

While the oven is preheating, roll out your refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles that are about 3 inches in diameter. You should be able to get around 12-15 circles from one box, depending on thickness.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the chive and onion cream cheese spread with the goat cheese chevre. Use a fork to mash the goat cheese into the cream cheese until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Bites

Take each pie crust circle and place a generous spoonful of the cheese filling in the center. Top each filling with a small dollop of whole berry cranberry sauce and a sprinkle of coarsely chopped walnuts.

Step 5: Seal the Bites

Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly and crimp with a fork to ensure they are sealed. This will help prevent the filling from leaking out while they bake.

Step 6: Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat the large egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of each bite with the egg wash to give them a beautiful golden color when baked.

Step 7: Bake

Place the assembled bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them incredibly versatile for any occasion!

Expert Tips

• To save time, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the bites.
• If you’re short on time, you can also use store-bought cranberry sauce.
• For added flavor, try mixing in fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary with the cheese filling.
• Keep an eye on the bites while baking; ovens may vary in temperature, so adjust your baking time as needed.

Variations and Customizations

• For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese filling.
• Try swapping out the walnuts for pecans or pistachios for a different nutty flavor.
• Use different cheese varieties such as feta or a creamier ricotta for a change in taste and texture.
• Experiment with different types of jam or preserves instead of cranberry for a unique twist.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Cranberry Goat Cheese Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This will help restore their crispy texture.

FAQ

Can I freeze the Cranberry Goat Cheese Bites?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled bites before baking. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for goat cheese?

If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can use crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, or even sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the bites ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. They can also be frozen, as mentioned earlier.

How can I add more flavor to the filling?

Consider adding minced garlic or finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the cheese filling for an extra flavor boost.

Conclusion

These Cranberry Goat Cheese Bites are the perfect blend of elegance and simplicity, guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. With their flaky crust and creamy, savory-sweet filling, they are bound to be devoured by your guests. Easy to make and customizable to suit any palate, this appetizer is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to impress—you’ll be so glad you made these delightful bites!