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Cheese and Cranberry Bites

These cheesy pastry bites combine sharp cheddar, creamy cheese, and tangy cranberry sauce encased in flaky puff pastry. Baked until golden and topped with sesame seeds, they offer a crispy, gooey, and flavorful treat perfect for holiday parties or entertaining. Their unexpected flavor pairing sparks conversation and delights the senses.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Holiday
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 200g g sharp cheddar cheese finely grated
  • 100g g cream cheese softened
  • 50g g fresh rosemary finely chopped
  • 250g g puff pastry chilled
  • 1 egg egg beaten, for wash
  • 2 tsp sesame seeds for topping
  • 1 tsp cranberry sauce bright and tart

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Rolling Pin
  • Knife or pastry cutter
  • Brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix the finely grated cheddar, softened cream cheese, and chopped rosemary until well combined and creamy.
  3. Roll out the chilled puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 0.5 cm thickness.
  4. Use a knife or pastry cutter to cut the dough into 5 cm squares or circles, depending on your preference.
  5. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each pastry shape.
  6. Add a small teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top of the cheese filling in each pastry.
  7. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a pocket or fold the edges to enclose it, pinching to seal well.
  8. Brush the tops of each pastry with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds for a shiny, crunchy finish.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and bubbling.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the bites cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to ensure they hold their shape.

Notes

Ensure the pastry is kept cold before baking for the best flaky texture. Seal edges thoroughly to prevent leakage. Keep an eye on baking time to avoid over-browning.