🧀✨ Pistachio-Crusted Brie Bites with Cranberry Honey Glaze

🛒 Ingredients (Makes 18–24 bites)

• 1 large wheel of brie (8–12 oz), chilled

• ½ cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp honey

• ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries

• 1 tbsp orange juice or water

• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)

• Pinch of salt

• Crackers or toasted baguette slices (for serving)

Optional add-ins:

• Orange zest (for brightness)

• Pinch of cinnamon

• Dash of balsamic vinegar (for depth)

🔪 Prep the Brie

1️⃣ Chill brie well (30–60 minutes in fridge makes cutting easier).
2️⃣ Trim rind if desired (optional — it’s edible).
3️⃣ Cut into 1-inch cubes.

🌰 Coat with Pistachios

• Roll each brie cube in chopped pistachios, pressing gently so they stick.

• Arrange on a parchment-lined tray.

• Chill 10–15 minutes to help them firm up.

🍯 Make the Cranberry Honey Glaze

1️⃣ In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, honey, orange juice (or water), and a pinch of salt.
2️⃣ Simmer 5–8 minutes until cranberries burst and sauce thickens slightly.
3️⃣ Mash lightly for a rustic glaze or blend smooth if preferred.
4️⃣ Stir in thyme if using.

Let cool slightly before serving (it thickens as it cools).

🍽 Assemble & Serve

• Place brie bites on crackers or crostini.

• Spoon a small drizzle of cranberry honey glaze on top.

• Garnish with extra thyme or orange zest.

Serve slightly chilled or at cool room temperature.

✨ Flavor Profile

• Creamy, buttery brie

• Crunchy, nutty pistachios

• Sweet floral honey

• Bright, tangy cranberry finish

🔥 Make It Warm (Optional)

For melty bites:

• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes just until soft inside.

• Add glaze after baking.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare brie bites and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add glaze just before serving.

Q: Can I use dried cranberries?
Fresh or frozen work best for sauce texture, but dried can be simmered longer with extra liquid.

Q: Do I have to remove the rind?
No — brie rind is edible. Removing it just gives a smoother texture.

Q: Can I freeze them?
Not recommended — texture may change once thawed.