Cranberry Brie Bites (diabetic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Cranberry Brie Bites
Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful appetizer that combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tartness of cranberries, all nestled in a flaky pastry. Traditionally served during the holiday season, these bites have become a staple at gatherings, bringing a touch of elegance to any table. The original recipe often features sweetened cranberry sauce, but in this diabetic-friendly version, we swap in fresh cranberries and a touch of natural sweetener to keep the flavors vibrant without the excess sugar.
These bites are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also offer a beautiful presentation that can impress your guests. The contrast of the creamy brie and the bright red cranberries makes for a visually appealing dish. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family. Just remember, if you eat too many, you might need to roll yourself out the door—though I hear that’s a great way to make an exit!
To make these bites even more special, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of balsamic reduction before serving. These small additions can elevate the flavor profile and add a delightful crunch. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking for a tasty snack, these diabetic-friendly Cranberry Brie Bites are sure to be a hit. Just be prepared for the compliments—after all, who wouldn’t want to be the star of the appetizer table?
Ingredients
- 6 sheets phyllo pastry sheets
- 8 ounces brie cheese
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 tablespoons natural sweetener (like stevia or erythritol)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving a golden, flaky pastry while ensuring the brie melts perfectly.
- In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, natural sweetener, and water. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove the cranberry mixture from heat and stir in the fresh thyme and salt. This adds a lovely herbal note that complements the brie beautifully.
- Lay out the phyllo pastry sheets on a clean surface and brush each sheet lightly with olive oil. Layering the sheets will give you a sturdier base for your bites.
- Cut the layered phyllo sheets into squares, approximately 4 inches by 4 inches. You should have enough squares to line a mini muffin tin.
- Gently press each phyllo square into the cups of a mini muffin tin, creating little cups. This is where the magic happens, as they will hold all the delicious fillings.
- Cut the brie cheese into small pieces, about 1 ounce each, and place one piece in each phyllo cup. The brie will melt beautifully, creating a creamy center.
- Spoon the cranberry mixture over the brie in each cup, filling them generously but not overflowing. The tartness of the cranberries will balance the richness of the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. This will help the bites set and make them easier to remove from the tin.
- Carefully lift the bites out of the muffin tin using a small fork or spatula. Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
- Enjoy these delightful bites as a sophisticated appetizer that won’t derail your dietary goals. Just remember to pace yourself—these are addictive!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Carbs g: 10
- Protein g: 3
- Fat g: 8
- Sugar g: 1
