These Pistachio-Crusted Brie Bites are my go-to for any gathering where I want to impress with minimal effort. The buttery puff pastry, creamy Brie, and crunchy-sweet pistachio topping come together in one elegant, bite-sized treat. Whether it’s a holiday party, a wine night, or just a cozy evening at home, I always get compliments when I serve these.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet. The pistachio-honey topping gives a flavorful crunch, while the Brie melts into rich, gooey perfection inside the golden pastry. It’s easy to make in batches, and I can even prep them ahead of time. Plus, the presentation with garnishes like cranberries or pomegranate seeds adds a festive touch without any extra effort.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
1 cup unsalted roasted pistachios, shelled and chopped
Fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds (for garnish, optional)
Directions
I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, I combine chopped pistachios, honey, rosemary, sea salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful topping.
I roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into 3×3-inch squares.
In the center of each square, I place about 1 ounce of Brie and top it with 1–2 teaspoons of the pistachio mixture.
Then I fold the pastry corners over the filling and pinch the seams to seal each bite.
I brush the tops with beaten egg to get that golden finish after baking.
I arrange the bites on the prepared sheet and bake them for 15–20 minutes until they’re puffed and golden brown.
After a few minutes of cooling, I garnish with cranberries or pomegranate seeds for extra flair.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 16–18 Brie bites, depending on how I cut the pastry. It takes around 15 minutes for prep and another 15–20 minutes to bake, so I have them ready in about 30–35 minutes total. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or a quick but luxurious appetizer.
Variations
Sometimes I like to switch it up by using different nuts like pecans or walnuts if I’m out of pistachios. I’ve also tried a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for a tangy contrast. For a slightly spicier twist, I add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the pistachio mixture.
Storage/Reheating
If I have leftovers (which is rare), I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes. I avoid microwaving them because the puff pastry tends to get soggy.
FAQs
How far in advance can I make these Brie bites?
I like to assemble them a few hours ahead and keep them in the fridge until I’m ready to bake. That way, they’re fresh and warm when served.
Can I freeze these before or after baking?
Yes, I freeze them unbaked and then bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. It’s a great make-ahead option.
What type of Brie works best?
I go with a firm Brie wheel that’s easy to cut into pieces. Double cream Brie works great because it melts beautifully.
Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
I’ve tried it with phyllo, but I prefer puff pastry for the buttery, flaky texture. If I use phyllo, I make sure to layer and butter the sheets for best results.
Do I need to peel the pistachios?
Yes, I always use shelled pistachios to save time. Roasted and unsalted ones give the best flavor balance with the honey.
Conclusion
These Pistachio-Crusted Brie Bites are the kind of appetizer that feels fancy but is actually simple to pull together. I love serving them because they combine texture, flavor, and presentation in every bite. They’ve become a favorite in my entertaining lineup—and once I try them, I think they’ll be a favorite in yours too.
These Pistachio-Crusted Brie Bites are a simple yet elegant appetizer, featuring creamy Brie wrapped in buttery puff pastry and topped with a sweet, crunchy pistachio-honey mixture. Perfect for entertaining or cozy nights in.
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:16–18 bites
Ingredients
1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
1 cup unsalted roasted pistachios, shelled and chopped
