Crispy Brie and Cranberry Rice Paper Bites: A Festive Appetizer Recipe

Looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these Crispy Brie and Cranberry Rice Paper Bites! This recipe combines the creamy, decadent flavor of brie cheese with the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce, all encased in a shatteringly crisp rice paper shell. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, cocktail parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The visual appeal alone makes them a standout dish, and the taste? Absolutely irresistible.

This recipe leverages the magic of rice paper, often used in spring rolls, to create a unique texture and presentation. When fried or baked, rice paper transforms into a delicate, crispy shell that’s surprisingly sturdy enough to hold its filling. The combination of the crispy shell, the melty brie, and the sweet-tart cranberry sauce is a textural and flavor explosion that will leave your guests wanting more. Plus, they can be assembled ahead of time, making them a host’s dream come true.

## Why You’ll Love These Crispy Brie and Cranberry Bites

* **Unique Texture:** The crispy rice paper offers a delightful contrast to the creamy brie and soft cranberry sauce.
* **Flavorful Combination:** The brie and cranberry pairing is a classic for a reason – it’s a match made in heaven.
* **Easy to Make:** Despite their impressive appearance, these bites are surprisingly simple to prepare.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** Assemble them in advance and fry or bake them just before serving.
* **Visually Appealing:** They look stunning on a platter and are guaranteed to impress your guests.
* **Versatile:** Perfect for holidays, parties, or even a fancy weeknight snack.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these simple ingredients:

* **Rice Paper Rounds:** Look for these in the Asian foods section of your grocery store. Spring roll wrappers are not the same! Use the regular size, about 8.5 inches in diameter. You will need about 10-12 sheets depending on how tightly you roll and how many bites you want to make. I recommend buying a bit extra, in case some tear during the process.
* **Brie Cheese:** A wheel of brie is ideal. Make sure to choose a good quality brie for the best flavor. Double or triple cream brie will add more richness. You can also use a wedge of brie, just make sure to cut it into appropriate sized pieces. The size of the wheel determines how large or small you make the bites. A standard 8 oz wheel is a good starting point.
* **Cranberry Sauce:** Homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce works perfectly. If using store-bought, opt for a whole-berry sauce for added texture. For a spicier kick, try using a cranberry sauce with jalapenos or ginger. Leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving or Christmas works perfectly!
* **Fresh Thyme (Optional):** A few sprigs of fresh thyme add a lovely herbaceous note. You can substitute with other fresh herbs such as rosemary or sage if you prefer. If you do not have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used, but use sparingly. About 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme can be used in place of 1 sprig of fresh thyme.
* **Oil for Frying (Optional):** Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, if you plan to fry them. Do not use olive oil or other flavored oils.
* **Butter for Baking (Optional):** Melted butter for brushing the rice paper if you plan to bake them. You can use olive oil, but the butter adds flavor. A vegan butter substitute can also be used.
* **Water:** For softening the rice paper.

## Equipment

* **Shallow Dish:** For soaking the rice paper rounds. A pie plate or large shallow bowl works well.
* **Cutting Board:** For prepping the brie.
* **Sharp Knife:** For cutting the brie into pieces.
* **Frying Pan or Dutch Oven (for frying):** A large pan with high sides is ideal for frying.
* **Baking Sheet (for baking):** If you’re baking the bites, you’ll need a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
* **Tongs or Slotted Spoon:** For removing the bites from the hot oil (if frying).
* **Paper Towels:** For draining the fried bites.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make these delightful appetizers:

**1. Prepare the Brie:**

* Using a sharp knife, cut the brie wheel into small, bite-sized pieces. Aim for pieces that are about 1 inch square or slightly smaller. The size depends on the size of your rice paper rounds and how tightly you plan to roll them. Too large and they will be hard to wrap, and the filling will burst out when frying or baking.
* If using a wedge of brie, cut it into similar-sized pieces.

**2. Soften the Rice Paper:**

* Fill a shallow dish with lukewarm water. The water should be warm enough to soften the rice paper, but not so hot that it burns your fingers.
* Dip one rice paper round into the water for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes pliable but not too soft. You want it to be easy to work with without tearing. The exact time will depend on the brand of rice paper you are using, so it is best to start with one and test how long it takes to soften. Be careful not to oversoak the rice paper, as it will become sticky and difficult to handle. If this happens, try using another sheet of rice paper and soaking it for a shorter time.
* Carefully remove the softened rice paper round from the water and lay it flat on a clean, dry surface, such as a cutting board. If you are working in a humid environment, work quickly because the rice paper will continue to soften as it sits. Also, make sure you are working on a non-stick surface, otherwise it will stick and tear when you try to move it.

**3. Assemble the Bites:**

* Place a piece of brie in the center of the softened rice paper round.
* Top the brie with a small spoonful of cranberry sauce. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the rice paper to tear. About 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon is a good starting point.
* If using, sprinkle a few thyme leaves over the cranberry sauce.

**4. Wrap the Bites:**

* Fold one side of the rice paper over the filling, then fold in the two adjacent sides, like you’re wrapping a burrito. Make sure to tuck in the sides tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
* Roll the bite up tightly to form a small, neat package. The tighter you roll it, the crispier it will be. Ensure there are no gaps or openings where the filling can escape.
* If the rice paper is tearing, you can double-wrap the bite with another sheet of softened rice paper. Simply repeat step 2 and wrap the first bite in a second layer of rice paper.

**5. Fry or Bake (Your Choice!):**

* **Frying:**
* Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a large frying pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. The oil is ready when a small piece of rice paper dropped into the oil sizzles immediately. It should be around 350°F (175°C).
* Carefully place the wrapped bites into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
* Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn the bites and ensure even cooking.
* Remove the fried bites from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
* **Baking:**
* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
* Brush the wrapped bites with melted butter or olive oil. This will help them to brown and crisp up in the oven.
* Place the bites on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through to ensure even browning.

**6. Serve Immediately:**

* These Crispy Brie and Cranberry Rice Paper Bites are best served warm, when the brie is melty and the rice paper is at its crispiest.
* Arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, if desired. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a nice touch.
* Serve them as an appetizer for your next party or gathering.

## Tips and Variations

* **Get Creative with the Filling:** While brie and cranberry is a classic combination, feel free to experiment with other fillings. Try goat cheese and fig jam, or even a savory filling like prosciutto and pesto. You could also add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor.
* **Add a Spicy Kick:** For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce, or use a jalapeno-infused cranberry sauce.
* **Make it Vegan:** Use a vegan brie alternative and a vegan cranberry sauce to make this recipe vegan-friendly. You can find vegan brie at many health food stores or online.
* **Air Fryer Option:** You can also cook these in an air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the wrapped bites with cooking spray and air fry for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
* **Dipping Sauces:** While these bites are delicious on their own, you can also serve them with a dipping sauce. A balsamic glaze, honey mustard, or even a simple vinaigrette would be delicious.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** If you prefer a less sweet bite, look for sugar-free or low-sugar cranberry sauce. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to the cranberry sauce to balance the sweetness.
* **Prevent Sticking:** To prevent the rice paper from sticking to your work surface, lightly dampen the surface with water before placing the softened rice paper on it.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

These bites can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Fry or bake them just before serving.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Holiday Appetizer:** These are perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve gatherings.
* **Cocktail Party Snack:** Serve them as a sophisticated snack at your next cocktail party.
* **Game Day Appetizer:** Surprise your friends with these unique and delicious bites during the next game.
* **Elegant Brunch:** Add them to your brunch spread for a touch of elegance.
* **Romantic Dinner:** Serve them as a starter for a special romantic dinner.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

* Calories: 80-120 per bite
* Fat: 5-8g
* Saturated Fat: 3-5g
* Cholesterol: 15-25mg
* Sodium: 50-100mg
* Carbohydrates: 5-8g
* Fiber: 0-1g
* Sugar: 2-5g
* Protein: 2-4g

## Conclusion

These Crispy Brie and Cranberry Rice Paper Bites are a delightful and unexpected appetizer that’s sure to impress. With their unique texture, delicious flavor combination, and easy preparation, they’re a perfect addition to any gathering. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple instructions, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable appetizer. Happy cooking!

Enjoy your delicious Crispy Brie and Cranberry Rice Paper Bites! I hope you and your guests will love them as much as I do.

This recipe is truly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, fillings, and herbs to create your own signature version. The possibilities are endless!

I would love to see your creations! Please share your photos and comments in the comment section below.