Cranberry and brie pastries are a delightful treat that combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the rich creaminess of brie, all wrapped in perfectly flaky puff pastry. These pastries are not only delicious but incredibly easy to prepare, especially when made in an air fryer. Ideal for UK home cooks seeking something impressive yet straightforward, this recipe will guide you to pastry perfection.
Why Use the Air Fryer?
The air fryer is a game-changer for baking, particularly for pastries. It provides even heat distribution and a crisp finish without the need for excessive oil or lengthy oven preheating. This makes it ideal for cooking our cranberry and brie pastries to golden perfection in a fraction of the time it would take in a traditional oven.
Ingredients
- 1 ready-rolled puff pastry sheet
- 200g brie, sliced
- 150g cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
- Fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (360°F).
- Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a flat surface and cut into squares of your desired size. For cocktail-sized pastries, aim for 10cm squares.
- Place a slice of brie in the centre of each pastry square, followed by a generous teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
- Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg, then fold over to create triangles or rectangles, pressing the edges with a fork to seal.
- Arrange the pastries in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching or overcrowded.
- Brush the tops with additional beaten egg for a glossy finish.
- Air-fry the pastries for 8-10 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown.
- Remove the pastries from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute or two before serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary if using.
Serving Suggestions
These cranberry and brie pastries are beautifully versatile. Serve them as canapés at gatherings, enjoy them as a quick afternoon snack, or pair them with a light salad for a sumptuous lunch. The combination of flavours also pairs well with a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling rosé for a more celebratory feel.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your puff pastry is cold but pliable to achieve the best flakiness without cracking.
- If you don’t have fresh cranberry sauce, good quality jarred versions work perfectly well.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket – the air needs to circulate freely for an even cook.
- Experiment with add-ins like chopped walnuts or a pinch of chilli flakes to personalise the flavours.
Conclusion
With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, these cranberry and brie pastries are a showstopper. The air fryer ensures they’re baked to perfection without the fuss, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re impressing guests or simply satisfying a craving, you'll find these pastries a joyous addition to your recipe repertoire.