Mini Cranberry Brie Crescent Rolls: Your New Holiday Favorite

Picture this: creamy, melty brie cheese and sweet-tart cranberry sauce, all wrapped up in a flaky, buttery crescent roll pillow. It’s a little bundle of holiday joy that comes together in a flash. Seriously, could there be a more perfect bite for a busy party host? These little rolls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining classic flavors that just scream celebration. They’re the appetizer that looks like you fussed for hours, but we’ll keep our little secret—it’s incredibly simple. They’re the perfect addition to any festive spread, from a big family Thanksgiving to a casual Friendsgiving potluck.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re going to adore these Mini Cranberry Brie Crescent Rolls for so many reasons. First, they are so, so easy. With just three main ingredients, you can have a stunning appetizer ready in under 30 minutes. That’s a lifesaver when you’re juggling a dozen other dishes. They’re also incredibly versatile. I’ve served these at everything from fancy Christmas parties to laid-back game days, and they disappear every single time. And let’s be honest, the combination of warm, gooey brie and sweet cranberry is just pure comfort. It’s a flavor combo that feels special and festive without any stress. So good.

Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough – for that flaky, buttery base that’s a total timesaver.
• 4 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small cubes – it gets wonderfully melty and rich.
• 1/3 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce – provides a sweet and tangy burst of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional) – for a golden, shiny finish on the rolls.
• Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional) – adds a lovely aromatic touch and makes them look gourmet.

Step by Step Method

1. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Carefully unroll the crescent dough and separate it into the pre-cut triangles along the perforated lines.
3. Place a small cube of brie and about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce at the wide end of each dough triangle.
4. Gently roll up each triangle, starting from the wide end where the filling is, and tuck the ends slightly to seal in the goodness. Place each roll point-side down on your prepared baking sheet.
5. If you’re using it, lightly brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter. This gives them a beautiful golden color.
6. Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed up and a deep golden brown. Let them cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before serving—the filling will be molten hot!

Oven Temperatures for Perfect Rolls

Getting the oven temperature right is key for that perfect flaky texture. 375°F is the sweet spot for crescent rolls. It’s hot enough to make the dough puff up quickly and become golden, but not so hot that the outside burns before the inside is cooked. If your oven runs hot, you might want to check them a minute or two early. And honestly, an oven thermometer is a cheap little tool that can save you from so many baking headaches—it’s worth keeping one in there to be sure. If you’re using a convection oven, reduce the temperature by 25 degrees and keep a close eye on them, as they’ll cook a bit faster.

Creative Variations for Your Rolls

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make these rolls your own! They’re a fantastic base for experimentation. For a savory twist, try adding a thin slice of smoked turkey or a pinch of chopped fresh rosemary to the filling. If you love a little heat, a tiny dab of pepper jelly alongside the cranberry is just fantastic. If brie isn’t your thing, a small chunk of sharp cheddar or creamy Camembert works beautifully. You can even swap the cranberry sauce for fig jam or a savory onion marmalade for a different flavor profile. These are your holiday appetizers, so have fun with them!

Serving Ideas & Pairings for Holiday Gatherings

These mini rolls are stars on their own, but they play so well with others. They’re a natural fit for a Thanksgiving charcuterie board, nestled next to some cured meats, nuts, and fresh fruit. For a Friendsgiving food spread, pair them with other easy finger foods like meatballs or a simple veggie platter. They also make a wonderful addition to your Christmas appetizers lineup. I love serving them with a crisp green salad or a warm bowl of soup for a lighter holiday meal. And a glass of chilled Prosecco or a sweet iced tea? Perfection.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

While these are best served warm from the oven, you can store any leftovers. Let them cool completely, then pop them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy again. The microwave will work in a pinch, but it will make the pastry a bit soft. You can also assemble the rolls ahead of time and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking—just add a minute or two to the baking time since they’ll be going in cold.

Doneness Test for Perfectly Baked Rolls

You want that perfect golden-brown color as your main visual cue. They should look puffed and delicious. But the real test is the bottom. Carefully lift one with a spatula—the underside should be a solid, rich golden brown, not pale or doughy. The cheese should be visibly melted and bubbly around the seams. If you’re unsure, you can always use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should be at least 165°F to ensure the dough is fully cooked through.

FAQs About Mini Cranberry Brie Crescent Rolls

• Q: Can I make these Thanksgiving appetizers ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls a day in advance, keep them covered on the baking sheet in the fridge, and then bake them right before your party. It’s one of the easiest Thanksgiving party food tricks.
• Q: What’s the best way to remove the rind from the brie? A: I find it easiest to pop the whole wedge in the freezer for about 15 minutes. It firms up the cheese just enough that you can slice the rind off cleanly with a sharp knife.
• Q: Are these a good option for Friendsgiving appetizers? A: They are perfect! They’re easy, shareable, and feel special without breaking the bank. They’re always a hit on my holiday appetizers table.
• Q: Can I use crescent dough sheets instead of the triangles? A: Yes! A dough sheet is even easier. Just roll it out, cut it into squares, place the filling in the center, and bring the corners up to form a little bundle.

No matter how you serve them, these Mini Cranberry Brie Crescent Rolls are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.