These Maple Bacon Brie Bites are a tasty treat! Imagine warm, gooey brie cheese topped with crispy bacon and a drizzle of sweet maple syrup, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry.
Perfect for a party or a cozy night in! I love to pop them in the oven and dig in while they’re hot. It’s hard to eat just one—trust me, they disappear fast! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry makes the bites light and airy. If you’re out, you can use phyllo dough, but the texture will be different. Just layer a few sheets together and cut them into squares.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creamy richness. If you can’t find it, Camembert is a good alternative, or even cream cheese, though it won’t have the same flavor.
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives a savory touch. You can use turkey bacon or even prosciutto if you want a lighter option. Both will change the flavor slightly but still add a nice crunch.
Walnuts: They add a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies, feel free to omit them or use sunflower seeds for a similar texture.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is best for that sweet, rich flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute.
How Do I Make My Puff Pastry Perfectly Golden?
Getting that perfect golden color on your pastry can be a bit tricky, but here’s how to nail it!
- Brush the pastry edges with egg wash before baking. This elevates the color and gives it a beautiful shine.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is different, so start checking at 15 minutes. You want it golden and puffed!
- Let them cool for a minute before removing from the tin. This helps them hold their shape better.
How to Make Maple Bacon Brie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz brie cheese
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: fresh thyme for garnish
Time Estimate:
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 15-18 minutes for baking, giving you a total of around 40 minutes from start to serve. Perfect for a quick appetizer at your next gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, grab a mini muffin tin and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Cut the Puff Pastry:
Unroll your thawed puff pastry sheet and use a sharp knife to cut it into 24 small squares, about 2×2 inches each. This will form the base of your bites.
3. Form Pastry Cups:
Take each puff pastry square and press it firmly into the cups of the mini muffin tin. Make sure it covers the bottom and sides so it can hold all the delicious fillings!
4. Prepare the Brie:
Cut the brie cheese into small pieces, ensuring each piece fits comfortably into the pastry cups. Set these aside for later.
5. Cook the Bacon:
Chop the bacon into small bits and cook it in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy and browned. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, placing it on paper towels to drain. Don’t forget to save about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan!
6. Toast the Walnuts:
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the chopped walnuts and toast them lightly for about 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Then, mix the crispy bacon pieces back into the skillet with the walnuts.
7. Assemble the Bites:
Now it’s time to assemble! Place a piece of brie in each puff pastry cup, followed by a spoonful of the bacon and walnut mixture on top.
8. Add Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk the egg to create an egg wash. Use a brush to apply this wash gently to the edges of each puff pastry cup, giving them that golden, crispy finish.
9. Bake:
Carefully place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. You want them to be puffed, golden brown, and the brie melted to perfection.
10. Finish with Maple Syrup:
Once baked, remove the bites from the oven. Drizzle each bite with pure maple syrup for that sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
11. Optional Garnish:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves on top for added flavor and a lovely presentation.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these warm right from the oven to your guests or family. Watch them disappear quickly—you might want to make a double batch!
Can I Use Store-Bought Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry is perfect for this recipe and saves time. Just make sure to thaw it according to package instructions before using.
How Do I Store Leftover Maple Bacon Brie Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to get the pastry crisp again!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bites up to the baking step, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Just remember to brush with egg wash right before baking for that golden finish.
What Can I Use Instead of Walnuts?
If you have nut allergies or just prefer not to use walnuts, feel free to substitute with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. The bites will still be delicious without the nuts!
