Cranberry Cream Cheese Canapés are a delightful treat that perfectly marries creamy textures with a hint of sweet-tart fruitiness. Ideal for gatherings, these little bites not only look stunning but also deliver an explosion of flavour in every morsel. Whether it’s a festive celebration or a casual get-together, these canapés are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
What You’ll Need for Cranberry Cream Cheese Canapés
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you need:
- 2 sheets Pillsbury frozen pie crust, thawed overnight in the refrigerator
- 1 large egg
- 8 ounces Philadelphia 1/3 Less Fat Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chile powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Zest of 1 orange
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup Homemade Cranberry Sauce or canned whole berry cranberry sauce or jam of choice
Step-by-Step Cranberry Cream Cheese Canapés Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious canapés:
- Preheat the oven to 200 degrees C (400 degrees F).
- Unroll the first pie crust and use a round cookie cutter or a glass to stamp out 12 rounds.
- Place each round in a mini muffin cup, gently pressing it down to fit the shape of the cup.
- Separate the egg and brush the insides of the cups with the egg white for a glossy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chipotle (if using), kosher salt, and orange zest with the egg yolk. Mix until smooth, then fold in the finely chopped green onions.
- Spoon the cream cheese filling into the baked custard cups, filling them generously.
- Top each filled cup with a dollop of cranberry sauce.
- Bake for an additional 8 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is heated through.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Serve & Enjoy Cranberry Cream Cheese Canapés
These delightful canapés can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the filled cups on a decorative platter. Pair these canapés with a refreshing drink, such as sparkling water or a light, fruity cocktail. You might also consider serving them alongside a crisp salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded snack spread.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Cream Cheese Canapés
- Cream Cheese Variations: Experiment with different flavours of cream cheese; herb-infused or garlic varieties can add an interesting twist to the filling.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the pastry cases in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just fill them with the cream cheese mixture and cranberry sauce right before serving.
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding more chipotle powder or even some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Canapés: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can swap the cream cheese for goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavour profile.
How long can I store leftovers?
These canapés are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Can I freeze these canapés?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pastry cups. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they are properly cooked.
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Canapés are not only easy to make but also a burst of flavour in every bite. Perfect for your next gathering, they’ll definitely be a hit with friends and family. Give them a try and enjoy the compliments you receive!