Holiday Cheer: Cranberry & Brie Fruitcake Bites

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Nothing says cozy holiday get-together like a sweet and savory bite to delight every palate. These mini fruitcake bites take inspiration from the classic fruitcake but add a modern twist—creamy Brie and tangy cranberries—for an unexpected, crowd-pleasing treat. Best of all, they’re quick to make and even easier to serve.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1 cup mixed candied fruit, finely diced
  • ½ cup orange juice (or apple juice)
  • 8 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and cubed
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
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Instructions

Begin by combining the chopped cranberries and candied fruit in a small bowl. Pour the orange juice over them, letting the mixture soak for about 15 minutes. This not only softens the fruit but also infuses them with a refreshing citrusy flavor.

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Meanwhile, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, brown sugar, and, if you’d like a bit of warm spice, that pinch of cinnamon. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and melted butter. Stir the egg mixture into the dry ingredients, folding just until combined. Drain any excess juice from the fruit and gently fold the soaked fruit into the batter.

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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper cups for easier removal. Spoon a small amount of the batter into each cup, filling about halfway. Drop a cube of Brie into each cup and top with another spoonful of batter, covering the cheese. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until gently golden on top. Let the bites cool slightly before popping them out.

These Cranberry & Brie Fruitcake Bites are that perfect sweet-savory treat you can serve at festive gatherings or even tuck into a lunchbox for a holiday-inspired snack. They give you the comforting flavors of classic fruitcake—complete with dried fruit, subtle spice, and sweetness—balanced by creamy, melty Brie. If you’re looking to switch things up, try blue cheese crumbles for a sharper bite or cheddar for a mellow twist. Ideal for any holiday table, these mini bites are sure to make everyone feel the warmth of the season.

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.