Pear and Brie Puff Pastry Bites
Pear and Brie Puff Pastry Bites are little pockets of deliciousness that combine the sweet, juicy flavor of ripe pears with the creamy, rich goodness of Brie cheese, all wrapped…
Tip: save now, cook later.Pear and Brie Puff Pastry Bites are little pockets of deliciousness that combine the sweet, juicy flavor of ripe pears with the creamy, rich goodness of Brie cheese, all wrapped up in light, flaky puff pastry. These bites are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or part of a party spread—they’re sophisticated but easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
I love making these when friends come over because they always disappear fast! The contrast between the tender pear and the melting Brie inside the crisp pastry is something I find really satisfying. Sometimes I sprinkle a bit of fresh thyme or drizzle honey on top to give a hint of extra flavor that really brings everything together. It’s a combination that feels special but doesn’t take forever in the kitchen.
These bites are fantastic served warm, right out of the oven. I like to pair them with a simple green salad or a glass of white wine to keep things light and fresh. They also make a great snack to keep on hand when you want something a little fancy without much effort. I often find myself reaching for them during cozy evenings or when I want to impress guests without standing over the stove too long.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the base, giving your bites that flaky, buttery texture. Frozen sheets work great and save time. If unavailable, phyllo dough is a lighter but less flaky alternative.
Pear: Choose ripe but firm pears like Bartlett or Bosc. They hold their shape well when baked and bring sweetness without getting mushy. Apples can substitute if pears aren’t in season.
Brie Cheese: Soft and creamy, Brie melts beautifully here. You can swap it for Camembert for a similar taste or cream cheese for a milder, less rich option.
Brown Sugar or Honey: These add a touch of sweetness and help caramelize the pears. Maple syrup is a nice substitute too, especially if you want a deeper flavor.
Fresh Thyme: It adds a subtle earthiness. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried thyme works but use less since it’s more concentrated. Rosemary can also be a nice twist.
How Do I Get the Puff Pastry Golden and Flaky Every Time?
Getting puff pastry just right means keeping it cool and handling it gently:
- Thaw pastry fully but keep it chilled. If it gets too warm, it can become sticky and hard to work with.
- Roll it out lightly on a floured surface to avoid sticking but don’t overwork it or it can lose flakiness.
- Brush edges with egg wash for a shiny, golden finish. Make sure not to let egg wash pool as it can burn.
- Bake on a parchment-lined sheet so the bottom crisps. Place in a hot oven (around 400°F) for puffiness and that crisp golden color.
- Avoid opening the oven early to prevent the pastry from collapsing.
With these tips, your pastry will puff nicely and offer the perfect crispy texture that contrasts with the soft pear and melted Brie inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – to hold the puff pastry bites as they bake evenly and get crispy.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Sharp knife – for slicing pears and cutting puff pastry into neat squares.
- Pastry brush – perfect for applying the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
- Mixing bowl – to gently toss pears with thyme or spices if you want to add flavor before baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add caramelized onions for a sweet, deep flavor contrast with the pears.
- Swap Brie for goat cheese to add a tangy twist that pairs well with the fruit.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for crunch and nuttiness.
- Try fresh rosemary instead of thyme for a different herbal aroma and taste.
Pear and Brie Puff Pastry Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 large ripe pear (such as Bartlett or Bosc), thinly sliced
- 4 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional Ingredients:
- A pinch of ground black pepper or crushed walnuts for texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to bake. So overall, you’ll spend about 25 to 30 minutes from start to finish—not long at all for a fancy-looking appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.
2. Cut and Arrange the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet gently and cut it into 4 equal squares. Place these squares on your prepared baking sheet, giving them some room to puff up.
3. Add Brie and Pear Layers:
Layer slices of Brie cheese in the center of each puff pastry square, leaving a small border all around. Then, arrange the pear slices on top of the Brie in a pretty fanned pattern, overlapping them slightly.
4. Sweeten and Season:
Sprinkle brown sugar or drizzle honey evenly over the pears and Brie to add sweetness and help with caramelization. Then, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves for a lovely herbal note. If you like, add a pinch of black pepper or some crushed walnuts for an added crunch.
5. Shape and Finish:
Gently fold up the edges of the puff pastry around the pear and cheese to create a little border. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the exposed pastry edges with the beaten egg. This helps them achieve a shiny, golden look once baked.
6. Bake and Serve:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the Brie cheese inside is melty and soft.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Remove your pear and Brie bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle a few extra fresh thyme leaves on top for a fresh touch, then serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the puff pastry completely in the fridge overnight or for a few hours before using. This helps it roll out smoothly and bake evenly.
How Can I Store Leftover Pear and Brie Puff Pastry Bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a warm oven (about 350°F) for 5–7 minutes to keep the pastry crisp.
Can I Substitute the Pear with Another Fruit?
Absolutely! Apples or figs make great alternatives and pair nicely with Brie. Just slice them thinly like the pear for the best results.
Is There a Way to Make These Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the bites and keep them refrigerated on the baking sheet, covered with plastic wrap, for a few hours before baking. Bake just before serving for the best flakiness.
