A Holiday Tradition, Wrapped in Filo
Some recipes don’t just land on the table—they become the table. One December years ago, I made these delicate cranberry and brie filo crackers for a holiday gathering, half expecting them to fall apart. Instead, they disappeared before dinner even started. Someone asked where I bought them. That’s when I knew this festive appetizer had earned its place among the regulars.
It’s not just about flavor—though the combo of gooey brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and toasted almonds hits every note. It’s the look: golden rolls pinched at the ends like little edible presents. Add a sprig of rosemary or a dusting of sesame seeds, and they’re more than food—they’re part of your holiday décor.
The process is surprisingly simple once you get the rhythm. A bit of butter, a roll, a pinch, and the oven does the rest. They’re elegant enough for a holiday dinner but easy enough for a cozy night with mulled wine and a movie.
And the best part? These cranberry and brie filo crackers come out perfectly crisp and flaky—every single time.
Why Cranberry and Brie Filo Crackers Work So Well
There’s something magical about the contrast between creamy and crisp. In this recipe, delicate sheets of filo pastry wrap around warm, melted brie. Add a teaspoon of cranberry sauce for tang and a sprinkle of almonds for nutty crunch, and you’ve got bite-sized brilliance.
The brie softens during baking, the cranberry sauce bubbles slightly, and the almonds toast gently within their filo shell. The outer layers turn golden and flaky, while the centers stay creamy and full of flavor.
It’s a perfect storm of textures—chewy, creamy, crunchy—all in a single bite. Plus, the balance of savory cheese and fruity brightness keeps guests coming back for more. No plate has ever returned to the kitchen with extras.
You’ll find yourself making them for more than just the holidays—they’re that addictive.
Easy Variations of Cranberry and Brie Filo Crackers
Swap, Twist, and Upgrade the Filling
One of the best things about cranberry and brie filo crackers is how easy they are to adapt. The base concept—creamy cheese, a sweet-savory filling, all wrapped in crisp filo—is so flexible that you can create endless flavor combinations to suit the occasion or your pantry.
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few favorite swaps:
Different cheeses: Brie is the classic for its meltability and richness, but don’t stop there. Camembert is a great substitute with a slightly earthier flavor. Goat cheese adds tang and holds its shape a bit more if you want less melt. For a sharper bite, try blue cheese crumbles with a milder fruit chutney.
Fruit fillings: If cranberry sauce isn’t your thing, no problem. Fig preserves add a deep sweetness that pairs well with soft cheeses. Apricot jam, apple butter, or even a spoon of pear compote can lend subtle, unexpected twists. For a brighter taste, orange marmalade with thyme is a surprisingly elegant option.
Crunch factor: While slivered almonds add a light, nutty finish, you can easily swap in crushed pistachios, walnuts, or even pecan pieces. Toast them lightly before using to bring out deeper flavor. Want to skip the nuts? Try crispy fried shallots or a sprinkle of panko for crunch without allergens.
These easy switches mean that once you’ve mastered the basic cracker fold, you can experiment with dozens of flavor profiles—all without changing your baking time or technique.
Seasonal Flair for Festive Tables
Because of their shape and sparkle, cranberry and brie filo crackers already feel like holiday centerpieces. But a few small additions can really make them stand out—especially if you’re building a themed platter or need something photo-ready.
For a Christmas look, sprinkle black and white sesame seeds before baking, and garnish with tiny rosemary sprigs after. They’ll look like little wrapped gifts under a tree. Adding orange zest to the cranberry sauce also gives them that extra festive fragrance.
Hosting a New Year’s Eve party? Use gold-tinted baking spray (available in specialty shops) to lightly mist the crackers just before serving. Serve alongside a chilled glass of prosecco or champagne.
Want a cozy, fall-forward version? Try swapping cranberry for apple chutney and add a touch of cinnamon to the butter. A few thyme leaves on top finish it beautifully and make it feel more rustic than holiday-glam.
Once you get creative with the fillings and garnishes, these little filo crackers can travel from early fall gatherings all the way through winter’s end without ever feeling repetitive.
Cranberry and Brie Filo Crackers
Ingredients
- ▢6 sheets frozen filo pastry thawed
- ▢50 g butter melted
- ▢250 g brie cut into long slices
- ▢275 g cranberry sauce
- ▢¼ cup flakes almonds
- ▢1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180 C / 350 F. Line two baking trays with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Place thawed filo sheets on a flat surface. Divide into 3 lengthways and then cut in half widthways, so you have 36 squares.
- Place one pastry sheet on a flat surface. Cover remaining sheets with a damp towel. Brush pastry sheet with melted butter. Place a brie slice, 1 teaspoon cranberry sauce and 1 teaspoon almond flakes at one end of the square, then roll up the pastry. Pinch both ends to form crackers. Repeat with the remaining filo sheets.
- Transfer filo crackers to the baking trays. Brush with remaining butter. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden.
- Garnish with rosemary leaves or chives.
Notes
Serving: 1g | Calories: 61kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 11mg | Sodium: 66mg | Sugar: 3g
Serve Cranberry and Brie Filo Crackers with Style
How to Plate Like a Pro
Presentation turns these already-delicious cranberry and brie filo crackers into something unforgettable. Because they’re shaped like little edible gifts, they practically style themselves—but with a few thoughtful touches, you can make your holiday table shine.
For a clean, classic look, arrange the crackers on a white ceramic platter, letting the golden filo and deep red cranberry sauce speak for themselves. Tuck sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme between them for a hint of green and a subtle aroma.
Want a rustic vibe? Use a wooden board lined with parchment. Scatter some pomegranate arils or sliced figs around the edges. A few toasted almond flakes or pistachios on the platter also highlight the nutty notes baked into each bite.
Hosting a larger gathering? Serve them in mini cupcake liners—not only does it help keep fingers clean, but it also makes refilling trays faster and neater. This tip is especially handy for buffet-style events.
Make sure to serve warm, so the cheese stays soft and gooey. If prepping ahead, simply reheat in a low oven (300°F) for 5–7 minutes before plating.
These aren’t just appetizers—they’re part of your table’s decoration. Let them be the showpiece.
What to Pair with Filo Crackers
Because cranberry and brie filo crackers hit both sweet and savory notes, they pair beautifully with a wide range of holiday drinks and side bites.
For cocktail hour, serve them with:
- Champagne or a crisp prosecco to cut through the richness of the brie
- Spiced cider or a mulled wine to complement the cranberry’s tart sweetness
- A light Pinot Noir for a fuller-bodied red option that won’t overwhelm
If they’re part of a larger spread, place them alongside:
- Stuffed mushrooms or small quiches for a variety of textures
- A charcuterie board with dried fruits, meats, and cheeses—these crackers fill the “baked cheese” gap beautifully
- Fresh fruit skewers or orange slices for contrast and a palate refresher
You can even offer a small bowl of hot honey or balsamic glaze for dipping—a fancy touch that pairs surprisingly well with the creamy cheese and filo crunch.
Whether you’re serving six guests or sixty, these crackers bring both visual charm and rich holiday flavor to the table.
Make-Ahead Tips & How to Store Cranberry and Brie Filo Crackers
Plan Ahead Without Losing Freshness
The delicate texture of filo pastry may seem tricky to prep in advance, but cranberry and brie filo crackers actually lend themselves well to make-ahead planning—with a few smart adjustments.
If you’re prepping before a holiday party or dinner, the best approach is to assemble the crackers unbaked and refrigerate them. Lay the filled crackers in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray, then cover tightly with plastic wrap. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
When ready to serve, brush with melted butter (if not done already), sprinkle with sesame seeds, and bake as directed. No need to bring them to room temperature—the oven will take care of that.
If you’re short on time the day of your event, even preparing just the filling and filo layout ahead of time can save minutes. Slice the brie and measure the cranberry sauce and almonds so all you have to do is roll and bake.
Avoid freezing them before baking, as filo pastry becomes difficult to work with after thawing. However, freezing already baked crackers is possible—just follow the tips below.
How to Store Leftovers and Reheat Like New
Got a few crackers left? Here’s how to keep them from going soft or soggy.
Let the baked crackers cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container with a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them on a baking tray in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes. This brings back the flaky texture while keeping the brie soft inside. Avoid microwaving—they’ll go limp and lose their crispness fast.
If you want to freeze baked crackers, wrap each one tightly in foil and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for about 12–15 minutes, until hot and golden.
These simple tricks make it easy to enjoy cranberry and brie filo crackers even after the holiday rush is over. Whether you’re prepping for a party or savoring leftovers with a glass of wine, their elegance and flavor will still shine through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use puff pastry instead of filo?
Puff pastry works, but the result is richer and heavier. Filo gives that signature light, shattering crunch. If using puff, reduce the filling slightly and bake until golden and puffed.
2. Can I prepare these filo crackers ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them up to 24 hours in advance, store covered in the fridge, and bake just before serving. They’re crisp, fresh, and perfect every time.
3. What can I substitute for cranberry sauce?
Try fig jam, apricot preserves, or apple butter. These all complement brie and offer sweet-savory balance. Just keep the amount small to prevent leaking.
4. How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Use two sheets of filo brushed with butter, and roll tightly while keeping ends pinched. Avoid overfilling and work on a dry surface with dry hands.
Conclusion
Delicate, golden, and packed with flavor, cranberry and brie filo crackers are more than just an appetizer—they’re a celebration of texture, color, and comfort. With flaky pastry, melty brie, tart cranberry, and nutty crunch, these festive bites are as stunning on the plate as they are easy to make.
Perfect for gatherings, gifts, or a quiet night in with mulled wine, this recipe is a simple reminder of how the right flavors can turn small things into something truly special. One bite, and they’ll be your new holiday go-to.
