
Cranberry and brie filo crackers are everything I want for a holiday gathering—crisp filo pastry wrapped around melty brie and sweet cranberry sauce with just a hint of crunch from toasted almonds. They look so festive on the table and never last more than a few minutes once guests arrive.
I remember making these for my first ever holiday dinner party. They disappeared so quickly that I doubled the batch the very next year. Now they are my go to for December gatherings.
Ingredients
- Filo pastry: Brings crunch and flaky layers be sure to thaw it properly for easy handling
- Butter: For brushing each layer for rich flavor and golden color choose a good quality unsalted butter
- Brie: Creamy and mild with a melty texture try to buy a wedge that is firm and easy to slice
- Cranberry sauce: Adds bright tartness go for whole berry sauce for more texture
- Flaked almonds: Provide irresistible crunch lightly toast them for extra flavor
- Black sesame seeds: Sprinkled on top for subtle nutty taste and pretty finish buy a fresh small packet for the holidays
- Choose brie that is just chilled enough to slice neatly without squishing and keep your filo pastry covered with a damp towel so it does not dry out
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Trays:
- Line two trays with parchment paper and set your oven to the correct temperature so you are ready to bake as soon as the crackers are rolled
- Cut and Organize Filo Pastry:
- Lay the thawed filo on a clean flat surface work quickly so it stays supple slice lengthways into three strips then crosswise so you end up with thirty six even squares cover everything not in use with a damp towel to keep the pastry from cracking
- Assemble the Crackers:
- Lay one square of filo in front of you and lightly brush it with melted butter this helps it crisp up and turn a beautiful golden brown place a piece of brie near one end a spoon of cranberry sauce and a small pinch of almonds then roll it up gently and pinch both ends to create a cute cracker shape
- Fill the Trays:
- Arrange each cracker onto your prepared trays give them space so they crisp and do not steam brush the tops with the rest of your melted butter and scatter a pinch of black sesame seeds on each one
- Bake until Golden:
- Pop trays into your hot oven and let them bake for about fifteen to twenty minutes keep an eye as they brown quickly take them out when puffed and deep golden
- Finishing Touch:
- If you want extra festive flair add a few rosemary leaves or chives just before serving for color and fragrance

My favorite part is the burst of tart cranberry against the creamy brie every bite reminds me of celebrating Christmas with my grandmother who always snuck a few of these crackers before dinner
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days
- If you want to make ahead assemble the crackers and freeze them before baking then bake straight from the freezer with a couple extra minutes added to the cook time
- Reheat in the oven to revive their crispiness never the microwave
Ingredient Substitutions
- Swap brie for camembert or any soft cheese with a creamy texture
- Use raspberry or cherry jam if you are out of cranberry sauce
- Chopped pecans or walnuts work nicely instead of almonds for extra buttery crunch
Serving Suggestions
- Scatter the crackers on a big platter and garnish with rosemary or thyme sprigs or nestle them between other finger foods for an abundant holiday board
- Serve with mulled wine or sparkling cider for the perfect pre dinner snack
- Wrap with parchment and a ribbon for an edible table favor

Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare these filo crackers ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the crackers a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving for best results.
- → What can I use instead of brie?
Camembert or a similar soft, creamy cheese works well as a substitute for brie in this appetizer.
- → How do I prevent the filo pastry from drying out?
Keep unused filo sheets covered with a damp towel while assembling to maintain their pliability and stop them from drying.
- → Are there nut-free alternatives for the almonds?
You can omit the almonds or replace them with toasted seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a nut-free option.
- → What is the best way to serve these crackers?
Arrange the crackers on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as rosemary or chives, for an elegant presentation.