Name: Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts: Irresistibly Savory Delights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 sheet Frozen Puff Pastry (thawed); 8 oz Brie Cheese (or Camembert); 1 small Pear (slice thinly); 4 oz Prosciutto (or bacon/pancetta); 1 tbsp Fresh Herbs (e.g., Thyme or Rosemary) (for flavor); 2 tbsp Balsamic Glaze (for drizzling)

As I pulled open the oven door, a wave of warm, buttery aroma enveloped me, instantly transporting me to cozy gatherings with friends. These Savory Pear and Brie Bites with Prosciutto transform any mundane moment into a festive occasion. Outfitted in a crisp, flaky puff pastry, the rich brie melts to buttery bliss, harmonizing beautifully with the sweet, caramelized pears and the enticing crunch of savory prosciutto. This recipe is a game changer—not only is it easy to whip up, but it also turns heads at any event, ensuring you’re the culinary star of the gathering. Perfect as holiday appetizers or delightful finger foods, these bites bring a sense of warmth and togetherness to your table. Curious about how to make your next gathering unforgettable? Let’s dive in!

Why are Pear and Brie Bites a must-try?

Irresistible Combination: The blend of creamy brie, sweet pears, and crispy prosciutto creates a flavor explosion that’s simply unforgettable.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you’ll have gourmet appetizers without the fuss.
Versatile Delight: These bites are perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers—pair them with a lovely wine for an elegant touch!
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves finger foods, and these Pear and Brie bites are sure to impress your guests, just like my Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice.
Make Ahead: Prep them beforehand to save time on the day of your event, allowing you to enjoy every moment.
Don’t miss this chance to elevate your appetizer game and bring warmth to your gatherings!

Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Ingredients

For the Bites
• Frozen Puff Pastry – A flaky and crispy base; ensure it’s thawed for easy handling.
• Brie Cheese – Provides creamy richness and melts perfectly; consider using Camembert for a different taste.
• Small Pear – Adds delightful sweetness that balances the prosciutto; Asian pears make a great substitute.
• Prosciutto – Brings in a savory saltiness that elevates these bites; you can use bacon or pancetta for a savory twist.

Optional Garnish
• Fresh Herbs (e.g., Thyme or Rosemary) – A sprinkle adds freshness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Balsamic Glaze – Drizzling it on after baking adds a sweet, tangy finish that complements the ingredients beautifully.

Don’t miss out on creating these delightful Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts that will surely impress your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown color on your Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts. Make sure to give it enough time to heat thoroughly, allowing your pastries to cook evenly and develop that delicious flakiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Tart Cups
While the oven heats up, grease a mini cupcake tray with cooking spray or butter. Cut thawed puff pastry into small rectangles, and gently press each piece into the cups of the tray, ensuring they fit snugly. Each pastry shell should create a delightful vessel for your creamy brie and sweet pear filling.

Step 3: Add the Brie Cheese
Place a small piece of brie cheese in the bottom of each pastry-lined cup. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed, as it will melt beautifully during baking, creating a gooey center. This creamy base will contrast wonderfully with the sweetness of the pear and the saltiness of the prosciutto.

Step 4: Layer in the Pears
Next, slice the small pear thinly and layer a slice atop each piece of brie in the pastry shells. The sweet pear will caramelize slightly in the oven, adding another layer of flavor to the Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts. Ensure each bite has a nice balance of brie and pear.

Step 5: Bake the Tarts
Carefully place the filled mini cupcake tray into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the tarts as they bake; you want the pastry to become golden brown and crispy, while the brie should be bubbly and melted. This transformation is both an exciting and rewarding moment!

Step 6: Garnish with Prosciutto
Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow the tarts to cool slightly. Just before serving, top each warm tart with a piece of fresh prosciutto. The savory crunch of prosciutto enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a beautiful contrast to the soft textures of the brie and pears.

Step 7: Serve Warm
Your Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm for the best melty experience, ideally on a charming platter that showcases their golden, flaky perfection. These delightful bites will surely elevate your next gathering, leaving your guests impressed and satisfied.

What to Serve with Pear and Brie Bites with Prosciutto

Elevate your gathering with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the rich flavors of your appetizers.

Crispy Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the bites.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed in honey bring a warm color and subtle sweetness to your holiday spread.
Savory Cheese Platter: Curate a selection of cheeses paired with dried fruits and nuts for a textural contrast and an elevated snacking experience.
Lightly Toasted Baguette Slices: These provide a perfect vehicle for additional toppings and bring a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Pairing these delightful options with your Pear and Brie Bites creates a diverse and inviting table, perfect for fostering conversation and connection.

Chardonnay or Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light sparkling wine enhances the flavors of the brie and pear, creating a harmonious pairing.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For dessert, these sweet treats contrast beautifully, providing a light finish after savoring the savory bites.

Expert Tips for Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts

Perfect Puff Pastry: Handle the thawed puff pastry gently to maintain its flakiness; avoid overworking it to achieve the crispy texture you desire.
Brie Selection: Opt for high-quality brie for the best creamy flavor. Avoid low-fat varieties, as they may not melt properly and can compromise your tarts.
Even Baking: Keep an eye on the tarts while baking. If they brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning while ensuring the brie stays melty.
Layering Balance: Ensure each tart has an equal amount of brie and pear for the perfect flavor harmony. This balance is key to the deliciousness of your Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts.
Freshness Matters: Garnish only with fresh prosciutto right before serving to maintain its crispness, enhancing both texture and flavor.
Experiment with Variations: Feel free to add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze after baking for a sweet contrast that elevates your already stunning tarts.

Storage Tips for Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts fresh and warm. They can sit out for up to 2 hours before they should be refrigerated to maintain quality.

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain that crispy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked tarts for up to 2 months. Simply prepare and fill them, then wrap tightly before placing in the freezer. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To reheat, use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This will help rejuvenate the flaky pastry while keeping the filling creamy and delicious.

Make Ahead Options

These Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts are perfect for meal prep and can make your entertaining effortless! You can prepare the puff pastry cups filled with brie and pear up to 24 hours in advance; just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Additionally, you can slice and store your prosciutto separately (up to 3 days in advance) for added convenience. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop the filled pastry cups in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes until golden and bubbly, then top with the prosciutto right before serving. This prep-ahead strategy ensures delicious, gourmet bites with minimal stress as your guests arrive!

Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts Variations

Feel free to personalize these delightful bites to suit your taste and gather your culinary creativity!

Fruity Twist: Swap pears for figs or apples for an entirely different flavor profile. The sweetness will shine through in a new light!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic lift. These herbs enhance the overall flavor and bring a refreshing touch.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for added crunch and a rich, nutty flavor. It adds a lovely texture contrast!
Cheese Variety: Substitute brie with Camembert, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar for distinct flavor shifts. Each cheese brings its unique creaminess.
Sweet Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze after baking for extra sweetness and a tangy kick. It’s a delightful contrast to the savory elements.
Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes before baking for a hint of heat. Just enough to surprise your taste buds!
Vegetarian Option: Replace prosciutto with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a completely vegetarian delightful version, still rich in flavor and satisfaction.
Miniature Versions: Make bite-sized versions using a mini pastry cutter for even more elegant appetizers. Perfect for sophisticated gatherings or a finger food selection!

Take these ideas and run with them—make these tarts your own! For more tasty treats, check out my Mexican Ground Beef or Caribbean Chicken Rice, perfect companions for your festive table!

Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe pears for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for pears that give slightly when gently pressed near the stem. They should have a fragrant aroma and a smooth skin. Avoid pears with dark spots or bruises, as they indicate overripeness.

How should I store leftover tarts?
Very! Store any uneaten Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing the container to prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze the unbaked tarts?
Certainly! To freeze, prepare the tarts up to the baking stage, then wrap each individual tart tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, pop them in the oven straight from the freezer and add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my puff pastry doesn’t puff up properly?
If your pastry doesn’t puff up beautifully, it might be due to overworking the dough or not keeping it cold enough. Ensure that your puff pastry is chilled before baking and avoid pressing it too much while shaping it. If you notice it’s not rising, you could also lower the oven temperature slightly to allow more time for the pastry to cook without burning.

Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of?
Great question! Prosciutto is not suitable for those following a strict pork-free diet. If you’re catering to gluten sensitivity or allergies, consider using gluten-free puff pastry. Additionally, people with a dairy allergy might choose to substitute the brie with a dairy-free cheese option for a delicious alternative.

How should I serve these tarts for a holiday gathering?
For the best results, serve your Prosciutto, Pear and Brie Tarts warm right after baking. Pair them with a selection of crisp white wines or sparkling drinks to elevate your holiday gathering atmosphere beautifully.