Cranberry Tassies Recipe

There is something truly magical about Cranberry Tassies Recipe that captures the essence of festive warmth and the tangy brightness of fresh cranberries wrapped up in a buttery, tender crust. These delightful mini tarts combine a luscious cream cheese dough with a rich, spiced cranberry filling, creating a perfect bite-sized treat that’s equally at home on holiday dessert tables or as a charming snack any time of year. If you’ve been searching for a recipe that balances sweet and tart with a hint of rosemary’s earthiness, this Cranberry Tassies Recipe will become one of your all-time favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cranberry Tassies Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item plays an important role in crafting the delicate texture of the crust and the vibrant depth of the filling, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced and bursting with flavor.

• Cream cheese (1 8-ounce block, room temperature): Provides a rich, creamy base that makes the crust irresistibly tender and flaky.
• Butter (1 stick, room temperature): Adds buttery richness to the dough and enhances flavor.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups for crust, ⅓ cup for filling): The foundation for both the crisp shell and thickened filling.
• Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons for crust, 1 cup for topping): Balances tartness and adds sweetness throughout the recipe.
• Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon for crust, ½ teaspoon for filling): Enhances all the flavors and prevents the tart from tasting flat.
• Vanilla (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, sweet aroma that complements the cream cheese crust.
• Fresh cranberries (1 12-ounce package): The star ingredient, delivering fresh tartness and a lovely pop of color.
• Brown sugar (1.5 cups): Creates a deep, caramelized sweetness in the filling.
• Water (½ cup): Helps dissolve sugar and cook down cranberries for a luscious jam-like texture.
• Fresh rosemary (2 sprigs plus leaves from 1 sprig): Adds an unexpected earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with cranberries.
• Fresh lemon juice (¼ cup): Brightens the filling with a citrusy tang. Orange juice can be used for a warmer twist.
• Ground cinnamon (¼ teaspoon): Warms the filling with subtle spice.
• Butter (2 tablespoons plus ½ stick melted for topping): Boosts richness in the filling and adds shine and flavor when brushed on the finished tarts.

How to Make Cranberry Tassies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Crust

Start by combining the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth—this step is key for ensuring an ultra-tender crust. Next, blend in the granulated sugar, kosher salt, and vanilla for that hint of sweetness and fragrance. Gradually add the 2 cups of all-purpose flour until the dough just comes together. Be gentle to avoid overworking it, which keeps the crust flaky and soft. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to make rolling easier and to help the crust hold its shape during baking.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Filling

While the dough chills, combine the fresh cranberries, brown sugar, ⅓ cup flour, kosher salt, water, rosemary sprigs, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a glossy, jam-like consistency—this usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Remove the rosemary sprigs and stir in the 2 tablespoons of butter for a velvety finish to your filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Tassies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a small round cutter, about 3 inches in diameter, cut out circles. Gently press each circle into the cups of a mini muffin tin to form little tart shells. Spoon a generous teaspoon of cranberry filling into each shell, being careful not to overfill. Brush the edges of the crust with the melted butter mixed with sugar and finely chopped rosemary leaves to add a beautiful gloss and a pop of color once baked.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake the tassies for 20-25 minutes or until the crusts turn a lovely golden brown and the filling is bubbling gently. Allow the tassies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing them to wire racks. This cooling time helps the filling set and keeps the crust from becoming soggy.

How to Serve Cranberry Tassies Recipe

Garnishes

These tartlets look stunning when garnished with a small sprig of fresh rosemary or a dusting of powdered sugar. The rosemary adds an aromatic visual touch that hints at the flavor inside, while powdered sugar lends a snowy, festive finish perfect for holiday occasions.

Side Dishes

Cranberry Tassies Recipe pairs beautifully with a hot cup of spiced tea or fresh coffee, making them a terrific accompaniment for brunch or afternoon gatherings. They also complement creamy cheeses or a light salad when served during festive meals, providing that balance of tart and sweet.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging Cranberry Tassies on a rustic wooden serving board with small bowls of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese for dipping. You could also serve them alongside warm mulled wine or cider for a cozy, seasonal vibe that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store the Cranberry Tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the crust crisp and the filling fresh without becoming soggy.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked tassies after shaping and before filling by wrapping the muffin tin with plastic wrap, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, freeze fully baked tassies in a single layer with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking; thaw before serving.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked magic, reheat your Cranberry Tassies gently in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes. This refreshes the crust’s crispness and warms the filling just right without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain them slightly before cooking to prevent excess moisture from thinning out the filling too much. The flavor will still be bright and delicious.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, though it will alter the texture and taste somewhat. Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives, and watch the baking time closely as crust texture might vary.

How do I prevent the crust from shrinking?

Chilling the dough thoroughly before baking and making sure not to overwork it helps keep the crust’s shape. Also, press the dough gently but firmly into the muffin tin cups.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, the cranberry filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature or warm slightly before filling the crusts to make assembly easier.

What other fruits could I use instead of cranberry?

Feel free to experiment with tart fruits like cherries, pomegranate seeds, or even a mix of berries. Adjust the sugar accordingly to balance sweetness and tartness.

Final Thoughts

There is something irresistibly charming about whipping up a batch of these Cranberry Tassies Recipe. From the tender, cream cheese-infused crust to the vibrant and spiced cranberry filling, every element is crafted with love and festive flair. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, these little delights bring joy to every occasion. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and add it to your holiday favorites!

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