Save to Pinterest A vibrant, zesty appetizer featuring sweet-tart cranberries, spicy jalapeños, and a medley of colorful vegetables nestled in buttery tartlet shells, perfect for parties or festive gatherings.
The first time I made these tartlets, I brought them to a holiday potluck and watched them disappear within minutes—everyone loved the burst of tangy cranberries with the unexpected jalapeño heat.
Ingredients
- Tartlet Shells: 12 mini tartlet shells (store-bought or homemade, approx. 2-inch diameter)
- Cranberry Jalapeño Filling: 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed), 1 small jalapeño (seeded and finely diced), 3 tbsp granulated sugar, 2 tbsp fresh orange juice, 1/2 tsp orange zest, 1/4 cup red bell pepper (finely diced), 1/4 cup yellow bell pepper (finely diced), 1/4 cup green bell pepper (finely diced), 2 tbsp red onion (finely minced), 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped), Pinch of salt
- Garnish: 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese (optional), Extra chopped cilantro or scallion greens
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Cranberries:
- In a food processor, pulse cranberries until coarsely chopped. Transfer to a bowl.
- Mix Filling:
- Add jalapeño, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, diced bell peppers, red onion, cilantro, and salt. Mix well and let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Fill Shells:
- Arrange tartlet shells on a baking sheet. Fill each shell generously with the cranberry jalapeño mixture.
- Bake:
- Bake tartlets for 10–12 minutes until the shells are crisp and the filling is bubbling gently.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with crumbled feta and extra cilantro or scallion greens if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save to Pinterest These tartlets have become a staple at our family's holiday table—they're a bright, sharable treat that gets everyone talking and reaching for seconds.
Required Tools
Food processor, mixing bowl, baking sheet, and spoon are needed for simple assembly and baking.
Allergen Information
Contains gluten if using regular tartlet shells and dairy if garnished with feta; check packaging for traces of nuts or soy.
Nutritional Information
Each tartlet contains approximately 90 calories, 3 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Try these tartlets for your next party—they're sure to impress with their color and zing. The contrast of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors makes each bite exciting.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, thaw frozen cranberries first and proceed as directed. The texture and flavor remain delicious.
- → How spicy are these tartlets?
The spice level is mild to medium. Adjust jalapeño amount to suit your preference for heat.
- → Can I make tartlets ahead?
Prepare and bake tartlets a few hours ahead. Add garnishes just before serving for freshness.
- → Is there a vegan alternative for feta?
Use plant-based feta substitutes or omit the cheese for a dairy-free, vegan-friendly appetizer.
- → Do tartlet shells need to be homemade?
Store-bought shells work well for convenience, but homemade tartlet bases offer personal touch and flavor.
- → What drinks pair well with tartlets?
Enjoy with sparkling wine, crisp white wine, or refreshing non-alcoholic sparkling beverages for contrast.