These Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups are a delicious and fancy appetizer that’s super easy to make! With crispy phyllo pastry, creamy brie cheese, and tangy cranberry sauce, they’re simply delightful!
Every bite feels like a party in your mouth! Seriously, who can resist that gooey brie paired with sweet cranberry? I love serving them warm, and they vanish quickly from the platter!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This is the star of the show! It gives the cups their flaky texture. If you can’t find phyllo, you could try using puff pastry, but the texture won’t be quite the same.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creaminess and a slight nuttiness. You could substitute it with Camembert for similar flavor or a soft goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce. If you’re in the mood for something different, try using a fruit chutney or even a berry conserve for a new flavor profile.
Fresh Herbs: While rosemary and thyme are great options for garnish, feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or even candied pecans for added texture and taste.
How Do You Work with Phyllo Dough Without It Drying Out?
Phyllo dough can dry out quickly, so it’s important to keep it covered as you work. Here’s how to handle it:
- Always keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
- Work quickly. When layering and brushing with butter, try not to leave the phyllo exposed for too long.
- Use cooking spray or a light brush of melted butter between layers for added richness and to help them stay crisp when baking.
Following these tips will help you create beautiful, crispy cups that are full of flavor! Enjoy making these tasty bites!
Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small cubes
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (fresh or canned)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to bake. In just about 25 minutes, you’ll have delicious, warm Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups ready to impress your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating and Preparing
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating, lightly brush a mini muffin tin with some melted butter to keep the phyllo cups from sticking.
2. Working with Phyllo Dough
Now, take one sheet of phyllo dough and lay it flat on a clean work surface. Remember to keep the remaining phyllo covered with a damp towel so it doesn’t dry out.
3. Layering the Phyllo
Brush the first sheet of phyllo with a little melted butter. Then, place another sheet on top and brush it again with butter. Repeat this process until you’ve stacked 4 sheets in total, each brushed with butter.
4. Cutting and Shaping the Cups
With your layered phyllo, cut it into 12 squares, each about 3×3 inches. Gently press each square into a muffin cup. Be careful—phyllo is delicate, and you want to create nice little cups without tearing them.
5. Adding the Cheese
Now comes the good part! Place a small cube of brie cheese in the bottom of each phyllo cup. Don’t be shy—this is the heart of the dish!
6. Baking the Cups
Pop the mini muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the phyllo is golden and crispy, and the brie is all melty and gooey.
7. Topping with Cranberry Sauce
As soon as they’re out of the oven, take a spoon and add about one tablespoon of cranberry sauce on top of each melted brie cup. The combination is divine!
8. Optional Garnish and Serving
If you like, add a tiny sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme on top for a lovely garnish. Now, they’re ready to be served!
9. Enjoying!
Serve these warm as a tasty appetizer. Enjoy the crispy, creamy, and tangy flavors of your Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups!
Can I Use Frozen Phyllo Dough?
Absolutely! If using frozen phyllo dough, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before starting. This will ensure it’s easy to work with!
Can I Prepare the Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the phyllo cups and fill them with brie cheese in advance. Just cover them and store them in the fridge for a few hours. Bake them just before serving to keep them crispy and fresh!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until they’re warm and crispy again.
Can I Substitute Different Cheeses?
Yes! While brie is delicious, you can swap it out for other soft cheeses like Camembert or goat cheese. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well for that creamy texture!
