These Brie cranberry phyllo cups are like little bites of joy! Crispy phyllo dough wraps around creamy Brie cheese and sweet-tart cranberry sauce for a tasty treat.
Perfect for parties, they disappear fast! I could eat a dozen of these while pretending to be classy. 🧀🎉 Just pop them in the oven and watch the magic happen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This is crucial for that delightful crunch. If you can’t find phyllo, try using puff pastry instead. While it won’t be quite the same, it’ll still be delicious and flaky!
Brie Cheese: Brie is perfect due to its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, Camembert works well too. Just make sure to cut off the rind as it’s stronger in flavor.
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade cranberry sauce is fantastic if you have the time, but store-bought is totally okay! For a twist, you can substitute cranberry sauce with fig jam or even apple chutney.
Fresh Rosemary: This delicate herb adds a lovely visual and aromatic touch. If you don’t have it, feel free to leave it out or use thyme or even parsley for a pop of color.
How Do I Work with Phyllo Dough Without It Getting Stale?
Phyllo dough can dry out quickly, so here’s how to keep it fresh while you work:
- Work quickly. Open the package just before you’re ready to assemble.
- Keep unused sheets covered with a damp cloth. This prevents them from drying out.
- Brush each layer with melted butter to keep phyllo moist and tasty.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy cups every time!
Brie Cranberry Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cups:
- 6 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Filling:
- 8 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and assembling the cups, and then about 15 minutes baking them in the oven. They are quick, easy, and perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing to Bake:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a mini muffin tin and give it a light grease with non-stick spray or a little butter to ensure your cups come out easily.
2. Working with Phyllo Dough:
Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean counter or cutting board and brush it lightly with melted butter using a pastry brush. Place a second sheet on top and brush it with butter again. Repeat this process with two more sheets, so you have a stack of four layers, all buttered and ready to go!
3. Cutting and Shaping the Cups:
Now, take the stacked phyllo sheets and cut them into 12 equal squares. These will be used to line your muffin tin. Gently press each square down into the muffin cups to form cute little cups for your filling.
4. Adding Cheese and Sauce:
Place a small piece of Brie cheese into each phyllo cup. Don’t be shy; a nice chunk is great for that melty goodness! Top each cup with about a tablespoon of cranberry sauce. This sweet-tart layer is what makes these cups so special!
5. Baking to Perfection:
Pop the mini muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the phyllo to turn a lovely golden brown and see the cheese just melting beautifully.
6. Serving Up the Goodness:
Once baked, carefully remove the cups from the oven. Let them cool for a minute or two, then gently take them out of the muffin tin. If you’d like, garnish each cup with a fresh sprig of rosemary for an extra touch of flavor and color. Serve warm and enjoy these delightful treats!
These Brie Cranberry Phyllo Cups are sure to be a hit! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry sauce works perfectly for this recipe and saves time. Just choose your favorite brand or flavor to match your taste!
How Can I Make These Cups Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the phyllo cups and fill them with cheese and cranberry sauce a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them to ensure they stay fresh!
What Can I Substitute for Brie Cheese?
If Brie isn’t your thing, Camembert is a great alternative as it has a similar creamy texture. You could also try a mild cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through for the best texture.
