These Goat Cheese Cranberry Phyllo Cups are a tasty treat that combines creamy goat cheese with sweet cranberry. The crispy phyllo shells make every bite delightful!
They’re perfect for parties or a cozy night in. I love how easy they are to whip up; just fill the cups and bake – so simple yet so impressive! 🧀🍇
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This is the star ingredient for creating those crispy cups. If you can’t find phyllo, you could use puff pastry, but it will have a different texture.
Goat Cheese: The creamy tang of goat cheese is essential. If you prefer a milder flavor, cream cheese can be used entirely or in larger proportions. Feta can also work but will give a different taste.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use store-bought cranberry sauce, but I love making my own with fresh cranberries, sugar, and a splash of orange juice. It’s worth the extra effort for freshness!
Nuts: I enjoy walnuts for their flavor and crunch, but pecans or even almonds can make a nice change. Feel free to skip nuts if you have allergies, or use pumpkin seeds instead.
How Can I Make the Phyllo Cups Extra Crispy?
Phyllo dough can be tricky, but the key is in how you prepare it. A few steps will help achieve that perfect crunch:
- Always keep the dough covered with a damp cloth when you’re not using it, so it doesn’t dry out.
- Brush each layer generously with melted butter; this gives a rich flavor and helps the layers crisp up.
- Make sure to bake the cups until golden brown, which ensures they are fully cooked and crispy.
How to Make Goat Cheese Cranberry Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cups:
- 6 sheets phyllo dough
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For The Filling:
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For The Topping:
- 3/4 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or homemade cranberry compote)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to bake, making a total of about 30 minutes to enjoy these scrumptious phyllo cups. Perfect for a quick appetizer or a fun party treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Phyllo Dough:
Take one sheet of phyllo dough and lay it on a clean, dry surface. Brush it lightly with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and brush again. Repeat this process until you have stacked 3 sheets together.
3. Cut and Shape the Cups:
Cut the stacked phyllo sheets into 12 squares (about 4×4 inches each). Gently press each square into the muffin tin, creating little cups. Make sure to repeat this with any remaining phyllo dough and butter!
4. Bake the Phyllo Cups:
Pop the phyllo cups into the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. When they’re done, remove them and let them cool slightly in the tin.
5. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a separate bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, chopped rosemary, and black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are creamy and well combined. This will be the delicious filling for your cups!
6. Fill the Phyllo Cups:
Carefully fill each phyllo cup with about a teaspoon of the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly.
7. Top with Cranberry and Nuts:
Next, top each filled cup with a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Then, sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans on top for a tasty crunch!
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, garnish each cup with a small sprig of rosemary for a pretty finish. Serve immediately and enjoy these wonderful bites packed with flavor!
These elegant phyllo cups are sure to impress and make the perfect addition to any gathering. Enjoy the balance of creamy goat cheese, sweet cranberry, and the crunchy texture of phyllo with every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Phyllo Dough Instead?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the phyllo dough overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before use. This will make it easier to manage and layer without tearing.
Can I Prepare These Cups in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the phyllo cups a few hours ahead of time. Just bake them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container. Assemble and fill them just before serving to keep the phyllo crispy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to crisp them back up.
What Other Toppings Work Well?
Feel free to get creative! Other great toppings include caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a sweet and tangy twist.
