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The holiday season is a time for joy, warmth, and, of course, delightful bites that bring everyone together. These Christmas Brie and Pear Phyllo Cups are the perfect festive appetizer to elevate your holiday table. The combination of creamy brie, sweet pears, and a drizzle of honey in crispy phyllo cups is a match made in culinary heaven. They’re quick to assemble, visually stunning, and utterly delicious!
If you’re already dreaming of impressing your guests with a fancy (yet simple) appetizer, these cups are it. Make sure you don’t miss a single recipe! Subscribe to receive more holiday delights straight to your inbox.
Why You’ll Love These Christmas Brie and Pear Phyllo Cups
Perfectly Festive: With their golden phyllo shells and glistening honey drizzle, these cups scream holiday elegance.
Effortless to Make: Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy holiday schedules.
Flavorful Combination: The creamy, melty brie pairs beautifully with the honey-glazed pear, and the optional crunch of nuts adds an extra layer of texture.
Customizable: Switch up the flavors with different fruits or nuts, or even add a spicy jam for a bold twist.
The Taste
Imagine biting into a delicate phyllo cup that shatters gently into creamy brie, tender pear, and the warm sweetness of honey. Each bite offers the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and nutty flavors. And the thyme or rosemary garnish? A whisper of freshness that ties it all together.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delightful cups:
- 8 oz brie cheese: Cut into small cubes. Brie is the star, so pick a creamy, good-quality one.
- 1 pear: Peeled, cored, and diced for a juicy burst of flavor.
- 1 tbsp honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For crunch and richness.
- 12 mini phyllo cups: Store-bought works perfectly, but feel free to make your own if you’re adventurous.
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional): For garnish and a festive flair.
Tools You’ll Need
- Small sauté pan
- Baking sheet
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
Fruit Swap: Try apples, cranberries, or figs in place of pears for a seasonal twist.
Cheese Varieties: Camembert or goat cheese can substitute brie for a slightly different flavor profile.
Vegan Option: Use vegan brie or cream cheese and maple syrup instead of honey.
How to Make Christmas Brie and Pear Phyllo Cups
1. Prepare the Filling
Start by preparing the pear mixture. In a small pan, sauté the diced pear over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until it softens slightly. Stir in the honey and cook for another minute, letting the flavors meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Assemble the Cups
Place the mini phyllo cups on a baking sheet. Add a cube of brie cheese to each cup, followed by a spoonful of the pear mixture.
3. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cups for 8-10 minutes, or until the brie melts and the phyllo shells turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
4. Garnish and Serve
For a final festive touch, sprinkle the cups with chopped walnuts or pecans and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary. Serve them warm for the best experience.
What to Serve with Brie and Pear Phyllo Cups
- A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling rosé.
- A charcuterie board featuring cured meats, crackers, and fresh fruits.
- Other holiday appetizers like stuffed mushrooms or cranberry meatballs.
Tips for Perfect Phyllo Cups
Don’t Overfill: Too much brie or filling can spill over during baking.
Work Quickly: If using homemade phyllo dough, keep it covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
Serve Immediately: These cups are best enjoyed warm for maximum flavor and texture.
Storage Instructions
While these are best served fresh, you can prepare them ahead of time:
Before Baking: Assemble the cups and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
After Baking: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them up to a day in advance and bake just before serving for the freshest results.
Can I use a different fruit?
Absolutely! Cranberries, apples, or even figs make wonderful substitutes.
Are phyllo cups gluten-free?
Most store-bought phyllo cups contain gluten. Look for gluten-free options or make your own if needed.
Bring the Festive Joy
These Christmas Brie and Pear Phyllo Cups are an appetizer that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!). Their elegance and flavor make them an instant hit, whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a large holiday party.
Craving more? Try these festive recipes:
- Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes – A citrusy, pillowy breakfast to brighten up your holiday mornings.
- Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip – A creamy, tangy dip perfect for pairing with crackers or fresh bread.
- Merry Christmas Sugar Cookies – Classic sugar cookies that bring all the nostalgia and fun to your celebrations.
Don’t forget to leave a review and share your creations on Pinterest or Instagram using #BrieAndPearCups. We love seeing your holiday masterpieces!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
Enjoy every warm, cheesy, festive bite!
PrintChristmas Brie and Pear Phyllo Cups
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 phyllo cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Christmas Brie and Pear Phyllo Cups are the ultimate festive appetizer! Creamy brie, honey-glazed pears, and optional crunchy nuts come together in crisp phyllo cups to create a stunning and flavorful holiday treat. Perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort, this recipe is a must-have for your holiday menu.
Ingredients
- 8 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 pear, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 12 mini phyllo cups (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a small pan, sauté the diced pear over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add honey and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Cups: Place the phyllo cups on a baking sheet. Add a cube of brie cheese to each cup and top with the pear mixture.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the phyllo cups for 8-10 minutes, or until the brie is melted and the phyllo is golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with nuts and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- These cups are best served immediately, but they can be prepped a day in advance and baked fresh before serving.
- Customize the filling by swapping pears for apples, cranberries, or figs.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a festive and aromatic touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday / Festive
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 phyllo cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg