Cranberry, Brie & Thyme Phyllo Cups: A Sweet and Savory Treat for Festive Gatherings

There’s something about the combination of flavors in these Cranberry, Brie & Thyme Phyllo Cups that perfectly captures the essence of holiday gatherings. Sweet, savory, creamy, and a bit tangy – these bite-sized delights will impress family and friends from the first taste. The warm Brie pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries, while fresh thyme adds an herby aroma that complements each flavor. Plus, they’re so simple to make and look stunning on any holiday table!

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a New Year’s Eve party, these phyllo cups make a fantastic appetizer or festive snack. If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s both easy and crowd-pleasing, these Cranberry, Brie & Thyme Phyllo Cups are a must-try!

Why You’ll Love These Cranberry, Brie & Thyme Phyllo Cups

• Perfect for Holiday Gatherings: These little bites bring all the festive flavors of the season into a single, handheld snack.
• Sweet, Savory, and Creamy: The creamy Brie, tart cranberries, and earthy thyme create a beautiful blend of flavors.
• Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, you can prepare a gourmet-looking appetizer in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Ideal for all sorts of gatherings, from formal holiday dinners to casual family gatherings.

What Do Cranberry, Brie & Thyme Phyllo Cups Taste Like?

The flavors in these phyllo cups are a delightful mix. The Brie melts into a creamy layer, balancing the fresh, tart cranberries perfectly. A drizzle of honey brings out the natural sweetness, while the thyme adds depth and a touch of earthiness. Each bite has the perfect blend of crispy, creamy, sweet, and savory elements.

Ingredients for Cranberry, Brie & Thyme Phyllo Cups

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious recipe together:

• 1 package phyllo dough cups (about 15 cups)
• 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, coarsely chopped
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• Salt and pepper, to taste

this Recipe

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Small bowl for mixing the cranberry mixture
• Pastry brush for butter

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

1. Goat Cheese or Camembert: Substitute Brie with goat cheese or Camembert for a slightly tangier or earthier flavor.
2. Dried Cranberries: In a pinch, dried cranberries can replace fresh ones. Soak them in a bit of warm water to plump them up before chopping.
3. Maple Syrup: Use maple syrup instead of honey if you prefer a different kind of sweetness.
4. Rosemary: If you love stronger herbs, rosemary could be a great alternative to thyme.
5. Nuts: Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy twist.

How to Make Cranberry, Brie & Thyme Phyllo Cups

Ready to bring these festive bites to life? Let’s go step-by-step to make this recipe.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and set out your baking sheet.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo Cups

Arrange the phyllo cups on a baking sheet. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat each cup with melted butter. This will add extra flavor and help the phyllo become golden and crispy.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry-Thyme Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the coarsely chopped cranberries, honey, fresh thyme leaves, a pinch of salt, and a bit of pepper. Stir well to mix everything together. This mixture will bring brightness and a hint of sweetness to each bite.

Step 4: Fill the Phyllo Cups

Place a cube of Brie cheese into each phyllo cup, then top with a spoonful of the cranberry-thyme mixture. Fill each cup generously so every bite has the perfect blend of cheese and cranberry filling.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the phyllo cups for 8-10 minutes, or until the Brie is melted and the phyllo cups are golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.

Step 6: Add a Finishing Touch

Once out of the oven, drizzle each cup with a bit of balsamic glaze if desired. This adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, elevating the flavor. Garnish with a few extra thyme leaves for a fresh, festive look.

What to Serve with Cranberry, Brie & Thyme Phyllo Cups

These phyllo cups make an elegant addition to any appetizer spread. Here are some pairing ideas:

• Charcuterie Boards: Place these alongside cured meats, nuts, and other cheeses for a perfect appetizer spread.
• Bubbly or White Wine: Sparkling wine or a crisp white wine pairs well with the creamy Brie and tangy cranberry.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry, Brie & Thyme Phyllo Cups

• Keep an Eye on the Oven: Phyllo cups can brown quickly, so check on them a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time.
• Use Cold Brie: Cold Brie is easier to cut into cubes and will hold its shape better in the cups.
• Extra Garnish: A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a few pomegranate seeds add extra color and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat

These phyllo cups are best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to re-crisp the phyllo.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make Cranberry, Brie & Thyme Phyllo Cups ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the cranberry-thyme mixture and cube the Brie ahead of time. Then assemble and bake right before serving for the best texture.

Can I use puff pastry instead of phyllo cups?

Phyllo cups are the best for this recipe because they are already formed into little cups, but you could use puff pastry squares as an alternative, folding them around the filling.

Are these phyllo cups suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.

How do I prevent the phyllo cups from getting soggy?

Brushing the cups with melted butter before filling them helps to keep the phyllo crispy. Also, avoid overfilling with the cranberry mixture, as too much moisture can make them soggy.

Wrapping Up: A Festive Appetizer Everyone Will Love

Cranberry, Brie & Thyme Phyllo Cups bring so much to the table – flavor, beauty, and holiday spirit! They’re easy to make, gorgeous to serve, and disappear in minutes. Whether you’re preparing for a small gathering or a large celebration, these phyllo cups will make a memorable and delicious addition to your appetizer lineup.

For more festive bites, check out these other holiday-ready recipes:

• Cranberry Brie Mini Tarts: A Perfect Holiday Appetizer
• Puff Pastry Brie Bites
• Spinach and Artichoke Wonton Cups

Ready to try them? Share your thoughts, reviews, and even photos on Pinterest at EMMARECIPES18 to show off your creations! And if you’re looking for more holiday appetizer ideas, check out our other crowd-pleasers featuring seasonal flavors.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 4g

Indulge in these bite-sized phyllo cups for a little holiday magic!

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