These tasty Brie and Fig Phyllo Cups are a mix of creamy cheese and sweet figs, all wrapped up in crunchy phyllo pastry. They’re perfect for a snack or party appetizer!
I love how easy these bites are to make! Just fill the cups, bake them, and watch everyone enjoy. They disappear faster than you can say “yummy!” 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This thin pastry is key for that crispy texture. If you can’t find phyllo, try using puff pastry for a different, but still delicious, mouthfeel.
Brie Cheese: Brie gives that creamy and mild flavor. If you want a stronger taste, go for Camembert. For a non-dairy option, a cashew or almond cheese could work well.
Fig Preserves: These sweet spreads add a nice contrast. If figs aren’t available, go for other fruit spreads like apricot or raspberry for a twist!
Nuts: I love topping with walnuts for added crunch! If you’re nut-free, you can skip them or use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds instead.
How Do I Layer Phyllo Dough Perfectly?
Layering phyllo may seem tricky, but it’s all about patience and butter! Each layer adds crispness and structure. First, ensure the phyllo is kept covered with a damp towel while working to prevent it from drying out.
- Brush one layer lightly with melted butter, then place it in the muffin cup.
- Add 2-3 layers, slightly offsetting them to create a cup shape. Make sure to butter each layer as you go.
- Don’t worry if it isn’t perfect; those rustic edges will crisp up beautifully!
Brie And Fig Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 sheets phyllo dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup fig preserves or fig jam
- Fresh figs, halved or quartered (optional, for garnish)
- Chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake, making for a total time of around 30 minutes. You’ll have these tasty bites ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your phyllo cups bake evenly and become crispy.
2. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Grab a mini muffin tin and brush each cup with melted butter. This will help the phyllo dough get nice and crispy as it bakes.
3. Layering the Phyllo Dough:
Take one sheet of phyllo dough and brush it lightly with melted butter. Gently place it in a muffin cup. Repeat this process with 2-3 more sheets, layering them and buttering each one, ensuring that the edges stick out to form a lovely cup shape. Don’t worry about being perfect; a little rustic charm is charming!
4. Filling the Cups:
Once all muffin cups are lined with phyllo, it’s time to fill them. Add small pieces of Brie cheese—about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons per cup. It’s fine if they overflow a little, that just makes it extra cheesy!
5. Adding the Fig Preserves:
Now, add a small dollop (about 1 teaspoon) of fig preserves on top of the Brie in each cup. This sweet touch makes the flavors pop!
6. Baking the Cups:
Place the filled phyllo cups in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the phyllo is golden and crisp, and the cheese is all melty.
7. Cooling and Serving:
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly in the tin before transferring them to a serving platter. They’re best warm or at room temperature!
8. Optional Garnishes:
If you like, garnish your phyllo cups with fresh fig slices and chopped nuts for an extra touch. This makes them not only tastier but also a beautiful presentation!
Enjoy these delicious, crispy, gooey treats! They’re sure to impress your friends and family! 😊
Can I Use Different Cheese Instead of Brie?
Absolutely! While Brie is delicious due to its creaminess, you can substitute it with Camembert for a stronger flavor or even goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that the texture will vary slightly.
Can I Prepare These Phyllo Cups in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the phyllo cups a few hours ahead of time, just don’t fill them until you’re ready to bake. Keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent the phyllo from drying out.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
What Should I Serve With These Phyllo Cups?
These delightful cups are great on their own, but you can serve them with a side of fresh salad or a cheese platter for a more complete appetizer spread. They pair nicely with a glass of wine too!
