Cranberry Walnut Brie Phyllo Cups -

Delight in the holiday spirit or any festive gathering with these scrumptious Cranberry Walnut Brie Phyllo Cups. Combining the creamy richness of brie cheese, the tartness of cranberry sauce, and the crunch of walnuts, these bite-sized treats are incredibly easy to prepare and are sure to impress your guests.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Walnut Brie Phyllo Cups recipe is not only incredibly quick, taking just 22 minutes from start to finish, but it also bursts with flavors that meld beautifully. The richness of the brie pairs exquisitely with the sweet and tart cranberry sauce, while the walnuts add a lovely crunch and depth. These phyllo cups are perfect as appetizers for holiday parties or any festive occasions, ensuring that you leave your guests wanting more.

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Walnut Brie Phyllo Cups

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh brie and high-quality cranberry sauce, as they can significantly enhance the overall flavor.

Watch the Baking Time: Ensure you keep an eye on the phyllo cups while they bake. They can quickly go from perfectly golden brown to burnt.
Garnish for Presentation: Adding fresh thyme leaves as a garnish can elevate the dish’s presentation and add a hint of freshness.
Make Ahead: You can prepare these cups in advance and store them uncooked in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.

Variations: Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different twist, or try adding a drizzle of honey before serving for added sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious Cranberry Walnut Brie Phyllo Cups:

1 package (15 count) mini phyllo shells

4 oz brie cheese, cut into small cubes
1/3 cup whole cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Cranberry Walnut Brie Phyllo Cups:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Place the mini phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
Step 3: Add a cube of brie to each shell.
Step 4: Top each brie-filled shell with about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce.

Step 5: Sprinkle chopped walnuts evenly over the cranberry sauce.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the brie is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Step 8: Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make these phyllo cups in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the phyllo cups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them right before serving.

2. What can I substitute for brie cheese?

If you don’t have brie on hand, Camembert cheese is a great alternative with a similar texture and flavor profile.

3. Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work wonderfully in this recipe, giving a slightly different taste and texture.

4. How should I store leftovers?

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

5. Can I freeze these phyllo cups?

While it’s not recommended to freeze them after baking, you can freeze the prepared but uncooked cups. Just bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Cranberry Walnut Brie Phyllo Cups are an easy-to-make and delicious appetizer that perfectly balances flavors and textures. With minimal preparation time and ingredients, you can impress your guests and bring festive cheer to your gatherings. Be sure to enjoy these warm, and watch them disappear!