Mini Phyllo Cups with Brie, Pecans & Cranberry Drizzle Recipe
If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s both elegant and irresistibly tasty, Mini Phyllo Cups with Brie, Pecans & Cranberry Drizzle are your new best friend. These delicate little bites combine the flaky crunch of phyllo shells, the creamy richness of Brie cheese, the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, and a vibrant, tangy cranberry drizzle that brings everything to life. They’re perfect for holiday parties, cozy gatherings, or just whenever you want to impress your friends with something simple yet extraordinary. Trust me, once you try these mini delights, they’ll become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make Mini Phyllo Cups with Brie, Pecans & Cranberry Drizzle is pleasantly straightforward. Each ingredient plays a crucial role — from the buttery crispness of phyllo shells to the perfectly balanced sweet and tangy cranberry drizzle that ties it all together.
- Mini phyllo shells (24): These store-bought shells save time and provide a light, flaky base that crisps beautifully when baked.
- Brie cheese (200 g / 7 oz): Cut into small cubes for easy melting and a rich, creamy texture inside each cup.
- Chopped pecans (50 g / 1.75 oz): Toasted to unlock their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch contrast.
- Honey (2 tbsp / 30 ml): Adds a subtle sweetness that complements both the cheese and nuts perfectly.
- Cranberry sauce (100 g / 3.5 oz): Store-bought or homemade, it brings a bright, tart element to the drizzle.
- Orange zest (1 tsp): For a hint of citrus freshness that lifts the cranberry sauce.
- Balsamic vinegar (1 tsp): Adds complexity and a gentle tang to the cranberry drizzle.
- Optional fresh thyme leaves: For an aromatic, herbaceous garnish that pairs wonderfully with the other flavors.
- Optional whole pecans: To top the cups, adding an attractive visual and extra crunch.
How to Make Mini Phyllo Cups with Brie, Pecans & Cranberry Drizzle
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 180°C (350°F). This temperature is key to warming through the filling while crisping the phyllo shells without burning them. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, and arrange your mini phyllo shells neatly on it.
Step 2: Fill the Phyllo Shells
Place a small cube of creamy Brie cheese into each phyllo cup. Don’t be shy here — the cheese is the star of the show! Next, sprinkle the toasted chopped pecans generously on top to add that unbeatable crunch. The layers of textures start coming together already and your kitchen is going to smell fantastic.
Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Melty
Pop your tray of filled phyllo cups into the oven. Bake them for about 8 to 10 minutes—just enough time for the Brie to soften and melt gently and the phyllo to achieve a lovely golden hue. Keep an eye on them so none get too dark; you want that perfect crisp but not burnt.
Step 4: Make the Cranberry Drizzle
While the cups bake, warm up your cranberry drizzle. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the cranberry sauce, orange zest, and balsamic vinegar. Stir gently until everything is smooth and slightly warmed, then remove from heat. This sauce adds a burst of festive flavor and a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the Brie and nuts.
Step 5: Assemble and Garnish
Once your phyllo cups come out of the oven, give them a minute or two to cool slightly—just enough to hold without losing warmth. Now, drizzle the warm cranberry sauce generously over each cup. If you want to take things up a notch, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves and place a whole pecan on top of every cup for an elegant finishing touch.
How to Serve Mini Phyllo Cups with Brie, Pecans & Cranberry Drizzle
Garnishes
Fresh thyme isn’t just pretty—it adds an earthy counterpoint that complements the creamy Brie and sweet-tart drizzle beautifully. If you prefer a sweeter note, a light drizzle of honey over the finished cups adds a glossy, golden shine and extra flavor dimension. A few microgreens or a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans also make impressive garnishes.
Side Dishes
Serve these Mini Phyllo Cups with Brie, Pecans & Cranberry Drizzle alongside a crisp green salad or a platter of cured meats and olives to create a well-rounded appetizer spread. They also pair wonderfully with light white wines or sparkling wines, which help refresh the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun. Arrange the mini cups on a rustic wooden board or elegant tiered stand to impress your guests visually. For a festive touch, scatter fresh cranberries or sprigs of rosemary around your serving tray. For parties, consider placing each cup in a decorative cupcake liner to make them even easier to pick up without losing any filling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the mini phyllo cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the cranberry drizzle separate in a small jar or container to prevent the phyllo shells from getting soggy. They’ll stay tasty for up to 2 days, making them ideal for prepping ahead.
Freezing
While you can freeze the assembled cups before baking, it’s best to freeze just the unfilled phyllo shells and the ingredients separately. Once thawed, assemble fresh and bake as usual. This way, you preserve the crispness of the phyllo and the freshness of the Brie.
Reheating
To reheat stored mini phyllo cups, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and the phyllo crisp again. Reheat the cranberry drizzle gently on the stove or in the microwave before drizzling on top. This brings back all the vibrant flavors as if freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work wonderfully in this recipe and offer a slightly different texture and flavor that still pairs well with Brie and cranberry.
Is it possible to make the cranberry sauce from scratch?
Yes! For a homemade cranberry sauce, simmer fresh cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and a pinch of cinnamon until thickened. This adds a personal touch and lets you adjust the sweetness and tartness exactly how you like it.
What if I don’t have mini phyllo shells?
You can carefully cut store-bought phyllo dough into small squares and form them into cups using a mini muffin tin. Just brush with butter for that golden crisp finish after baking.
Can this appetizer be served at room temperature?
It can, but it’s best enjoyed warm when the Brie is melty and the phyllo still crisp. If serving at room temperature, reheat briefly to restore texture and flavor.
How long do Mini Phyllo Cups with Brie, Pecans & Cranberry Drizzle keep after baking?
For the best texture and taste, consume within the same day if possible. Stored properly in the fridge and reheated, they remain delightful for up to 2 days.
Final Thoughts
Mini Phyllo Cups with Brie, Pecans & Cranberry Drizzle combine elegance, flavor, and ease in one irresistible bite. Whether you’re hosting a festive event or just want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Give it a try—you might just find your next favorite appetizer that everyone will be asking for again and again!
