These Brie and Fig Phyllo Cups are a tasty snack that pops with flavor! Crispy phyllo pastry hugs gooey Brie cheese and sweet figs, creating a perfect combo.
They’re super easy to make—just fill, bake, and enjoy! I love serving these at parties because everyone always asks for seconds. Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 🧀🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This flaky pastry is key for that crispy texture. If you’re unable to find phyllo, you can use puff pastry, but the texture will be a bit different. Just make sure to bake it until golden brown!
Brie Cheese: I love using Brie because it melts beautifully. If you can’t find Brie, camembert is a great alternative—or even a creamy goat cheese for a tangy twist!
Fig Preserves: Fig preserves add a sweet depth. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using a fruit spread or even a simple fruit chutney. Apricot preserves also work well!
Goat or Feta Cheese: These cheeses are optional but add a nice creaminess. You can substitute with blue cheese for a stronger flavor or skip entirely if you prefer.
How Do I Layer Phyllo Dough Without It Getting Stuck?
Layering phyllo dough can be tricky, but with some tips, it’s easy! Here’s how to handle it:
- Work with one sheet at a time. Keep the other sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
- Brush each layer with butter. This not only helps them stick but also adds flavor.
- Stack three sheets for sturdy cups, but feel free to use more if you want extra crispy layers.
- When cutting, be sure your knife is sharp to avoid tearing the dough.
With these steps, your phyllo cups will turn out perfectly crispy and golden! Enjoy preparing these delectable bites!
Brie and Fig Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cups:
- 6 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 4 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/3 cup fig preserves or fig jam
For Garnishing (Optional):
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- Fresh thyme leaves or chopped fresh herbs
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10-12 minutes for baking, so you can have these delightful bites ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick appetizer before dinner or for a party!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, gently grease a mini muffin tin with a little butter or line it with paper liners to make for easy removal of the cups.
2. Layer the Phyllo Dough:
Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface. With a brush, lightly cover it with melted butter. Take another sheet and place it on top, brushing it with more butter. Repeat this process until you have 3 sheets stacked together. This will give your cups a nice, flaky texture.
3. Cut and Arrange the Phyllo Cups:
Now, cut the stacked phyllo sheets into 12 squares, about 4×4 inches each. Carefully press each square into the muffin tin to form little cups. Repeat this for the remaining phyllo sheets until all the cups are prepared.
4. Fill with Brie:
Take small pieces of Brie cheese (about 1 teaspoon) and fill each phyllo cup. Don’t worry if they look a bit overflowing; they will melt beautifully!
5. Bake the Cups:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy, and the Brie has softened nicely.
6. Add Fig Preserves:
Once baked, remove the cups from the oven and immediately spoon about 1 teaspoon of fig preserves on top of each warm cup. The heat will help it melt just a bit, making it even more delicious!
7. Garnish and Serve:
For an extra touch, sprinkle some crumbled goat cheese or feta over the top, along with fresh thyme or herbs if desired. Serve the cups warm or at room temperature and enjoy!
This recipe yields about 24 delightful phyllo cups that are perfect for entertaining or just treating yourself. Enjoy the harmonious blend of creamy, sweet, and crispy textures in every bite!
Can I Use Different Cheeses for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Brie is wonderful for its creaminess, you can substitute with camembert, cream cheese, or even a tangy goat cheese. Just keep in mind the flavor will change slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover phyllo cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make These Phyllo Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the phyllo cups with the Brie filling in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add the fig preserves right after baking for the best flavor and texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Fig Preserves?
If you don’t have fig preserves, you can use other fruit preserves like apricot, raspberry, or even a savory chutney for a unique twist. Just ensure it complements the cheese well!