Get ready for a tasty treat with these Brie and Fig Phyllo Cups! The crispy phyllo dough holds creamy Brie cheese and sweet fig jam, making a perfect pair.
These little bites are super easy to make and always impress friends at parties. I love serving them warm, and I can’t resist sneaking a few before guests arrive! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This is essential for that crispy texture. If you don’t have phyllo, you can use puff pastry. Just roll it out thinner and cut it into squares.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creaminess, but Camembert is a great substitute if you want a stronger flavor. Goat cheese can also work for a tangier twist.
Fig Jam: Fig jam is sweet and pairs wonderfully with Brie. If you can’t find fig jam, use apricot or peach preserves instead for a different yet delicious flavor.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch, but you can skip them or swap for almonds if preferred. Toasting them beforehand brings out more flavor.
Fresh Thyme: This garnish adds a nice herbal note. If you don’t have fresh thyme, oregano or rosemary can work in a pinch. You could even go without it!
How to Handle Phyllo Dough Without Stress?
Phyllo dough can be tricky to work with since it’s thin and dry. Here are some tips to handle it easily:
- Keep the phyllo dough covered with a damp towel while you work to prevent it from drying out.
- Work quickly but carefully when stacking and brushing with butter to keep it from tearing.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the stacked sheets into squares for uniform cups. This makes assembly simpler!
Take your time, and don’t worry if a piece rips. Just patch it up in the muffin tin; it’ll still taste great!
Brie And Fig Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package phyllo dough (about 12 sheets)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup fig jam or fig preserves
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh figs, halved (optional for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and another 12-15 minutes to bake. You can have these delicious little appetizers ready in under 40 minutes—perfect for when friends come over or for a festive gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be hot and ready when you pop the phyllo cups in. Don’t forget to lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking!
2. Prepare the Phyllo Cups:
Take out a sheet of phyllo dough and lay it flat on a clean work surface. Brush it lightly with the melted butter using a pastry brush. Then, place another sheet on top of it and brush again. Repeat this layering process 4-5 times to make the cups nice and crispy. Once that’s done, cut the stacked phyllo into squares about 3×3 inches.
3. Form the Phyllo Cups:
Gently press each square of phyllo dough into the muffin tin to create little cups. Don’t worry if they tear a bit; they’ll still look good once they’re baked!
4. Add the Cheese and Jam:
Now it’s time to fill each cup! Place a small piece of Brie cheese in the bottom of each phyllo cup. Then spoon about 1 teaspoon of fig jam on top of the Brie. This combination is what makes these cups so special!
5. Sprinkle with Nuts (Optional):
If you’re using them, sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the jam for a lovely crunch.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the phyllo is golden brown and the cheese melts—your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully take the phyllo cups out of the tin and let them cool slightly. If you like, garnish them with fresh thyme leaves before serving. These bite-sized appetizers are best enjoyed warm, and you can even offer fresh fig halves on the side for an extra touch.
Enjoy these elegant, sweet, and savory bite-sized appetizers perfect for entertaining! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Phyllo Dough for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the phyllo dough in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, handle it gently and cover with a damp towel while you work to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make These Phyllo Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filled phyllo cups a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. Just bake them right before serving for the best crispy texture. They’re delicious warm!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the fig jam with other preserves like raspberry or apricot, and try different cheeses such as goat cheese or sharp cheddar for a unique flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can also add a nice touch!