These cranberry pecan baked brie cups are a tasty treat! Creamy brie cheese is wrapped in flaky pastry, topped with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans. Perfect for any gathering!
It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds! I love serving these at parties—they disappear quickly. Plus, they’re super easy to make. Just pop ‘em in the oven and enjoy the yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: This creamy cheese is the star of the dish. If you can’t find Brie, try Camembert for a similar texture and flavor. You can even use goat cheese for a tangy twist!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a tart punch, but you can also rely on dried ones, especially if you soak them first to soften. Alternatively, consider using chopped cherries or apricots for a different flavor.
Pecan Halves: These nuts add a delightful crunch! If you’re allergic, walnuts or almonds work well. For a nut-free option, try sunflower seeds for a similar texture.
Phyllo Dough: Phyllo dough creates a light and crispy shell. If you’re short on time, mini pre-made pastry cups can save you effort. Alternatively, crescent roll dough or pie crust can work too!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Either sweetener adds the perfect touch of sweetness. You could substitute agave syrup or brown sugar if you want to change things up a bit.
How Do I Handle Phyllo Dough Without It Falling Apart?
Phyllo dough can be tricky since it’s super thin and delicate. Here are some tips to manage it easily:
- Keep the phyllo covered with a damp cloth while working with it. This prevents it from drying out too quickly.
- Use melted butter to brush layers, which helps the sheets stick together. Layering between 2-3 sheets gives good sturdiness.
- When cutting into squares, don’t worry about making them perfect—aim for a size that comfortably fits in your muffin tin.
Taking these steps will help you create a beautiful and sturdy base for your tasty Brie cups!
Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cups:
- 1 (8 oz) wheel of Brie cheese
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries (if using dried, soak in warm water for 10 minutes)
- 1/2 cup pecan halves
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 6-8 sheets phyllo dough (or use mini pre-made phyllo shells)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 10-12 minutes to bake. All together, you’re looking at just under half an hour to create a delicious treat that’s perfect for parties or cozy nights at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a mini muffin tin and lightly grease it to ensure the cups don’t stick when you bake them.
2. Prepare the Phyllo Dough:
Take one sheet of phyllo dough and place it on your work surface. Brush it lightly with the melted butter. Layer an additional 2-3 sheets, brushing melted butter in between each layer. This will give your cups a nice, flaky texture!
3. Form the Cups:
Cut the layered phyllo dough into squares that are big enough to fit into the mini muffin tin. Gently press each square into the cups, molding them into little cups that will hold all the delicious filling.
4. Add the Brie:
Next, cut the Brie cheese into small cubes or slices. Place a piece of Brie into each phyllo cup, allowing the creamy cheese to be the star of the show!
5. Top with Cranberries:
Add a few cranberries on top of the Brie in each cup. This step adds a burst of color and flavor!
6. Sweeten It Up:
Drizzle a tiny bit of honey or maple syrup over each cup for that sweet touch that complements the cheese perfectly.
7. Sprinkle on the Pecans:
Generously sprinkle the pecan halves over the top of each cup. They will add a delightful crunch to each bite.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the muffin tin into the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the phyllo is golden and the cheese is melted.
9. Cool and Remove:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Be careful when removing them from the tin; they can be a bit hot!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a beautiful presentation if you like, and serve warm. These little cups are a delightful mix of creamy, sweet, tart, and crunchy. Enjoy your elegant and delicious appetizer!
Can I Use Different Cheese Instead of Brie?
Absolutely! While Brie is a classic choice, you can substitute it with Camembert for a similar flavor, or use goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may melt differently, so adjust baking times if needed.
How Can I Make These Vegan?
To make a vegan version, opt for a vegan cheese that melts well, and replace the honey with maple syrup or agave syrup. Additionally, use coconut oil instead of butter for brushing the phyllo dough.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the cups up to a day in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
