Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups Recipe

There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of creamy brie, tart cranberries, and the crisp, flaky texture of golden phyllo pastry. These Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups are a show-stopping appetizer that perfectly blends sweet and savory flavors into one irresistible bite. Whether you’re hosting a Friendsgiving gathering, a cozy winter dinner, or simply want an elegant snack for a movie night, these little cups bring warmth, flavor, and sophistication to the table.

The inspiration behind this recipe comes from traditional holiday cheese platters, where creamy brie and cranberry sauce often sit side by side. By wrapping these festive ingredients in crisp phyllo dough, we’ve transformed a simple pairing into an impressive bite-sized appetizer that’s both beautiful and easy to serve. Perfect for busy hosts and food lovers alike, these phyllo cups promise to make any occasion feel a little more special.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant yet effortless – These bite-sized appetizers look gourmet but are surprisingly easy to make.

• Perfect balance of flavors – Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet all at once.

• Make-ahead friendly – You can assemble the cups in advance and bake right before serving.

• Crowd-pleaser – Everyone loves the combination of brie and cranberry, making this a guaranteed hit for any holiday table.

• Customizable – Easily adapt with your favorite jams, nuts, or herbs for endless variations.

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Ingredients

For the Phyllo Cups

• 1 package (15 sheets) of phyllo dough, thawed

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or use olive oil spray for a lighter version)

For the Filling

• 8 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small cubes

• ¾ cup whole cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• 2 tablespoons honey

• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

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Directions

1. Prepare the Phyllo Sheets

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.

2. Unroll the thawed phyllo dough and cover it with a slightly damp kitchen towel to prevent drying.

3. Place one sheet of phyllo on a clean surface, brush lightly with melted butter, and layer another sheet on top. Repeat this process until you have 5 buttered layers.

4. Cut the stacked sheets into 3-inch squares using a sharp knife. Gently press each square into a mini muffin cup, shaping them into small cups.

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2. Fill the Cups

5. Place a small cube of brie cheese in each phyllo cup.

6. Top with about ½ teaspoon of cranberry sauce and a light drizzle of honey.

7. Sprinkle a few chopped nuts on top for added texture, if desired.

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3. Bake Until Golden and Melty

8. Bake the filled cups in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the phyllo is crisp and golden brown and the brie has melted.

9. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 3–5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter.

10. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or a small drizzle of extra honey for a glossy finish.

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Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 27 minutes

• Yield: 24 mini phyllo cups

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Notes

• Phyllo Handling Tip: Phyllo sheets dry out quickly, so always keep them covered with a damp towel as you work.

• Cheese Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of brie, try using cream cheese, camembert, or even goat cheese for a tangier flavor.

• Sweet Alternatives: Swap cranberry sauce for raspberry, cherry, or apricot preserves for a twist.

• Storage: These phyllo cups taste best fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 hours. To reheat, place them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes until crisp.

• Freezer Option: Assemble and freeze unbaked cups in a tray, then bake directly from frozen when needed, adding 3–4 minutes to the baking time.

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The Magic Behind Cranberry and Brie

The harmony between brie cheese and cranberries is what makes this appetizer truly special. Brie brings a luxurious creaminess that balances the tart, fruity brightness of the cranberries. When baked together, the cheese softens and mingles with the sweet-tart sauce, creating a flavor experience that feels both festive and comforting.

This combination has long been a staple in winter entertaining — especially around Thanksgiving and Christmas — where cranberry sauce often finds its way to the table alongside rich cheeses. The buttery crunch of the phyllo adds the final touch, making each bite perfectly layered in texture and taste.

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How to Make Homemade Cranberry Sauce (Optional)

If you’d like to make your cranberry sauce from scratch, here’s a simple recipe that’s ready in just 15 minutes:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

• ¼ cup orange juice or apple juice

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, juice, and sugar.

2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

3. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.

4. Remove from heat, stir in orange zest, and let it cool before using.

Homemade cranberry sauce adds a vibrant, fresh touch to your phyllo cups and lets you control the sweetness to your preference.

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Variations to Try

1. Cranberry Brie Cups with Nuts and Herbs

Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts and fresh thyme or rosemary before baking. This version offers a nutty, aromatic layer that complements the creamy brie perfectly.

2. Apple Brie Phyllo Cups

Replace cranberry sauce with diced sautéed apples tossed in a bit of cinnamon and honey. It’s a cozy, fall-inspired twist that pairs beautifully with the buttery pastry.

3. Savory Brie and Fig Phyllo Cups

Use fig jam instead of cranberry sauce and add a tiny sprinkle of cracked black pepper. This version has a more sophisticated flavor, perfect for elegant dinner parties.

4. Cranberry Brie and Almond Cups

Add a light drizzle of honey and top with sliced almonds before baking for an added crunch and sweetness.

5. Brie and Caramelized Onion Phyllo Cups

For a more savory version, swap cranberry sauce for caramelized onions and add a small pinch of thyme. This creates a deep, umami flavor perfect for appetizer boards.

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Expert Tips for Perfect Phyllo Cups

• Work quickly: Phyllo sheets dry out fast, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready.

• Use a pastry brush: A light, even coat of butter helps create that crisp, golden texture without making the pastry greasy.

• Don’t overfill: A small cube of brie and half a teaspoon of sauce is enough — the filling will expand slightly as it bakes.

• Serve warm: These cups taste best straight from the oven when the brie is melted and gooey.

• Re-crisping tip: If you make them ahead, place them back in the oven for 5 minutes before serving to refresh the crunch.

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Perfect for Every Occasion

Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups are more than just appetizers — they’re conversation starters. Here’s why they fit any event effortlessly:

• Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving: Their cranberry-brie combo ties perfectly into the holiday flavors everyone loves.

• Christmas gatherings: They look festive with their red-and-white color palette.

• Baby showers or bridal brunches: Mini, elegant, and mess-free — ideal for finger food spreads.

• Casual get-togethers: These can be made ahead and served warm or at room temperature.

• Afternoon tea: Their delicate crispness pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or hot cider.

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Pairing Ideas

While these cups shine on their own, they also pair wonderfully with other small bites:

• Fresh fruit platters – Grapes, apples, and pear slices balance the richness of the brie.

• Vegetable crudités – Add freshness and crunch to your appetizer spread.

• Savory dips – Pair with a roasted red pepper dip or creamy hummus for contrast.

• Cheese board companions – Add these cups to a platter with cheddar, gouda, nuts, and dried fruits for variety.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

To make ahead:

• Prepare the phyllo cups and assemble with cheese and cranberry sauce.

• Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

• Bake just before serving for best results.

To store leftovers:

• Place cooled cups in an airtight container.

• Keep at room temperature for up to 6 hours or refrigerate for 1–2 days.

• To reheat, bake at 300°F for 5–7 minutes until crisp and warm again.

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Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Approximate values per cup:

• Calories: 90

• Protein: 2g

• Fat: 6g

• Carbohydrates: 7g

• Fiber: 0.5g

• Sugar: 3g

These little bites are indulgent yet light enough to enjoy without guilt, making them a perfect addition to your festive spread.

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Serving Presentation Ideas

Want to make your Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups look extra stunning? Try these serving tips:

• Garnish with herbs: A small sprig of thyme or rosemary instantly elevates the presentation.

• Use a wooden serving board: The rustic look contrasts beautifully with the elegant cups.

• Add a drizzle: Lightly drizzle honey or balsamic glaze over the cups for a glossy finish.

• Serve warm: Arrange them on a heated platter to keep them melty for longer during parties.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Phyllo tearing? Don’t worry! Patch small tears by brushing with melted butter and layering another piece on top.

• Cheese leaking out? Slight overflow is normal, but using small brie cubes helps prevent messes.

• Soggy bottoms? Bake the phyllo shells for 3 minutes before filling to crisp them up if desired.

• Too sweet or too tart? Adjust your cranberry sauce by mixing in honey or a pinch of sugar before baking.

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Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this recipe lies in the balance of flavor, texture, and simplicity. The buttery, crisp phyllo provides the perfect vessel for melty brie and bright cranberry, while the honey adds a natural sweetness that ties everything together. Each bite offers crunch, creaminess, and tang — an elegant trifecta that feels festive but not fussy.

These Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups turn simple ingredients into something memorable. Whether you serve them at a large gathering or a quiet dinner for two, they bring joy and comfort with every bite.

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FAQs

1. Can I use puff pastry instead of phyllo dough?

Yes, you can substitute puff pastry for a richer, softer bite. The texture will be flakier and more buttery, but still delicious. Just cut small circles and press them into the muffin tin before filling.

2. What’s the best way to prevent phyllo from drying out?

Keep unused sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel at all times. Work quickly and handle gently to avoid cracks or tears.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Replace brie with a plant-based cheese alternative and brush the phyllo with olive oil instead of butter.

4. How far in advance can I prepare these cups?

You can assemble the unbaked cups up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving for that perfect crispness.

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