Brie and Fig Phyllo Cups are a tasty bite-sized treat! The flaky phyllo pastry holds creamy brie and sweet fig jam, creating a perfect mix of flavors.
These little cups are great for parties or just because! I love making them ahead of time and baking them right before guests arrive—the aroma is hard to resist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This is what makes your cups flaky and light. If you can’t find phyllo, puff pastry can be a good alternative! Just cut it into squares and follow the same layering steps.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creaminess with a gentle flavor. If you’re looking for a strong cheese, try Camembert instead. Or for a vegan option, there are great plant-based brie alternatives available!
Fig Jam: Fig jam is sweet and pairs beautifully with brie. If figs aren’t your thing, you might use apricot, raspberry, or any fruit preserves you love. Just look for something that adds a sweet and fruity touch!
Nuts: Walnuts and pecans add a nice crunch. If you want to go nut-free, consider sprinkling crispy fried onions or seeds instead; they’ll still bring texture and flavor.
How Do I Work with Phyllo Dough Without It Drying Out?
Phyllo can be tricky since it dries out quickly. The key is to keep it covered! Use a damp kitchen towel while you work to prevent it from becoming brittle. Here’s what to do:
- Only take out one sheet at a time from the package for use.
- Brush it lightly with melted butter to add flavor and keep it moist.
- Stack three sheets together for durability before cutting into squares.
By using these tips, your cups will be flaky and delicious without any fuss!
How to Make Brie And Fig Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 sheets phyllo dough
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 6 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/3 cup fig jam (or fig preserves)
- Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish
- Flaky sea salt for finishing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take you about 20 minutes to prepare and then around 12-15 minutes to bake. Total, you’re looking at about 35-40 minutes from start to finish, giving you a delicious appetizer in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating, lightly grease a mini muffin tin to make sure your cups don’t stick.
2. Making the Phyllo Cups:
Take one sheet of phyllo dough and lay it flat on your clean work surface. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat it with melted butter. Then, place another sheet on top and butter that one too. Repeat this process until you have layered three sheets of phyllo together.
3. Shaping the Cups:
Next, cut your stacked phyllo sheets into squares about 3.5 inches each. Gently press each square into the muffin tin, molding the dough to form little cups. Make sure to do this carefully so they hold their shape!
4. Fill the Cups:
Now, take small pieces of brie cheese and place one at the bottom of each phyllo cup. Top each piece of brie with about a teaspoon of fig jam. If you want to add a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top.
5. Baking Time:
Pop the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden and crispy, and the brie is all melty and delicious.
6. Finishing Touch:
Once baked, remove the cups from the oven and let them cool for just a minute. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over each one for that extra flavor boost.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Carefully take the cups out of the muffin tin and serve them warm or at room temperature. These Brie and Fig Phyllo Cups are perfect as an appetizer or a lovely snack!
Enjoy the creamy, sweet, and crunchy fusion of flavors in every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While brie is traditional, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like Camembert, goat cheese, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Phyllo Cups?
If you have leftovers, store them 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 to crisp them back up before serving.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the phyllo cups and fill them with cheese and jam a few hours in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a great option for parties!
What Can I Substitute for Fig Jam?
If fig jam isn’t your favorite, you can use apricot, raspberry, or even apple butter! Just choose a jam with a similar sweetness that you enjoy; it will still pair wonderfully with the brie.