Brie and Bacon Phyllo Cups are little bites of heaven! With crispy phyllo dough holding creamy brie and crispy bacon, each cup is bursting with flavor.
These are perfect for parties or just a fun snack. I love how they bake up quickly. Just be careful, they disappear fast! Who can resist bacon and cheese? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This delicate pastry is a must for those crunchy cups. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pastry shells or even crisp tortilla cups as a substitute. But nothing beats the lightness of phyllo!
Brie Cheese: The creamy texture of brie is perfect here. If you’re looking for a substitute due to dietary restrictions, try goat cheese or cream cheese for a different but delightful flavor.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra crunch. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms can work well. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Caramelized Onions: You can replace these with store-bought onion jam or even finely chopped roasted red peppers for a different twist. Both add a nice touch.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Phyllo Cups?
Getting the phyllo just right can be a little tricky, but it’s worth it! To achieve those crispy, golden cups:
- Make sure your phyllo is thawed properly; otherwise, it can tear easily.
- Always brush each layer with melted butter; this creates a nice crunch. Use a light hand to avoid soggy cups!
- Don’t crowd the mini muffin tin; each cup needs space to crisp up properly in the oven.
- Keep an eye on them while baking. Once you see the edges turning golden brown, they’re ready!
Trust me, with these tips, your phyllo cups will turn out delightful every time!
Brie And Bacon Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cups:
- 1 package phyllo dough (thawed if frozen)
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 8 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see instructions below for how to make)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- Optional: honey or jam for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to bake, making the total time around 35 minutes. They are quick to make and are sure to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin. This will help your cups bake evenly and release easily after cooking.
2. Assemble the Phyllo Cups:
Carefully separate the phyllo dough sheets. Take one sheet and brush it lightly with melted butter. Layer three sheets for each cup, brushing each one with butter as you go. Be gentle as you place the sheets into the mini muffin cups, pushing them down to create a nice cup shape.
3. Add the Delicious Filling:
Now, place a small piece of brie at the bottom of each phyllo cup. On top of the brie, add some of the chopped cooked bacon. Then, finish it off with a teaspoon of caramelized onions atop the bacon—yummy!
4. Bake to Perfection:
Put the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the phyllo is golden and crisp, and the brie has melted nicely.
5. Cool and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the cups cool slightly. This will make them easier to handle. Garnish each cup with a small sprig of fresh thyme for a touch of color and flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Optionally, drizzle a little honey or jam on top for a hint of sweetness. Serve the cups warm and enjoy every delicious bite!
Caramelized Onions Preparation:
To caramelize the onions, thinly slice one medium onion. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over low heat. Add the onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally for about 20-25 minutes until they become golden brown and sweet. Season lightly with salt before removing them from heat and letting them cool.
These Brie and Bacon Phyllo Cups aren’t just tasty—they’re also a wonderful mix of textures and flavors that will keep you and your guests coming back for more!
Can I Use Store-Bought Caramelized Onions?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought caramelized onions are a great time-saver. Just be sure to warm them up a bit before adding them to your phyllo cups for the best flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’d like a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Both add great flavor without the meat, and you can season them for extra taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Phyllo Cups?
Any leftover phyllo cups can be stored 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 5-10 minutes to crisp them back up.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the phyllo cups and filling a few hours in advance. Just assemble them right before baking to keep the phyllo crisp. Alternatively, you can freeze unbaked cups and bake them directly from the freezer for a quick appetizer later on!
