These Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie Cups are a delightful treat! Creamy brie cheese melts perfectly inside crispy pastry cups, topped with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans.
They’re quick to whip up and make any gathering feel fancy. I love serving them warm right out of the oven. You can’t help but smile when you see everyone enjoying these little bites! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This flaky dough gives a light and crispy texture. If phyllo isn’t available, try using pre-made pastry shells or even puff pastry, just remember to adjust the baking time!
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creaminess, but you could swap it for camembert or a soft goat cheese for a different flavor. Just keep the texture in mind; you’ll want something that melts well.
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade or store-bought is fine! If you prefer a less sweet option, make a cranberry relish with fresh cranberries and a dash of citrus. It’s tangy but complements the cheese nicely.
Pecans: Walnuts or almonds can easily replace pecans if you have allergies or preferences. Just chop them roughly for the same delicious crunch!
How Do I Properly Layer and Handle Phyllo Dough?
Working with phyllo can seem tricky, but with a little care, it’s simple! Here are some straightforward tips:
- Keep the phyllo dough covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out while you’re working.
- Layer three sheets for a sturdier base. This way, they hold the filling without breaking apart.
- Brush melted butter between layers to give the cups that golden, flaky texture when baked.
With these tips, you’ll be able to create beautiful and tasty baked brie cups that are sure to impress anyone at your holiday gatherings! Enjoy making them! 🎉
Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cups:
- 6 sheets of phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing phyllo)
For the Filling:
- 8 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or chunky)
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for nuts)
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake, making it a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. These delightful cups are quick to make and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a standard muffin tin to help the pastry cups release easily after baking.
2. Layer the Phyllo Dough:
Take one sheet of phyllo dough and lay it flat on a clean working surface. With a brush, lightly coat it with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and brush again with butter. Repeat this process until you have three layers stacked. This will help create a flaky texture.
3. Cut and Form the Cups:
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the stacked phyllo into 6 squares that are large enough to fit into the muffin tin cups. Carefully place each square into a cup, gently pressing it down and up the sides to create a little shell.
4. Add the Filling:
Now it’s time to fill your cups! Place a small piece of brie cheese into each phyllo shell. Then, spoon about 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce over the brie, making sure to cover it well.
5. Top with Pecans:
In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans with the brown sugar (if you’re using it). Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of this mixture on top of the cranberry sauce in each cup for a sweet and crunchy finish.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the phyllo is golden brown and the brie is all melty. Keep an eye on them so they don’t over-brown!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re baked, remove the tin from the oven and let the cups cool for about 5 minutes. If you like, add a sprig of fresh thyme on top for a touch of color and flavor before serving.
These Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie Cups are sure to be a hit at your gathering! Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, nutty, and cheesy flavors that everyone will love! 🎉
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry sauce saves time and can taste delicious. Just pick one you enjoy, whether whole berry or chunky. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference!
How Should I Store Leftover Baked Brie Cups?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This helps keep the phyllo crispy!
Can I Make the Cups Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the phyllo cups and fill them with the brie and cranberry sauce in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold!
What If I Don’t Have Phyllo Dough?
If you don’t have phyllo dough, you can use pre-made pastry shells or puff pastry instead. Just follow the package instructions for baking times and temperatures. Puff pastry may need a slight adjustment in baking time!
