These cranberry pecan baked brie cups are like little bites of joy! The creamy brie, paired with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, makes for a delightful appetizer that’s super easy to share.
Honestly, they disappear fast at parties! I love how simple they are—just fill pastry cups, bake, and watch everyone enjoy. Perfect for impressing your friends without much fuss!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: The star of this recipe! If you can’t find brie, camembert or even a mild goat cheese can work well. You want something creamy that melts beautifully.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries add a tart flavor. If they’re not in season, feel free to use dried cranberries. Just be mindful of the sweetness—they’re usually sweeter! You can even swap cranberries with other fruits like chopped apples or pears.
Pecans: Chopped pecans bring a nice crunch. Walnuts or hazelnuts are great substitutes if you prefer or have them on hand. Just toast them lightly for added flavor!
Phyllo Dough: Mini phyllo shells are super convenient, but if you have phyllo sheets, just layer and cut them, as mentioned. You could also use puff pastry for a different texture, but they may take a bit longer to bake.
How Do I Handle Phyllo Dough Without It Drying Out?
Dealing with phyllo dough can be tricky as it dries out quickly. Here’s how to keep it fresh while you work:
- Thaw the phyllo dough in the fridge overnight. Once you’re ready, keep it covered with a damp towel as you work with it.
- Brush melted butter on each layer if you’re using sheets. This helps them stick together and adds a golden finish!
- Work fast! Try to create your cups in one go to reduce exposure to air.
These steps will help you create those flaky, delicious cups that everyone will love!
Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries (if fresh, roughly chopped)
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 package phyllo dough sheets, thawed (about 20 sheets) or mini phyllo shells
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (if using phyllo sheets)
- Optional garnish: fresh rosemary sprigs for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to bake, making a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. Short and sweet, just how we like it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your baked brie cups cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Phyllo Dough:
If you are using phyllo sheets, prepare them by layering about 3 sheets for each cup. Brush each sheet lightly with melted butter to keep them from drying out and to help them stick together. If you have mini phyllo shells, just place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the chopped cranberries and pecans with the maple syrup or honey. Stir until everything is well coated. This mixture will add sweetness and crunch to your brie cups!
4. Assemble the Cups:
Take your prepared phyllo cups and place a slice or small piece of brie cheese into each one. For an extra creamy touch, you can layer a small spoonful of softened cream cheese underneath the brie if you like!
5. Add the Topping:
Spoon the cranberry and pecan mixture generously on top of each piece of brie. Make sure to cover the cheese so it will melt beautifully as it bakes!
6. Bake:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You want the phyllo to turn golden brown and the brie to get gooey and melty.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the cups cool for a couple of minutes. They will be hot! As a finishing touch, you can garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if you want, then serve warm and enjoy!
These delightful cranberry pecan baked brie cups make for a perfect holiday appetizer or party bite. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are delicious, you can easily substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop them up and toast them lightly for extra flavor!
Can I Prepare These Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the cups ahead of time! Assemble them without baking, cover them tightly, and store in the fridge for up to a day. Just pop them in the oven right before serving, adding a minute or two to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked brie cups 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 or until warmed through. Microwaving is possible, but air frying or baking will keep the phyllo crispy.
What’s a Good Serving Suggestion?
These tasty bites are great on their own but pair wonderfully with a fruit platter, some crusty bread, or a light salad for a complete appetizer spread. Enjoy having fun with different dips or sauces on the side too!
