Description
Crispy, creamy, glossy, and perfectly festive! These elegant little bites bring together tangy cranberry, rich cream cheese, buttery phyllo, and crunchy pecans for the ultimate holiday appetizer.
Each cup is a mini explosion of flavor wrapped in golden, flaky perfection.
Ingredients:
For the Phyllo Cups:
8–10 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Nonstick spray (optional)
For the Creamy Filling:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon orange zest
Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
1/2 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce or cranberry pepper jelly
1/2 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted
Fresh parsley leaves
Minced chives
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin pan. (
1 minute)
Lay one phyllo sheet flat, brush with melted butter, add another sheet, and repeat to create 3–4-layer stacks. (
3 minutes)
Cut stacked sheets into 3.5–4-inch squares and press each into the muffin tin to form cups. (
3 minutes)
Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp. Let cool slightly. (
10 minutes)
Beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in sour cream, honey, orange zest, and salt until creamy. (
2 minutes)
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling into each phyllo cup and bake again for 7–9 minutes until lightly golden. (
9 minutes)
Warm cranberry sauce or jelly until glossy, then spoon a teaspoon over each cup. (
2 minutes)
Add toasted pecans, then garnish with parsley and chives for a festive finish.
(
1 minute)
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 19 minutes | Total Time: 29 minutes
Kcal: 160 kcal | Servings: 12–15 cups
#HolidayAppetizers #FestiveBites #CranberryMagic #PartyFavorites
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect phyllo cups every time. First, ensure your phyllo dough is fully thawed in the refrigerator overnight. Keep the sheets covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying. When brushing with butter, use a light, even touch—too much butter can make the cups soggy. When pressing squares into the muffin tin, ensure the corners are gently tucked to form a neat cup shape. For the filling, ensure the cream cheese is at true room temperature for a lump-free mixture. The second bake is crucial; it should set the filling but not brown it excessively.
Serving Suggestions
These elegant cups are best served warm or at room temperature. Arrange them on a tiered stand or a simple platter lined with fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive touch. Pair with a crisp sparkling wine or a non-alcoholic cranberry spritzer. For a larger spread, serve alongside other finger foods like baked brie, spiced nuts, and a charcuterie board.
How-to Summary
In summary: Thaw phyllo. Layer 3-4 sheets with butter, cut into squares, and form cups in a greased muffin tin. Bake until golden. Mix softened cream cheese with sour cream, honey, orange zest, and salt. Fill cups and bake again briefly. Top with warm cranberry sauce, toasted pecans, and fresh herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the unfilled phyllo cups up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Fill and do the second bake just before serving for optimal texture.
What can I use instead of cranberry sauce? Fig jam, orange marmalade, or a savory option like caramelized onion chutney work beautifully for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent my phyllo from tearing? Work quickly, keep it covered, and don’t worry about minor tears—they will be hidden once layered and baked.
Can I use frozen cranberries? For the topping, it’s best to use a prepared sauce or jelly for consistency. For a homemade version, simmer fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar and a splash of orange juice until thickened.
Are there nut-free alternatives? Absolutely. Omit the pecans or replace them with toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for a similar crunch without tree nuts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese: This leads to a lumpy filling. Let it soften fully.
- Over-brushing with butter: This weighs down the delicate phyllo layers.
- Over-baking the filled cups: This can cause the filling to crack. Bake just until set.
- Adding the cranberry topping before the second bake: The jelly will burn. Always add it after the final bake.
- Not toasting the pecans: Toasting is essential to unlock their flavor and crunch.
Conclusion
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups are the quintessential holiday appetizer, masterfully balancing sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements in one elegant bite. By following this enhanced guide, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and create a stunning, crowd-pleasing treat. Their make-ahead potential and versatile flavor profile make them a reliable star for any festive gathering. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!