These Brie and Fig Phyllo Cups are a tasty treat! With crispy phyllo pastry and creamy Brie cheese, they’re perfect for a snack or party appetizer.
Everyone loves the sweet and tangy fig jam paired with the rich Brie. I can’t resist sneaking a few before guests arrive—just don’t tell anyone! 😄
These little cups are super easy to make. Just fill, bake, and watch them disappear! Grab some for movie night, and you’ll feel like a gourmet chef!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Pastry: These thin sheets create the crispy base. If you can’t find phyllo, try using puff pastry as a substitute. Just roll it out and cut it into squares to fit your muffin tin.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds a rich, creamy texture. You can substitute it with Camembert for a similar taste or even goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Fig Jam: This sweet spread is essential for flavor. If figs aren’t your thing, use apricot or raspberry jam for a different but still delicious taste.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch, but you can leave them out if there are nut allergies or if you prefer a smoother texture.
Thyme: Fresh thyme elevates the dish, but dried thyme works in a pinch. Just use a tiny amount, as dried herbs are usually more potent.
How Do I Layer Phyllo Pastry Without It Getting Soggy?
Layering phyllo pastry can be tricky, but here’s how to keep it crispy:
- Use melted butter between layers—this helps create that classic flaky texture.
- Keep the phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel when you’re not using them to prevent drying out.
- Be sure to bake until they are golden brown and crispy before filling, as this helps remove moisture.
Getting it right takes a little practice, but the tasty results are worth it!
Brie and Fig Phyllo Cups
Ingredients
- 12 phyllo pastry sheets (or pre-cut phyllo cup shells)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing phyllo)
- 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup fig jam
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Time Estimate
This delightful recipe will take about 15-20 minutes for preparation and an additional 15 minutes for baking, making the total time around 30-35 minutes. Perfect for when you need a quick appetizer!
Detailed Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using whole phyllo sheets, carefully separate them and cover them with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
2. Prepare the Phyllo Cups
Take one sheet of phyllo pastry and brush it with melted butter. Press it gently into a mini muffin tin cup. Repeat this process with 3-4 more sheets, brushing each one with butter before adding it on top of the last. This layering creates that lovely crispy texture.
3. Bake the Phyllo Cups
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake the phyllo cups for about 7-10 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly.
4. Add the Brie
Now it’s time to add the delicious Brie! Place one small cube of Brie cheese into each phyllo cup, making sure they fit snugly inside.
5. Spoon on the Fig Jam
Next, take a small spoonful of fig jam and place it on top of the Brie in each cup. This adds a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
6. Add the Nuts (Optional)
If you’re using nuts, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans over the fig jam for an extra crunch.
7. Final Baking
Return the filled phyllo cups to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, just until the Brie begins to soften. Be careful not to melt it completely!
8. Garnish and Serve
Remove the cups from the oven and garnish each with a few fresh thyme leaves if you’d like. Serve them warm or let them cool to room temperature. They make a gorgeous addition to any appetizer spread!
Enjoy these perfect bites of crispy, creamy, and sweet goodness!
Can I Use Store-Bought Phyllo Cups Instead?
Absolutely! Using pre-made phyllo cup shells will save you time and effort. Just fill them with Brie and fig jam as instructed and bake for a few minutes to warm them up!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Make These in Advance?
You can prepare the phyllo cups ahead of time and keep them stored in an airtight container for up to a day. Just fill and bake them when you’re ready to serve—super convenient for parties!
What Can I Substitute for Fig Jam?
If fig jam isn’t available, you can use other types of fruit preserves such as apricot, raspberry, or even honey for a different flavor profile while still achieving that sweet touch.
