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Crispy Phyllo Cups with Brie Cranberry Candied Pecans

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These crispy phyllo cups filled with creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and crunchy candied pecans make an easy, elegant holiday appetizer that’s quick to prepare and sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8–10 phyllo dough sheets, thawed
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small chunks
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Zest of one medium orange (optional)
  • Ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Lay one sheet of phyllo on a clean surface and brush with melted butter. Layer another sheet on top and brush again. Repeat until you have 4-5 layers.
  3. Cut the stacked phyllo into 12 equal squares (about 5×5 inches each). Gently press each square into the muffin tin cups, molding the edges to form little cups.
  4. Bake the phyllo cups for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove and cool on a rack.
  5. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter and sugar, stirring until bubbly and caramel-colored (about 3-4 minutes). Add pecans, cinnamon, and salt, stirring to coat. Spread on parchment to cool.
  6. Place a chunk of brie inside each cooled phyllo cup. Add a teaspoon of cranberry sauce on top, then garnish with 2-3 candied pecans. Finish with a sprinkle of orange zest and a crack of black pepper.
  7. Serve immediately while the brie is soft and the phyllo retains its crunch.

Notes

Keep phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out. Brush each phyllo layer gently with butter for crispness. Bake phyllo cups ahead and store in an airtight container at room temperature; assemble just before serving to avoid sogginess. Use fresh pecans for best flavor. For vegan or dairy-free options, substitute brie with cashew-based cheese and use vegan butter. Gluten-free phyllo or mini polenta cups can be used for gluten sensitivity.

Nutrition

Keywords: phyllo cups, brie, cranberry sauce, candied pecans, holiday appetizer, easy appetizer, party food, festive recipe

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/crispy-phyllo-cups-with-brie-cranberry-candied-pecans-easy-holiday-appetizer-recipe/