Name: Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package (15 count) mini phyllo shells; 4 ounces Brie cheese, cut into small cubes; ⅓ cup whole berry cranberry sauce; 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped; Honey for drizzling (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.1 from 50 reviews

If you’re on the lookout for a festive, irresistibly tasty bite to wow your guests, this Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Combining the creamy richness of melted brie with the bright, tangy burst of whole berry cranberry sauce inside a delightfully crisp phyllo shell, these little cups deliver big flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a charming appetizer that feels both elegant and approachable, these phyllo cups bring together simple ingredients in a way that feels special and comforting all at once.

Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are delightfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in balancing texture and flavor. From the flaky crunch of the phyllo to the fruity sweetness of cranberry and the subtle herbal lift from rosemary, every component makes this recipe shine.

Mini phyllo shells: These provide a perfectly crisp, buttery vessel that holds all the creamy and tangy fillings without getting soggy.
Brie cheese (4 ounces, cut into small cubes): Melts beautifully into a luscious, smooth center with a mild, buttery flavor that pairs exceptionally well with fruit.
Whole berry cranberry sauce (⅓ cup): Adds vibrant color and a slightly tart sweetness that contrasts the rich cheese perfectly.
Chopped pecans or walnuts (2 tablespoons, optional): Toasted nuts bring a nutty crunch and depth to the overall texture and taste.
Fresh rosemary (1 teaspoon, finely chopped): Offers an aromatic herbal note that brightens the sweetness and richness.
Honey (for drizzling, optional): A subtle finish of honey enhances sweetness and adds a delicate shine to the cups.

How to Make Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Phyllo Shells

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) — the perfect temperature to gently melt the brie without losing that signature flaky crunch of the phyllo shells. Arrange the mini phyllo cups evenly on a baking sheet, giving each one enough space to bake evenly.

Step 2: Fill with Brie and Cranberry Sauce

Place one small cube of brie cheese into each phyllo shell. The size of the cube is important — just enough to melt and ooze without overflowing. Next, scoop about a teaspoon of whole berry cranberry sauce on top of the brie. The juicy berries will burst with flavor once baked.

Step 3: Add Nuts and Rosemary

If you’re using nuts, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cranberry-topped brie for a crunchy contrast. Then, add a pinch of finely chopped fresh rosemary: its piney, earthy brightness brings a lovely complexity to this appetizer.

Step 4: Bake Until Melty and Golden

Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 10–12 minutes. You’ll want to watch closely until the brie has melted and looks bubbly but the phyllo hasn’t browned too much. This careful timing is the key to a perfect bite every time.

Step 5: Drizzle Honey and Cool Slightly

Once out of the oven, let the cups cool just a bit to avoid burning, then drizzle with a little honey if desired. This last touch adds a glossy finish and a hint of sweet balance that makes these bites feel extra special.

How to Serve Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups Recipe

Garnishes

While the recipe is beautiful on its own, you can elevate presentation with a few extra touches. Fresh rosemary sprigs, extra whole cranberries, or a light sprinkle of finely chopped nuts can add visual appeal and hint at the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

These phyllo cups pair wonderfully with simple green salads or a platter of charcuterie featuring mild meats and fresh fruits. They also shine during a festive brunch or cocktail hour alongside sparkling wine or a crisp white.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, arrange these cranberry brie phyllo cups on tiered serving trays or rustic wooden boards to make a striking centerpiece. You can also serve them with little cocktail picks for easy handling, making them highly shareable and mess-free.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might not be likely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed warmed slightly since the brie can firm up when chilled.

Freezing

While freezing phyllo cups filled with brie and cranberry isn’t ideal because of texture changes, you can freeze the unbaked assembled cups on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftover cups on a baking sheet and warm in a 325°F oven for about 5–7 minutes. This keeps the phyllo crisp and melts the cheese again without drying out the cranberry topping.

FAQs

Can I make these Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the cups a few hours before baking and keep them covered in the fridge. Just bake them right before serving to maintain that signature flaky texture and warm gooey cheese.

What type of brie cheese works best?

A mild, creamy brie with a soft rind is best since it melts smoothly and complements the tart cranberry. Avoid ones that are too pungent or aged as they may overpower the other flavors.

Can I substitute the cranberry sauce with other spreads?

Yes, you can swap cranberry sauce for fig jam, raspberry preserves, or even apricot jam for an interesting twist. Each brings its own unique sweetness and depth to the flavors.

Are these phyllo cups gluten-free?

Traditional phyllo dough contains gluten, so these cups are not gluten-free unless you find gluten-free mini phyllo shells. Check specialty stores or make your own with gluten-free dough.

How can I make this recipe nut-free?

Simply skip the chopped nuts in the topping. The filling is delicious and flavorful on its own, and you’ll still have the satisfying crispness from the phyllo shells.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly joyful about serving a bite-sized appetizer that effortlessly blends creamy, sweet, tart, and crunchy all at once. This Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups Recipe is one of those delightful treats that brings warmth and sparkle to any gathering. I hope you give these a try soon and find them to be as addictive and crowd-pleasing as I do — they truly make holiday entertaining a breeze!