These Brie and Bacon Phyllo Cups are little bites of happiness! Flaky and crispy phyllo dough holds creamy brie and crispy bacon, creating a perfect snack for any gathering.
They’re super easy to make, and I love how they vanish at parties! Just pop them in the oven until golden and cheesy, and watch everyone enjoy these tasty treats.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This is the star ingredient that gives the cups their delightful crunch. If you can’t find phyllo dough, puff pastry is a good alternative, although it will create a different texture.
Brie Cheese: The creamy goodness of brie is irreplaceable, but you can try camembert for a similar flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, cream cheese works too, but the taste will change a bit.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a nice crunch and flavor. If you’re vegetarian, consider using cooked and crumbled tempeh or a smoky mushroom for that savory taste.
Caramelized Onion: This is optional, but it adds fantastic flavor. If you’re pressed for time, you could use store-bought onion jam or even a sprinkle of onion powder in a pinch.
How Do I Perfectly Layer Phyllo Dough?
Layering phyllo dough can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll get it right! First, working with the dough when it’s cold makes it easier. Here’s how to do it:
- Place a sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush lightly with melted butter.
- Layer another sheet on top, buttering again. Repeat this for 3-4 layers.
- Cut the stacked dough into squares that fit your muffin tin.
- Gently place the squares into the muffin cups, pressing the edges up to form a small cup.
This will create a nice, flaky texture for your cups that holds all the delicious fillings perfectly!
Brie And Bacon Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Phyllo Cups:
- 12 sheets phyllo dough
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 6 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 6 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped
For Topping (Optional):
- 1/4 cup caramelized onion or onion jam
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar (to caramelize onions if making onion jam)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or an impressive party bite!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the cups.
2. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter. This helps prevent sticking and make removing the cups easier later on.
3. Layer the Phyllo Dough:
On a clean surface, take one sheet of phyllo dough and gently brush it with melted butter. Layer another sheet on top and brush it again with butter. Repeat until you have 3 to 4 layers to make the cups sturdy.
4. Cut and Shape the Dough:
Cut your stacked phyllo sheets into 3-inch squares. Place each square into the muffin cups, gently pressing it down to create little cups with edges that stand up. Repeat until you fill all the muffin cups!
5. Add the Brie and Bacon:
Place a small piece of brie cheese into each phyllo cup, then sprinkle it with a bit of the finely chopped cooked bacon.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Put the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the phyllo cups are golden brown and the brie is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Cool and Top:
Once baked, take the cups out of the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. If you’re using them, add a small spoonful of caramelized onion or onion jam on top of each cup.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Add a tiny sprig of fresh thyme to each cup for a beautiful touch. Serve these warm and enjoy the happy faces of your friends and family!
Tip: To make caramelized onions, slice some onions and cook them over low heat in a bit of butter with brown sugar until they turn golden and soft. They’ll add a deliciously sweet and savory flavor to your cups!
Can I Use Store-Bought Phyllo Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought phyllo dough is convenient and ensures a perfect texture. Just make sure to keep it covered with a damp towel while you work to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Prepare These Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the phyllo cups and fill them with cheese and bacon a few hours in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time if they go in cold.
How Should I Store Leftover Phyllo Cups?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to get them crispy again.
Can I Freeze These Cups?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking! Assemble the cups without baking and freeze them on a tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the frozen state, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.