Cranberry Brie Cups

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These delightful Cranberry Brie Cups are the perfect bite-sized appetizers that are sure to impress your family and guests alike. With a crispy fillo shell, creamy brie cheese, and a hint of sweet-tart cranberry sauce, these cups offer an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, making them an ideal choice for any gathering, from holiday parties to brunches.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These Cranberry Brie Cups are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. They feature the rich creaminess of brie, balanced perfectly by the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce. Each bite is a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with sparkling drinks or warm beverages during festive occasions. The use of mini fillo shells makes these cups effortlessly elegant, perfect for any event where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 oz brie cheese, cut into small pieces
• ⅓ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 15 mini fillo shells (found in the freezer section)
• ½ tbsp orange zest (freshly grated for the best flavor)

How To Make Cranberry Brie Cups

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your mini fillo shells will be perfectly crisp and golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Fillo Shells

Remove the mini fillo shells from their packaging and arrange them on a baking sheet. Make sure to leave a little space between each shell to allow for even baking.

Step 3: Add the Brie

Place a small piece of brie cheese at the bottom of each fillo shell. The rich, creamy texture of the brie will melt beautifully as they bake, creating a wonderful filling.

Step 4: Top with Cranberry Sauce

Spoon about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce over the brie in each shell. Make sure to cover the brie well, as the tangy flavor of the cranberry will complement the cheese perfectly.

Step 5: Add Orange Zest

Sprinkle a bit of freshly grated orange zest over the cranberry sauce in each shell. This will add a delightful citrusy note that brightens the whole dish.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fillo shells are crisp and the brie is melted. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the Cranberry Brie Cups are golden and bubbly, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm and watch them disappear!

Expert Tips

• For a touch of sweetness, try drizzling a bit of honey over the top just before serving.
• Use homemade cranberry sauce for a fresher flavor—it’s simpler than you might think!
• If you’re preparing these cups in advance, bake them right before serving for the best texture.
• Experiment with different types of cheese! Goat cheese or a sharp cheddar can also work beautifully.

Variations and Customizations

• Substitute cranberry sauce with another fruit preserve, such as fig or raspberry.
• Add some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch.
• Mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a savory twist.
• Top with a dollop of balsamic reduction for extra flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Cranberry Brie Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness and melty filling. While these cups are best fresh, a quick reheat can revive their deliciousness!

FAQ

Can I use other types of cheese instead of brie?

Absolutely! While brie offers a creamy texture, you can substitute it with goat cheese, cream cheese, or even a more robust cheese like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.

Can I make these cups ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cups by filling the shells with cheese and cranberry sauce and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply bake them in the oven until heated through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The mini fillo shells typically contain wheat flour, so they are not gluten-free. However, you can look for gluten-free options at your local grocery store or try making your own gluten-free pastry shells.

Can I freeze the Cranberry Brie Cups?

It’s best to bake them fresh, but if you want to freeze them, assemble the cups without baking. After filling, you can freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. When ready to serve, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

These Cranberry Brie Cups are an easy yet elegant appetizer that will elevate any gathering. With their crisp fillo shells, melty brie, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce, they are a flavor experience you won’t want to miss. Enjoy them at your next party or holiday gathering, and watch as the compliments roll in!