These Brie and Bacon Phyllo Cups are a tasty treat! With crispy phyllo dough filled with gooey brie cheese and crunchy bacon, they are perfect for any gathering.
You can’t go wrong when cheese and bacon join forces! I love serving these at parties, and they’re always the first to disappear. So, be ready to share…or not! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This is crucial for that flaky texture! If you can’t find phyllo, puff pastry is a good backup. Just roll it out and cut it into squares.
Brie Cheese: Brie gives a creamy richness, but you can swap it out with Camembert or even a creamy goat cheese if you prefer a tangy flavor.
Bacon: For a lighter option, turkey bacon works great! You could also use cooked pancetta or even skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Caramelized Onions: If you’re short on time, store-bought onion jam works well. You can even add a spoonful of fig jam for a sweet touch!
How Do I Work with Phyllo Dough Without It Drying Out?
Phyllo dough can be tricky because it dries quickly. To keep it moist, cover the sheets you’re not using with a damp kitchen towel while you work. This prevents them from cracking.
- Always work on a clean, flat surface.
- Brush each layer of phyllo with melted butter generously for flavor and to help it crisp up nicely when baked.
- Stacking at least 4 layers helps create a sturdy cup that holds up well.
Taking care of the phyllo will ensure your cups are crispy and delightful!
How to Make Brie and Bacon Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cups:
- 8 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 6 tablespoons melted butter, divided
For the Filling:
- 6 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small cubes
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons caramelized onions or onion jam (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. You’ll have tasty, crispy phyllo cups ready in no time, perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, take a standard 12-cup muffin tin and lightly grease it with some melted butter to help prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Phyllo Dough:
Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean work surface. Using a brush, lightly coat it with melted butter. Place another sheet on top, repeat the brushing with butter, and do this for a total of 4 sheets. This will give your cups that nice flaky texture!
3. Cut and Shape the Cups:
Next, cut the stacked phyllo into 12 equal squares, roughly 4 inches each. Now, gently press each square into the muffin cups, making little cups with edges that flare out beautifully.
4. Fill with Brie and Bacon:
Now it’s time to fill your phyllo cups! Place a cube of Brie cheese into each cup, then sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly on top of the cheese. If you’re using them, add a small spoonful of caramelized onions or onion jam on top of the bacon for extra flavor.
5. Brush and Bake:
Before baking, brush the edges of the phyllo cups with any remaining melted butter. This will help them turn golden brown and crispy in the oven. Bake in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden and crisp and the Brie is nice and melted.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the cups from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for a touch of elegance. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Brie and Bacon Phyllo Cups—your guests will love them!
Can I Use Store-Bought Caramelized Onions?
Absolutely! Store-bought caramelized onions or onion jam can save you time. Just add a spoonful on top of the bacon to enhance the flavor without the extra cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Phyllo Cups?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to crisp them back up.
Can I Make These Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the phyllo cups and fill them with cheese and bacon, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Brie?
If you don’t have Brie, Camembert cheese works well for a similar creamy texture. You can also use goat cheese for a tangier flavor or even a cream cheese blend for a different take!
