Description
Cranberry & Almond Goat Cheese Phyllo Bites combine elegant flavors from Mediterranean and North American cuisines. Crisp phyllo layers cradle creamy goat cheese, tart cranberries, and toasted almonds, then shimmer with a luxurious maple balsamic reduction that invites savory-sweet exploration.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package phyllo dough (pre-made cups or sheets)
- 1 ½ cups goat cheese, softened
- ½ cup fresh cranberries
- ¼ cup slivered almonds, toasted
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using phyllo sheets)
Instructions
- Craft crisp phyllo vessels by layering three phyllo sheets, brushing each with olive oil, then cutting into precise squares measuring approximately 2 inches (5 centimeters).
- Delicately press these squares into a muffin tin, creating elegant, lightweight cups with slightly ruffled edges.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), positioning the rack in the middle to ensure even heat distribution.
- Bake the phyllo cups for 8-10 minutes until they transform into a delicate golden hue with a satisfying crispness.
- Remove the cups from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, maintaining their structural integrity.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened goat cheese with maple syrup and finely chopped fresh thyme leaves.
- Gently whip the mixture until it achieves a smooth, creamy consistency with herbs evenly distributed.
- Carefully spoon the herbed goat cheese mixture into each cooled phyllo cup, filling them about three-quarters full.
- Sprinkle a measured amount of fresh cranberries and toasted almonds atop each filled cup, creating a balanced and visually appealing garnish.
- Finish by drizzling a harmonious blend of remaining maple syrup and balsamic reduction over the prepared bites, ensuring each morsel receives a delicate glaze.
Notes
- Elevate your appetizer game with these elegant, crispy phyllo bites that combine tangy goat cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy almonds.
- Phyllo sheets can be transformed into delicate cups by carefully brushing with olive oil and layering three sheets before cutting and pressing into muffin tins.
- Prepare the filling ahead of time by softening goat cheese and mixing with maple syrup and thyme for a smooth, aromatic base.
- Toast almonds beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy cheese.
- The maple balsamic drizzle is the secret weapon, adding a sophisticated sweet-tangy finish that elevates these bite-sized treats from good to absolutely irresistible.
- Serve these as a stunning party appetizer that looks professionally made but is surprisingly simple to create at home.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 95 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg