Are you looking for a show-stopping appetizer that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This baked brie phyllo dough recipe is the perfect solution for your next gathering, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a fancy holiday party. It's a delightful blend of creamy brie, buttery phyllo, and sweet honey, guaranteed to impress your guests. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are also quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet (14.1 oz) frozen phyllo dough, thawed
- 8 oz wheel of brie cheese, rind removed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. This simple step ensures your phyllo cups won't stick.
Prepare the phyllo: Carefully unfold the thawed phyllo dough. If it's cracked, don't worry; it's perfectly fine to work with. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 4 equal squares. You might need to trim the edges to get even squares.
Assemble the brie cups: Brush each phyllo square lightly with olive oil. This helps to make them crispy and golden brown. Layer two phyllo squares on top of each other, slightly overlapping the edges. Place each phyllo square into a muffin tin, pressing gently into the cup to form a well. Repeat with the remaining phyllo squares.
Fill and bake: Place the brie cheese in the center of each phyllo cup. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped nuts (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy, and the brie is melted and bubbly.
Serve and enjoy: Carefully remove the brie phyllo cups from the muffin tin and serve immediately. This appetizer is best served warm, allowing the melted brie to flow beautifully.
Tips for the Best Baked Brie Phyllo Cups:
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Thawing the phyllo: Make sure your phyllo dough is completely thawed before using it. This prevents it from tearing easily. Cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
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Oil is key: Don't skimp on the olive oil. It helps create flaky, golden-brown phyllo cups.
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Don't overbake: Keep a close eye on your brie phyllo cups while they are baking. Overbaking can lead to burnt phyllo.
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Creative toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings. Cranberries, fig jam, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon would be delicious additions.
Variations:
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Spicy Brie: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
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Savory Brie: Omit the honey and add caramelized onions or roasted garlic for a savory twist. This is an excellent example of easy recipes that can be customized to your taste.
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Herby Brie: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate would be around 250-300 calories, with a moderate amount of fat and protein. This baked brie is best enjoyed as an appetizer or part of a larger meal to maintain a balanced diet.
This baked brie phyllo dough recipe is a simple yet elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking and is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. It's the perfect combination of easy recipes and healthy meals, offering a delicious and satisfying experience. Enjoy!