Are you looking for an elegant yet easy appetizer or a charming dessert that will impress your guests? Look no further! These mini phyllo cup recipes are the perfect solution for any gathering, from casual weeknight dinners to sophisticated parties. They're incredibly versatile, adaptable to both sweet and savory fillings, and surprisingly simple to make. Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these delicious and delightful bite-sized wonders!
Ingredients:
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For the Phyllo Cups:
- 1 package (8 oz) phyllo dough, thawed
- 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
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For the Savory Filling (Spinach and Feta):
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Sweet Filling (Berry Cream Cheese):
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Instructions:
Making the Phyllo Cups:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
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Prepare the Phyllo: Carefully separate the phyllo sheets. Work quickly to prevent them from drying out.
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Assemble the Cups: Cut each phyllo sheet into four equal squares. Brush each square lightly with melted butter. Gently press one buttered square into each muffin cup, creating a cup shape. Overlap the edges slightly to create a seamless cup. Repeat with a second buttered square, layering it over the first to create a more sturdy and less transparent cup.
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Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the muffin tin before carefully removing the phyllo cups.
Preparing the Savory Filling:
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Sauté the Onion: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Add Spinach and Garlic: Add the chopped spinach and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine with Feta: Remove from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese. Let the mixture cool slightly before filling the phyllo cups.
Preparing the Sweet Filling:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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Fold in Berries: Gently fold in the mixed berries.
Filling and Serving:
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Fill the Cups: Once the phyllo cups are completely cool, spoon the savory spinach and feta filling or the sweet berry cream cheese filling into each cup.
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Garnish (Optional): Garnish the savory cups with a sprinkle of extra feta or a sprig of fresh herbs. For the sweet cups, a dusting of powdered sugar or a fresh berry on top adds a lovely touch.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or chill for later. These mini phyllo cups are best enjoyed fresh.
Tips and Variations:
- For perfectly crisp cups: Ensure your oven is properly preheated and don’t overcrowd the muffin tin.
- Get creative with fillings: Experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, meats, and fruits to create your own unique flavor combinations. Roasted vegetables, mushrooms, chicken, or even a simple chocolate ganache are all fantastic options.
- Make ahead: The phyllo cups can be baked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. Fill them just before serving.
- Dietary Considerations: For a vegan version, use vegan butter and phyllo dough, and substitute the feta with vegan cream cheese or another vegan alternative in the savory filling.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, varies with filling):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in your filling.
- Calories: 150-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-25g
- Protein: 3-5g
These mini phyllo cup recipes are a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. They're perfect for quick dinner ideas, homemade cooking projects, and making a lasting impression with delicious dishes. Enjoy creating these bite-sized masterpieces!