My neighbor once brought over these delightful Cranberry Brie Cups, and the moment I bit into one, the perfect harmony of creamy brie and tangy cranberry sauce danced on my taste buds. They’re unbelievably easy to make but taste like you’ve spent hours crafting them—ideal for when you want to impress without the stress. Whether it’s a cozy holiday gathering or a spontaneous dinner party, these bite-sized wonders bring warmth and elegance to any table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, Cranberry Brie Cups will become your go-to crowd-pleaser for every season.
Why choose Cranberry Brie Cups?
Simplicity is key with Cranberry Brie Cups—they’re quick to assemble yet look impressively gourmet. Flavor fusion shines as creamy brie meets tangy cranberry, creating a deliciously balanced bite. Versatility allows these cups to be a festive appetizer or an elegant snack anytime. Crowd-pleaser status means everyone will ask for seconds. Plus, they’re perfect for those tired of fast food but craving comfort made fresh!
Cranberry Brie Cups Ingredients
For the Cups
- Ready-made mini phyllo shells – make assembling quick and mess-free with these crisp, flaky bases.
- Fresh brie cheese – use creamy, mild brie for that signature gooey, melty twist in each bite.
For the Filling
- Whole berry cranberry sauce – adds a tangy burst that perfectly complements the rich brie; this key ingredient defines Cranberry Brie Cups.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts – provide a delightful crunch and earthy flavor contrast.
For Garnish
- Fresh rosemary sprigs – add a fragrant, herbaceous note that elevates presentation and taste.
- Honey drizzle – optional, but a sweet touch that harmonizes the tart and creamy flavors beautifully.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Cups
- Prep Shells: Lay mini phyllo cups on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly to ensure crisp, golden edges and avoid overcrowding during baking.
- Portion Filling: Place a small cube of brie and a teaspoon of whole berry cranberry sauce into each shell for a balanced bite of creamy richness and tangy sweetness.
For Baking:
- Bake: Pop the tray into a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 8–10 minutes until the brie is luxuriously gooey and the phyllo cups turn golden brown at the edges.
For Garnish:
- Garnish: Remove the cups and let them cool on the sheet for about 2 minutes before garnishing with chopped pecans, a light honey drizzle, and a fresh rosemary sprig.
Optional: Serve warm for maximum gooey delight.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Cranberry Brie Cups
Feel free to get creative with your Cranberry Brie Cups, enhancing or tailoring flavors to match your taste!
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Savory Twist: Replace cranberry sauce with caramelized onion for a rich, savory treat that delights the palate. The sweet contrast of nutty flavors elevates these cups to a gourmet experience.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce for a subtle heat that balances the creamy brie. Each bite will surprise and excite your taste buds with this bold twist.
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Fruit Fusion: Swap out cranberry sauce for fig jam or apple chutney for a fruity change. The sweetness of figs or apples adds a delicious depth that complements the brie beautifully.
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Nuts Galore: Use sliced almonds or pistachios instead of pecans for a unique crunch and flavor profile. The slight sweetness of pistachios pairs wonderfully with the rich brie!
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Herbaceous Notes: Sprinkle fresh thyme or dill on top instead of rosemary for a fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens each cup. These herbs invite a garden-fresh aroma to every bite.
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Sweet Delight: Experiment with adding a thin slice of pear or apple beneath the brie for a delightful layer of fruit. The added sweetness contrasts nicely with the tangy cranberry and creamy brie.
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Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a plant-based cranberry spread for a vegan-friendly option. You can still enjoy every creamy, tangy bit in a cruelty-free manner!
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Mini Tarts: Transform this recipe into mini tarts by using pastry dough instead of phyllo cups, adding a buttery, flaky texture. These delightful pastry cups will take your appetizer to a whole new level!
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Brie Cups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling—comprising cubed brie and cranberry sauce—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the filling in a separate container and refrigerate it to maintain freshness until you’re ready to bake. The phyllo shells can also be laid out on a baking sheet ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, just add the filling to the shells and bake them in a preheated oven for 8–10 minutes until the brie is wonderfully gooey and the edges of the phyllo shells are golden. This way, you’ll have stunning, delicious appetizers that taste just as fresh and delightful with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Brie Cups
- Use Quality Brie: Opt for fresh, creamy brie rather than pre-sliced to achieve that perfect gooey melt inside each cranberry brie cup.
- Don’t Overfill: Keep filling portions balanced—too much cranberry sauce or brie can make the cups soggy or difficult to bite.
- Watch Baking Time: Bake just until the phyllo edges turn golden and the brie softens; overbaking dries out the cheese and crispness.
- Cool Slightly Before Serving: Let the cups rest a couple of minutes post-baking to avoid hot filling spills and help flavors meld.
- Add Garnishes Last: Sprinkle nuts and drizzle honey after baking to preserve crunch and freshness in your cranberry brie cups.
What to Serve with Cranberry Brie Cups?
Create a delicious spread that beautifully complements the warm, gooey morsels of flavor.
- Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the brie and cranberry.
- Garlic Butter Baguette: Crunchy, toasted baguette slices with a touch of garlic provide the perfect crunchy contrast.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots enhance the honey drizzle in your cups while adding vibrant color.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: The warm, comforting flavors of tomato soup create a soothing accompaniment to these savory bites.
For a cozy touch, serve these alongside your favorite soup. Picture dipping those rich bites into the velvety goodness of warm tomato, adding depth to every taste sensation.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly drink offers a refreshing palate cleanser, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
- Chocolate Fondue: A sweet dip for dessert, this provides a delightful finale to your meal—a perfect sweet note after the savory courses.
Each pairing creates a memorable dining experience, inviting everyone to savor each moment together.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Brie Cups
Room Temperature: Enjoy leftover Cranberry Brie Cups within 2 hours of baking, as they’re best served warm and gooey.
Fridge: Store any uneaten cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the unbaked cups before adding the filling for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, add filling directly from the freezer and bake an additional 2-3 minutes.
Reheating: To reheat, place cold or thawed cups on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and the brie is melty again.
Cranberry Brie Cups Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best brie for Cranberry Brie Cups?
Look for fresh, creamy brie with a smooth texture and mild aroma. Avoid overly ripe brie with dark spots all over, as it can be too strong or rubbery. The fresher and softer, the better for that perfect gooey melt.
Can I store leftover Cranberry Brie Cups, and how long do they last?
Absolutely! Store leftover cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed warm, so reheating in the oven before serving is ideal to bring back that melty goodness.
Is it possible to freeze Cranberry Brie Cups?
Yes, and I often do this to prep ahead! Freeze the unbaked phyllo cups before adding brie and cranberry filling for up to 1 month. When ready, add filling directly from frozen and bake for an extra 2–3 minutes at 350°F until bubbly and golden.
What if my phyllo cups become soggy?
To avoid sogginess, don’t overfill with brie or cranberry sauce. Also, make sure your phyllo shells are spaced out on the baking sheet for proper crisping. Baking just until edges turn golden and brie melts perfectly helps keep that crisp flaky texture.
Are Cranberry Brie Cups safe for my pets or suitable for allergy-sensitive guests?
While these cups are delicious for humans, brie cheese and nuts can be harmful to pets, so keep them out of reach. For guests with nut allergies, simply omit the chopped pecans or walnuts; the cups still shine with just brie, cranberry, and rosemary.
Easy Cranberry Brie Cups Recipe with a Gooey, Melty Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Lay mini phyllo cups on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Place a small cube of brie and a teaspoon of whole berry cranberry sauce into each shell.
- Pop the tray into a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 8–10 minutes.
- Remove the cups and let them cool for about 2 minutes before garnishing.
