Top Cranberry Dishes for Thanksgiving: Simple Phyllo Cups with Goat Cheese
Thanksgiving is all about indulging in warm, flavorful dishes that bring family and friends together. If you’re looking for a festive appetizer, these Cranberry Phyllo Cups with Goat Cheese are a must-try! They combine crispy phyllo dough, creamy goat cheese, and tangy cranberry sauce for a delicious balance of textures and flavors.
In this article, you’ll find a step-by-step recipe, helpful tips, and creative variations to make these cranberry phyllo cups even more exciting.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Cranberry Phyllo Cups
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Phyllo Cups
- Delicious Variations to Try
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Cranberry Phyllo Cups
Before we dive into the process, let’s gather everything you need for this simple yet elegant appetizer.
Main Ingredients
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional) – Adds a hint of freshness.
Phyllo dough sheets – Provides the crisp, flaky base.
Goat cheese – Adds a creamy, tangy contrast.
Cranberry sauce – Brings a sweet and tart flavor.
Honey – Enhances the sweetness.
Butter (melted) – Helps crisp up the phyllo cups.
Salt & black pepper – To enhance the flavors.
For Homemade Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- ¼ cup orange juice
- ¼ cup honey or sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
3. How to Make Cranberry Phyllo Cups with Goat Cheese
- Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Phyllo Cups
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the phyllo dough into small squares (about 3×3 inches).
Layer 2-3 phyllo squares into each mini muffin tin, brushing each layer with melted butter to prevent drying.
Bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 2: Make the Goat Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, mix goat cheese, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cheese mixture into each baked phyllo cup.
Step 3: Add the Cranberry Topping & Bake
Top each cup with 1 teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
Return to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Phyllo Cups
Use fresh phyllo dough for the crispiest texture. Avoid frozen dough if possible.
Don’t overload the cups – Too much filling can cause them to become soggy.
Serve immediately – These cups taste best when fresh and warm.
Delicious Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Try these fun variations:
1. Add Nuts for Extra Crunch
Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty texture.
2. Use Brie Instead of Goat Cheese
If you prefer a milder cheese, replace goat cheese with brie.
3. Make It Spicy
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of jalapeño jam for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
These cranberry phyllo cups pair perfectly with:
✔ Holiday cocktails like mulled wine or cranberry mimosas.
✔ A Thanksgiving charcuterie board with crackers and fruit.
✔ Roasted turkey or other main dishes as a side appetizer.
4. Expert Tips for the Best Phyllo Cups
- Use pre-made phyllo cups for convenience, or make your own by cutting phyllo dough into squares, brushing with butter, and baking in mini muffin tins.
- Don’t overfill the cups, as too much filling can spill over while baking.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
5. Delicious Variations & Ingredient Swaps
✔️ Cheese Substitutes
- Replace goat cheese with brie, blue cheese, or cream cheese for a different taste.
✔️ Nut-Free Option
- Omit nuts or use pumpkin seeds for crunch.
✔️ Make It Vegan
- Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and maple syrup instead of honey.
6. Make-Ahead & Storage Tip
Make-Ahead Option
- Prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge.
- Assemble and bake just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes.
7. Pairing Suggestions
These cranberry phyllo cups pair well with:
- Thanksgiving turkey or roast chicken
- Charcuterie boards with cured meats and cheeses
- Sparkling wine, white wine, or cranberry cocktails
8. Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~90 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fats | 5g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Q1: Can I use frozen phyllo dough instead of pre-made cups?
Yes! Cut and shape phyllo sheets into mini muffin tins before baking.
Q2: How can I make homemade cranberry sauce?
Simmer cranberries, orange juice, and honey for 10 minutes until thickened.
Q3: Can these be served at room temperature?
Yes, but they taste best warm when the cheese is soft and creamy.
Q4: What can I serve these with?
Pair with a cheese board or light salad for a complete appetizer spread.
10. Final Thoughts
These Cranberry Phyllo Cups with Goat Cheese bring a festive, gourmet touch to your Thanksgiving table. The contrast of crisp phyllo, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese makes them an irresistible holiday treat.
Looking for more Thanksgiving recipes? Let us know in the comments!
Cranberry Recipes for Thanksgiving: Phyllo Cups with Goat Cheese Desired tone: Formal, Informal Desired length: at least 5 sentences
Q1: Can I use frozen phyllo dough instead of pre-made cups?
Yes! Cut and shape phyllo sheets into mini muffin tins before baking.
Q2: How can I make homemade cranberry sauce?
Simmer cranberries, orange juice, and honey for 10 minutes until thickened.
Q3: Can these be served at room temperature?
Yes, but they taste best warm when the cheese is soft and creamy.
Q4: What can I serve these with?
Pair with a cheese board or light salad for a complete appetizer spread. Final Thoughts: These Cranberry Phyllo Cups with Goat Cheese bring a festive, gourmet touch to your Thanksgiving table. The contrast of crisp phyllo, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese makes them an irresistible holiday treat. Looking for more Thanksgiving recipes? Let us know in the comments!
Cranberry Recipes for Thanksgiving: Phyllo Cups with Goat Cheese
Let us know in the comments!