Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups

As the holiday season descends upon us, I find myself reminiscing about the countless gatherings filled with warmth, laughter, and of course, delectable food. A few years back, at a cozy little get-together, I stumbled across a dish that completely stole the show: Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups. I watched, mesmerized, as guests indulged in these crispy, delightful treats, each bite bursting with a perfect blend of sweet and savory. The crunch of the phyllo, the creamy richness of cream cheese, and a hint of spice from the pepper jelly created a symphony of flavors that danced on everyone’s palate. Realizing I had to add this to my repertoire, I embarked on making these luscious bites myself and quickly discovered how simple and rewarding they are to whip up at home.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 10 minutes
• Active Cooking: 7 minutes
• Total Duration: 17 minutes
• Portion Size: 12 phyllo cups
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 130
• Protein: 3g
• Carbs: 8g
• Fats: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups

These delightful phyllo cups are a dream come true for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, bringing a plate to a potluck, or simply in need of a versatile snack, these cups deliver both ease and elegance. The harmonious blend of the tangy cranberry pepper jelly and rich cream cheese creates a filling that feels indulgent yet approachable. Plus, the added green onions and walnuts give texture and brightness, making these treats a conversation starter that you won’t easily forget!

The Complete Cooking Journey

Imagine walking into your kitchen, the scent of freshly baked phyllo wafting through the air. As you prepare to recreate this magical experience, the anticipation builds. You’ll be delighted with the abundant flavors packed into these small bites that offer majestic culinary flair without demanding hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 12 phyllo pastry cups
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup cranberry pepper jelly
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Method:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your phyllo cups bake evenly and develop that beautiful golden color.

Step 2: Bake the Phyllo Cups

Place the phyllo cups on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Your kitchen will start to fill with a delightful aroma!

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cranberry pepper jelly, chopped green onions, and walnuts (if using). Mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth, creating a rich, creamy filling.

Step 4: Season to Taste

Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. It’s essential to adjust the seasoning to your preference so that every bite is just perfect!

Step 5: Cool the Phyllo Cups

Remove the phyllo cups from the oven and let them cool slightly. This step is vital to ensure you don’t scorch your fingers when filling them up!

Step 6: Fill the Cups Generously

Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each phyllo cup, filling them generously. Don’t be shy; the more filling, the better!

Step 7: Garnish with Fresh Parsley

To give your phyllo cups a pop of color and added flavor, garnish with fresh parsley. It’s the finishing touch that elevates these delicious bites.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving. Either way, they’re sure to disappear quickly!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These phyllo cups pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or can be served as part of a charcuterie board. For drinks, consider a sparkling rosé or a light white wine; their acidity complements the richness of the cream cheese beautifully!

Storage & Leftovers Guide

Although best enjoyed fresh, you can refrigerate any leftover phyllo cups for up to an hour. However, if you anticipate leftovers beyond that, store the filling separately from the cups to maintain their crispness. Reheat the phyllo cups in a 350°F oven for a few minutes before adding the filling again.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• Keep your phyllo cups covered while you’re preparing the filling to ensure they remain crisp.
• If you can’t find cranberry pepper jelly, cranberry sauce with a touch of hot sauce can serve as a delightful substitute!

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Looking to mix things up? Try incorporating different ingredients such as dried cranberries, roasted red peppers, or even feta cheese for a unique twist. You can also swap out the walnuts for pecans or almonds for additional crunch.

Reader Questions & Solutions

• Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes! Cream cheese can be swapped for goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
• How do I make them ahead of time? Prepare the filling and store it separately. Assemble the cups shortly before serving.
• Can I freeze these? While phyllo cups can be frozen before baking, it’s best to bake them fresh for optimal texture.
• What if I don’t have phyllo cups? You can use tortilla chips or cucumber slices as a base for this filling.
• Are there gluten-free options? Look for gluten-free phyllo cups or use vegetable slices as alternatives.

Wrapping Up

Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups are not just a recipe; they’re an invitation to savor the moment, connect with loved ones, and celebrate the joys of cooking. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and create something beautiful. These cups will not only please your taste buds but also light up your occasions with their vibrant flavors. Happy cooking!

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