Looking for the perfect Thanksgiving appetizer that’s both delicious and easy to prepare? These cranberry recipes for Thanksgiving cups with phyllo dough and goat cheese are just what you need! Imagine bite-sized cups filled with tangy cranberries, creamy goat cheese, and a crispy phyllo dough crust—an irresistible combination that will wow your guests. Not only do these festive cups look stunning on any holiday table, but they’re also quick to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or just looking for a tasty treat to share, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite!
Table of Contents
Key Benefits
These cranberry cups are not only a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving spread but also offer some surprising health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at why this recipe is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds:
- Packed with Antioxidants: Cranberries are known for their high antioxidant content, helping to support your immune system, especially during the colder months. They’re a natural way to boost your health while enjoying a festive treat!
- Rich in Fiber: With their fiber-rich properties, cranberries promote digestion and help keep you feeling satisfied longer. A small serving of these cups can offer a tasty, fiber-filled bite to complement your meal.
- Low in Calories: If you’re looking for a guilt-free appetizer, these cranberry cups are a great option. With minimal added sugars and healthy ingredients, they’re a low-calorie choice for those keeping an eye on their intake during the holiday season.
- Heart-Healthy: The addition of goat cheese provides a dose of healthy fats and protein, making these cups a heart-smart choice. Goat cheese is easier to digest than regular cheese, offering a creamy texture without the heaviness.
- A Burst of Flavor: The combination of tangy cranberries, rich goat cheese, and crispy phyllo dough creates a flavor explosion in every bite. These cups are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
These cranberry cups aren’t just beautiful to look at—they’re packed with benefits that make them the perfect healthy appetizer for your Thanksgiving feast. Enjoy the flavors and feel good about what you’re eating!
Ingredients
Creating these cranberry cups is simple and requires just a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious Thanksgiving appetizer to life:
- 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen section)
- Phyllo dough gives these cups their crispy, flaky texture, making each bite a delightful crunch. Be sure to thaw the dough according to package instructions before use.
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- Fresh cranberries add a tangy burst of flavor and vibrant color. You can also use frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available—just thaw them before using.
- 4 oz goat cheese
- Goat cheese provides a creamy, slightly tangy base for the filling. It pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cranberries. If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, cream cheese can be used as an alternative.
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- This natural sweetener balances out the tartness of the cranberries. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking depending on how sweet or tart you prefer the filling.
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- Orange zest adds a hint of citrusy brightness that complements the cranberries beautifully. It enhances the flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Nuts add a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor to the cups. Walnuts or pecans are perfect for this recipe, but you can skip them if you have nut allergies.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- This helps brush the phyllo dough for a golden, crispy finish. If you prefer, you can use melted butter for a richer flavor.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’ll create a savory and sweet Thanksgiving appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. Feel free to adjust the sweetness or nuts to fit your taste preferences!
How to Make Cranberry Recipes for Thanksgiving Cups with Phyllo Dough and Goat Cheese
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to assemble and bake these beautiful cranberry cups. Don’t worry; the process is simple and straightforward! Follow these easy steps to create a perfect batch of bite-sized Thanksgiving appetizers:
- Prepare the Phyllo Dough
- Start by carefully unrolling your thawed phyllo dough. Place a damp towel over it to keep it from drying out. Cut the phyllo dough into squares, large enough to fit into your muffin tin. You’ll need about 3-4 sheets per cup to get that lovely flaky texture.
- Grease the Muffin Tin
- Lightly grease your muffin tin with olive oil or melted butter to ensure the phyllo dough doesn’t stick. You want the cups to easily pop out once they’re done baking.
- Assemble the Cups
- Gently press each square of phyllo dough into the muffin tin, layering the sheets for added crunch. If you’d like, you can brush each layer lightly with olive oil or butter for extra crispness.
- Make the Cranberry Filling
- In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, honey (or maple syrup), and orange zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to burst and soften. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once they’re softened, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Fill the Cups
- Spoon the cranberry mixture into each phyllo dough cup, filling them about three-quarters full. Then, crumble the goat cheese over the top of each one. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for that added crunch.
- Bake the Cups
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cranberry cups for about 12-15 minutes, or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t over-brown.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Let the cups cool for a few minutes before serving. These cranberry cups are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, but they also make a great make-ahead appetizer that you can reheat before your Thanksgiving meal.
And there you have it—a stunning, delicious appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at your holiday celebration! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have cranberry cups with phyllo dough and goat cheese that are bursting with flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips and Variations
As you prepare these cranberry cups, keep these pro tips in mind to ensure the best results and explore some fun variations to make this recipe your own!
- Keep Phyllo Dough Moist: Phyllo dough can dry out quickly, so work fast when layering it. Cover the remaining dough with a damp towel while you work to keep it pliable. If it gets too dry, it can become brittle and hard to work with.
- Brush Each Layer: For extra crispness, don’t skip brushing the phyllo dough with olive oil or melted butter between layers. It creates that beautiful, golden-brown crust and enhances the texture.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the cranberry filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble the cups and pop them in the oven. This is a great time-saver, especially for busy holiday meals.
- Adjust Sweetness to Your Liking: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the cranberry filling. If you like a sweeter bite, add a little extra honey or maple syrup. For a more tart flavor, reduce the sweetener slightly.
- Switch Up the Cheese: Goat cheese is creamy and tangy, but you can easily swap it for cream cheese, ricotta, or even a sharp cheddar if you prefer a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own character to the cups, so experiment to find your favorite.
- Nuts for Extra Crunch: Walnuts and pecans are the perfect choice to add texture and a bit of nutty flavor, but you can also try almonds or pistachios for a different twist. If you want to skip the nuts altogether, sunflower seeds are a great allergy-friendly option.
- Try a Savory Twist: For a more savory version, omit the sweetener in the cranberry mixture and add a pinch of salt and black pepper. You can also incorporate finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate the flavor.
By following these tips and variations, you can customize this cranberry cups recipe to suit your taste and make it the star of your Thanksgiving table. Have fun experimenting with different flavors and textures to create the perfect appetizer for your celebration!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your cranberry cups with phyllo dough and goat cheese are baked to perfection, it’s time to think about how to serve them. Here are some ideas to make your appetizer presentation as beautiful as the flavor!
- On a Festive Platter: Arrange the cranberry cups on a large platter with fresh herbs, like sprigs of rosemary or thyme, for a gorgeous holiday touch. The herbs will complement the flavors and add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
- Pair with a Wine: These cranberry cups pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir will work well, balancing the tartness of the cranberries and the creaminess of the goat cheese.
- Serve as an Appetizer or Side: These cranberry cups are versatile! Serve them as a fun appetizer at the start of your meal, or alongside your main course as a delightful side dish. They work wonderfully with a turkey dinner, adding both color and flavor.
- Garnish with Fresh Cranberries: To make your cranberry cups extra festive, garnish each one with a fresh cranberry or two before serving. The pop of color will make your dish look even more stunning.
- Perfect for Holiday Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, a Christmas dinner, or a New Year’s celebration, these cranberry cups make an impressive addition to any holiday spread. Their bite-sized nature also makes them great for passing around at cocktail parties or gatherings.
- Complement with Dips: If you want to elevate the experience even further, serve these cups with a side of tangy dipping sauce. A sweet balsamic reduction, honey mustard, or a creamy yogurt dip pairs nicely with the savory-sweet cranberry cups.
These serving suggestions will help you make the most of your cranberry cups, ensuring that your dish is both delicious and visually stunning. Enjoy sharing these flavorful bites with your loved ones at your next celebration!
Conclusion
These cranberry cups with phyllo dough and goat cheese are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making them an irresistible appetizer for your Thanksgiving or any special occasion. With their crispy, flaky crust, tangy goat cheese, and burst of cranberry sweetness, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite. Whether you serve them as a pre-dinner treat or as part of a festive spread, these little bites bring both elegance and flavor to your table.
Making these cups is easier than you might think, and with a few simple tips and variations, you can customize them to suit your taste and impress your guests. From the delicate layers of phyllo dough to the vibrant cranberry filling, every bite is a reminder of how delightful the holiday season can be.
So, gather your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy these delicious cranberry cups with your loved ones. They’re a beautiful way to celebrate the season, and I’m sure they’ll leave everyone asking for the recipe!
Happy cooking and happy holidays!
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Cranberry Recipes For Thanksgiving Cups
Ingredients
1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen section)
- Phyllo dough gives these cups their crispy flaky texture, making each bite a delightful crunch. Be sure to thaw the dough according to package instructions before use.
1 cup fresh cranberries
- Fresh cranberries add a tangy burst of flavor and vibrant color. You can also use frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available—just thaw them before using.
4 oz goat cheese
- Goat cheese provides a creamy slightly tangy base for the filling. It pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cranberries. If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, cream cheese can be used as an alternative.
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- This natural sweetener balances out the tartness of the cranberries. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking depending on how sweet or tart you prefer the filling.
1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- Orange zest adds a hint of citrusy brightness that complements the cranberries beautifully. It enhances the flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients.
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Nuts add a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor to the cups. Walnuts or pecans are perfect for this recipe but you can skip them if you have nut allergies.
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- This helps brush the phyllo dough for a golden crispy finish. If you prefer, you can use melted butter for a richer flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Phyllo Dough
- Start by carefully unrolling your thawed phyllo dough. Place a damp towel over it to keep it from drying out. Cut the phyllo dough into squares, large enough to fit into your muffin tin. You’ll need about 3-4 sheets per cup to get that lovely flaky texture.
Grease the Muffin Tin
- Lightly grease your muffin tin with olive oil or melted butter to ensure the phyllo dough doesn’t stick. You want the cups to easily pop out once they’re done baking.
Assemble the Cups
- Gently press each square of phyllo dough into the muffin tin, layering the sheets for added crunch. If you’d like, you can brush each layer lightly with olive oil or butter for extra crispness.
Make the Cranberry Filling
- In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, honey (or maple syrup), and orange zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to burst and soften. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once they’re softened, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Fill the Cups
- Spoon the cranberry mixture into each phyllo dough cup, filling them about three-quarters full. Then, crumble the goat cheese over the top of each one. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for that added crunch.
Bake the Cups
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cranberry cups for about 12-15 minutes, or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t over-brown.
Serve and Enjoy
- Let the cups cool for a few minutes before serving. These cranberry cups are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, but they also make a great make-ahead appetizer that you can reheat before your Thanksgiving meal.
Video
Notes
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Potassium: 45mg
- Vitamin A: 6% DV
- Vitamin C: 5% DV
- Calcium: 5% DV
- Iron: 2% DV
FAQs
1. Can I make these cranberry cups ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry filling a few days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the cups and bake them. For an even easier approach, you can bake the cups the day before and reheat them in the oven for about 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) before serving.
2. Can I use something other than goat cheese?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute it with cream cheese, ricotta, or a sharp cheddar. Each option will give the cranberry cups a different flavor, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
3. Can I make these cranberry cups gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Use gluten-free phyllo dough to keep these cranberry cups gluten-free. Be sure to check the ingredients on the phyllo dough package, as some may contain wheat. Additionally, double-check your sweetener to ensure it’s gluten-free.
4. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries work just fine! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using them in the filling. This will prevent excess moisture, which could affect the texture of the cups.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cranberry cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore the crispy texture of the phyllo dough.
6. Can I make these cranberry cups for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, these cranberry cups are already vegetarian-friendly! Just be mindful of the cheese options you choose, as some cheeses may contain animal rennet. Opt for a vegetarian-certified cheese if that’s a concern.
7. Can I make these cups in mini muffin tins?
Absolutely! Mini muffin tins are a great option for smaller, bite-sized cranberry cups. Just be sure to adjust the baking time to about 10-12 minutes since the cups will be smaller.
If you have any other questions or tips to share, feel free to drop them in the comments below. Happy baking!
Recipe Recap: Cranberry Cups with Phyllo Dough and Goat Cheese
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12 cups
- Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Potassium: 45mg
- Vitamin A: 6% DV
- Vitamin C: 5% DV
- Calcium: 5% DV
- Iron: 2% DV
Categorize the Recipe:
- Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Method: Baking
- Keyword: Cranberry cups, phyllo dough, goat cheese, holiday appetizers
- Skill Level: Easy
This recipe offers a simple yet elegant option for your holiday gatherings, bringing together the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with minimal effort. The phyllo dough provides a flaky, crispy base for the creamy goat cheese and tangy cranberries, making these cranberry cups an irresistible treat that will delight your guests at any celebration.