Cranberry Recipes for Thanksgiving Cups Phyllo Dough Goat Cheese

Looking for a festive and easy appetizer for Thanksgiving? These Cranberry Goat Cheese Phyllo Cups are perfect! They combine sweet cranberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy phyllo dough. Plus, they’re quick to make and look stunning on any holiday table. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and its fun history!

History of Cranberry Goat Cheese Phyllo Cups

The Origins of Phyllo Dough

Phyllo dough has ancient roots, dating back to the Ottoman Empire in modern-day Turkey. Known for its thin, flaky layers, it became a staple in Mediterranean and European cuisines. Over time, it inspired dishes like baklava and spanakopita. Today, pre-made phyllo cups make it easy to enjoy that crispy texture without the hassle.

The Story of Goat Cheese

Goat cheese has been around for over 10,000 years. It was first made in the Middle East and Europe, loved for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. Its versatility makes it a perfect pairing for sweet and savory dishes alike.

Cranberries: A Native American Treasure

Cranberries are native to North America and have been used by Indigenous peoples for food and medicine. By the 1800s, they became a Thanksgiving staple due to their seasonal harvest and vibrant flavor. Combining these three ingredients creates a modern, bite-sized treat that’s both delicious and meaningful.

A Fusion of Cultures

This recipe is a beautiful fusion of traditions. It blends Middle Eastern (phyllo), European (goat cheese), and North American (cranberries) ingredients, reflecting the global nature of modern cooking. It’s a celebration of how food can bring cultures together.

Thanksgiving and Holiday Significance

During Thanksgiving, Cranberry Goat Cheese Phyllo Cups hold special significance. They honor the seasonal harvest and the tradition of sharing food with loved ones. The sweet-tart cranberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy phyllo symbolize the balance of flavors and textures that make holiday meals so memorable.

Why This Recipe Matters

This dish is more than just an appetizer—it’s a story on a plate. It connects us to ancient traditions while fitting perfectly into modern holiday celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a big Thanksgiving dinner or a cozy gathering, these cups are sure to impress.

Fun Facts About Cranberry Goat Cheese Phyllo Cups

1. A Modern Twist on Ancient Flavors

Did you know this recipe is a perfect example of fusion cuisine? It combines ingredients from three different parts of the world:

Phyllo dough from the Middle East,
Goat cheese from Europe, and
Cranberries from North America.
This mix of flavors and textures shows how food traditions evolve over time, creating something new and exciting.

2. Bite-Sized Elegance

These cups are not just delicious—they’re also party-perfect! Their small size makes them easy to eat while mingling, and their elegant look adds a touch of sophistication to any holiday table. Plus, they’re so easy to make that you’ll have more time to enjoy the festivities!

You Can learn more about this Recipe on this Website

Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 5 mins

Total Time 15 mins

Cooking Method: Baking

Cuisine: American, Fusion

Courses: Appetizer, Snack

Difficulty: Beginner

Cooking Temp: 175 C

Servings: 15

Estimated Cost: $ 13

Calories: 50 kcal per cup

Best Season: Winter, Fall

Dietary: Gluten-Free (optional), Nut-Free (optional), Vegetarian

Description

These Cranberry Goat Cheese Phyllo Cups are the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy. Filled with creamy goat cheese, dried cranberries, and a hint of honey, they’re an elegant and easy-to-make appetizer for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering.

Ingredients

15 pcs. 15-30 Phyllo cups (pre-made)
4 oz. Goat cheese, softened
2 tbsp. Cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup Dried cranberries, finely chopped
2 tbsp. Honey (plus extra for drizzling)
1/4 cup Pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup Cranberry sauce (optional, for topping)
1 tsp. Fresh thyme or rosemary (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven (if needed):

1
If your phyllo cups are not pre-baked, preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
2
Place the phyllo cups on a baking sheet and bake for 3-5 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Let them cool completely.

Prepare the Filling:

3
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese and cream cheese. Use a fork or hand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.
4
Add 2 tablespoons of honey and mix well. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
5
Fold in the finely chopped dried cranberries and chopped nuts (if using). Stir until evenly distributed.

Assemble the Phyllo Cups:

6
Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each phyllo cup with the goat cheese mixture, filling just below the rim.
7
If desired, top each cup with a small dollop of cranberry sauce for extra flavor and a festive touch.

Garnish:

8
Drizzle a small amount of honey over the filled cups for a touch of sweetness.
9
Sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

Serve:

10
Arrange the phyllo cups on a serving platter.
11
Serve immediately at room temperature.

Tips for Success:

12
Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the cups just before serving to keep the phyllo crisp.
13
Customize: Add a pinch of orange zest to the filling for a citrusy twist, or swap dried cranberries for fresh cranberry relish.
14
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free phyllo cups if needed.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 15

Amount Per Serving
Calories 50kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 3g5%
Saturated Fat 1.5g8%
Cholesterol 5mg2%
Total Carbohydrate 5g2%
Dietary Fiber 0.3g2%
Sugars 3g
Protein 1.5g3%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: Thanksgiving appetizers, cranberry goat cheese, phyllo cups, holiday snacks, easy party food

Read it online: https://aroundrecipe.com/recipe/cranberry-recipes-for-thanksgiving-cups-phyllo-dough-goat-cheese/

Samantha Doe

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I'm Samantha, a full-time food blogger, mother of 2 beautiful daughters and a lovely wife. I live in New Jersey with my family. Loves traveling, sharing new recipes, and spending time with my family.