Crispy Feta and Hot Honey Phyllo Cups Recipe
Introduction
Crispy feta and hot honey phyllo cups are a delightful combination of salty, sweet, and spicy flavors wrapped in a crunchy shell. These bite-sized treats make perfect appetizers for gatherings or a quick snack that impresses. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have an elegant dish ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 24 mini phyllo cups
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the mini phyllo cups evenly on a baking sheet.
- Step 2: Fill each phyllo cup with crumbled feta cheese, making sure they are evenly distributed.
- Step 3: Bake the filled cups for 8-10 minutes until the feta softens and the edges of the phyllo turn golden and crispy.
- Step 4: While the phyllo cups bake, mix the honey and red pepper flakes together in a small bowl to create the hot honey drizzle.
- Step 5: Remove the baked cups from the oven and drizzle the hot honey evenly over them.
- Step 6: If using, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top for a fragrant garnish, then serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder spice, reduce the red pepper flakes or substitute with smoked paprika for a different flavor.
- Add chopped walnuts or pistachios on top for extra crunch and richness.
- Use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture.
- Serve these cups with a side of olives or roasted vegetables to round out an appetizer platter.
Storage
Store any leftover phyllo cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain crispness. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated and reheat briefly in the oven at 325°F (160°C) to restore crunch before serving. Avoid storing with the honey drizzle on to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these phyllo cups ahead of time?
You can prepare and bake the feta-filled cups ahead, but add the hot honey drizzle and thyme garnish just before serving to keep them crisp and fresh.
What can I use if I don’t have mini phyllo cups?
If mini phyllo cups aren’t available, you can shape phyllo sheets into small cups or use pre-baked tart shells as an alternative base.
PrintCrispy Feta and Hot Honey Phyllo Cups Recipe
These crispy feta and hot honey phyllo cups offer a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and spicy flavors wrapped in a crunchy phyllo shell. Ideal as a flavorful appetizer or party snack, they are quick to prepare and deliver an impressive combination of textures and tastes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini phyllo cups 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Phyllo Cups
- 24 mini phyllo cups
Filling
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Topping
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for crisping the phyllo cups and softening the feta cheese.
- Arrange Phyllo Cups: Place the 24 mini phyllo cups evenly spaced on a baking sheet, ready to be filled and baked.
- Fill with Feta Cheese: Spoon crumbled feta cheese into each phyllo cup, filling them generously but without overstuffing to allow even baking.
- Bake Phyllo Cups: Bake the filled cups in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the feta cheese softens and the edges of the phyllo cups turn a beautiful golden brown and become crispy.
- Prepare Hot Honey: While the phyllo cups are baking, combine 2 tablespoons of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes in a small bowl, stirring well to infuse a spicy kick into the sweet honey.
- Drizzle Hot Honey: Once baked, remove the phyllo cups from the oven and immediately drizzle the spicy hot honey evenly over each cup, allowing the warmth to meld flavors perfectly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top if desired for a fragrant herbal note. Serve the phyllo cups warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes in the hot honey to suit your preferred spice level.
- Fresh thyme is optional but adds a delightful aroma and flavor contrast.
- These phyllo cups are best served warm for maximum crispiness but can be enjoyed at room temperature.
- To make ahead, prepare the phyllo cups with feta and refrigerate; bake and add hot honey just before serving.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute feta with a vegan cheese alternative.
Keywords: phyllo cups, feta cheese, hot honey, spicy honey, appetizer, party snack, Mediterranean appetizer, easy phyllo recipe
