Looking for a show-stopping appetizer for your Thanksgiving table? These Cranberry Phyllo Cups with Goat Cheese are the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
Crispy phyllo dough cups are filled with creamy goat cheese and topped with a vibrant cranberry sauce, creating a bite-sized treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Easy to make and impossible to resist, these cups will be the star of your holiday spread. Let’s get cooking!
Cranberry Recipes For Thanksgiving Cups Phyllo Dough Goat Cheese
Recipe by Chef Sadat KhizarCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy12
servings15
minutes30
minutes150
kcalIngredients
12 sheets of phyllo dough
4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
1 cup fresh cranberries
2 tbsp sugar
Walnuts
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp butter, melted
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Set the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. To make cleanup easier, line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper.
- Fill every shell: After taking the phyllo cups out of the box, place them on the parchment paper pan. First, insert one teaspoon of goat cheese into the phyllo cup’s button. Then top the goat cheese with 1/16 teaspoon of the thyme leaves. Next, sprinkle the thyme with ½ teaspoon of the walnuts. Finally, cover the walnuts with ½ teaspoon of the preserves. Lastly, sprinkle the preserves with sugar (I used 1/8 teaspoon).
- Cook the fillo cup for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the filo appetizer is crisp and golden. Take the cups out of the oven and let them rest on the pan for two to three minutes.
- Serve: Place the filo appetizers on a dish for serving. If using, garnish with additional fresh thyme and a honey drizzle. Savor the phyllo cup appetizers right away.
Recipe Video
Serving Suggestions
Arrange these phyllo cups on a platter garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs or thyme for a festive touch. Pair them with other holiday appetizers like stuffed mushrooms, charcuterie boards, or roasted nuts. They’re also great alongside a glass of sparkling wine or cider for a celebratory toast. Serve them warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover phyllo cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. The phyllo cups are best enjoyed fresh but can be assembled a few hours ahead and baked just before serving.

FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
A: Yes, store-bought cranberry sauce works well if you’re short on time. Opt for a high-quality brand or a homemade-style sauce for the best flavor.
Q: Can I make these cups ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the components (cranberry sauce and phyllo cups) a day in advance and assemble them just before baking.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Yes! Cream cheese, brie, or feta would work well as substitutes for goat cheese.
Q: Are these cups gluten-free?
A: Phyllo dough contains gluten, but you can use gluten-free phyllo or tart shells if needed.
Q: Can I add nuts or herbs to the filling?
A: Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or a sprinkle of fresh thyme would add great texture and flavor.


