Description
These elegant Pomegranate and Goat Cheese Phyllo Bites are a perfect appetizer combining the creamy tanginess of goat cheese with the burst of juicy pomegranate arils, all nestled in crispy, golden phyllo shells and subtly sweetened with honey and fresh thyme. Ready in just under 20 minutes, they make a sophisticated yet easy-to-prepare treat for any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Phyllo Shells and Cheese
- 12 frozen phyllo shells
- 4 tablespoons goat cheese (chèvre)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup pomegranate arils
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the phyllo bites.
- Assemble the Phyllo Cups: Place about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese into each frozen phyllo shell. Sprinkle a small pinch of fresh thyme on top, and then drizzle approximately 1/8 teaspoon of honey over each cup to add sweetness and fragrance.
- Bake: Arrange the filled phyllo cups on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them in the preheated oven for 6-7 minutes until the cheese is warmed through and the phyllo shells turn slightly golden and crisp.
- Add Pomegranate: Remove the baked cups from the oven. Immediately top each one with an extra pinch of fresh thyme and about 1 teaspoon of pomegranate arils to provide a fresh, juicy contrast to the warm cheese.
- Serve: Serve these delightful bites warm or at room temperature as a sophisticated appetizer or party snack.
Notes
- Use frozen phyllo shells for convenience, thawing them according to package instructions before assembling.
- Fresh thyme can be adjusted based on taste preference; dried thyme is not recommended as it won’t provide the same fresh aroma.
- These bites are best enjoyed the day they are baked for optimal crispness of the phyllo shells.
- For a vegan alternative, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based soft cheese.
- Handle phyllo shells gently as they are delicate and can crack easily.
