Baked Brie and Fig Jam Phyllo Cups – A Delicious Starter for Any Occasion
If you're looking for a starter or appetizer that's both elegant and incredibly easy to make, look no further than these baked brie and fig jam phyllo cups. Combining savoury, creamy brie with sweet fig jam, all encased in crispy phyllo pastry, they are the perfect bite-sized treat. Best of all, they can be done in an air fryer, making it a quick and straightforward recipe for any cook.
Why Phyllo Cups?
Phyllo dough is a versatile pastry that results in a satisfyingly crisp texture when baked. These pre-made phyllo cups serve as perfect vessels for creamy cheese and rich jam, offering an elegant touch to simple ingredients. The combination of textures and flavours is truly delightful, with minimal effort required.
What You Need
- 12 pre-made phyllo cups (available in most supermarkets under frozen pastry section)
- 150g brie cheese, cut into small cubes
- 6 tablespoons fig jam
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (optional, for some added crunch)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Steps to Prepare
Here’s how you can make this delightful recipe using an air fryer:
- Prepare the Phyllo Cups: Take out the phyllo cups from the freezer and let them thaw for about 10 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Place a cube of brie in each cup. Make sure they fit snugly without being too large for the cup.
- Layer with Fig Jam: Add half a tablespoon of fig jam over the brie in each cup. The sweetness of the jam pairs delightfully with the creamy cheese.
- Optional Walnut Topper: If using walnuts, sprinkle a small amount over each cup for added crunch and a slight nutty flavour.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 180°C and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.
- Air Fry the Cups: Carefully place the filled phyllo cups into the air fryer basket. Cook them at 180°C for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the phyllo is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from air fryer and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs. Serve warm for the best flavour experience.
Tips for Best Results
- Use Quality Brie: Opt for a high-quality, creamy brie as it is the star of the dish. The creaminess and richness of a good brie are what make these cups so delicious.
- Fresh Fig Jam: If available, use homemade or freshly bought fig jam for the fullest flavour. The jam should be thick and sweet to complement the brie.
- Alternative Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different jams or preserves, such as raspberry or apricot, to suit different tastes and preferences.
- Serve Immediately: These cups taste best when served right out of the air fryer. The phyllo pastry remains crisp, while the inside stays warm and gooey.
Nutritional Information
While these phyllo cups are a delightful treat, it's essential to enjoy them in moderation. Here's a rough nutritional breakdown for one phyllo cup:
- Calories: Approximately 80 kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Conclusion
This baked brie and fig jam phyllo cup recipe is a delight, perfect for gatherings, parties, or even a cozy night at home. Easy to make and simply delicious, it's sure to impress your family and friends. By using an air fryer, you get perfectly crisp and golden pastry, melted brie, and the wonderful sweetness of fig jam all in one bite.