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These crispy feta and hot honey phyllo cups are a perfect appetizer for when you want something quick yet impressive. They combine salty tangy feta with sweet spicy honey in a crunchy little package that always gets a thumbs up from guests and family alike.
I whipped this up on a busy weeknight with leftover feta and it instantly became my go to for easy snacks or party bites.
Ingredients
- Mini phyllo cups: provide a crispy base for the filling look for ones that are fresh and not broken for best texture
- Feta cheese: adds creamy salty flavor opt for a good quality crumbly block style feta for depth
- Honey: brings a sweet contrast choose raw or mild flavored honey so it does not overpower the feta
- Red pepper flakes: give a subtle spicy heat adjust according to your preference
- Olive oil: is optional but adds a nice richness when drizzled over the cups
- Fresh thyme leaves: offer a herbal brightness use fresh if available this can be omitted or swapped with another fresh herb like oregano
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius so it is ready when you fill the cups. This temperature crisps the phyllo without drying out the cheese.
- Arrange Phyllo Cups:
- Place the 24 mini phyllo cups evenly spaced on a baking sheet. Make sure they stand upright and are not overlapping to cook evenly.
- Fill with Feta:
- Crumble about one cup of feta cheese and spoon a small generous amount into each phyllo cup. The feta will soften and slightly melt during baking.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Put the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch closely for the edges to turn golden and the cheese to soften but not brown.
- Prepare Hot Honey:
- While baking, combine 2 tablespoons of honey with half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Stir well to infuse the heat into the honey.
- Drizzle Honey Over Cups:
- Once the cups come out of the oven, carefully drizzle the hot honey mixture over each one. This adds a sticky sweet spicy glaze that pairs perfectly with the salty feta.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Finish by sprinkling fresh thyme leaves over the top if using. Serve warm and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor balance.
I love how the spicy honey melts into the feta and the cool fresh thyme adds a surprising pop. This recipe reminds me of lively family gatherings where the food was simple but packed with flavor and joy.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days but note the phyllo cups lose their crispness. Reheat briefly in a toaster oven to bring back some crunch.
Ingredient Swaps
Try swapping the feta with goat cheese for a creamier texture or halloumi for a firmer bite. Swap thyme for rosemary or oregano to change the herbal notes depending on what you have on hand. Use agave or maple syrup instead of honey to make it vegan friendly or reduce the sweetness.
Serving Ideas
Serve these as an elegant appetizer with a crisp white wine or light cocktail. Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a simple light meal. Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios on top for extra crunch and flavor.
This recipe highlights the perfect harmony of textures and flavors in a quick appetizer.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I prepare the phyllo cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the cups with feta and store them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking to keep them fresh.
- → What can I use instead of red pepper flakes?
For less heat, try substituting smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper according to your preference.
- → Is fresh thyme necessary in this dish?
Fresh thyme adds a subtle herbal lift but can be omitted if unavailable without losing much flavor.
- → How do I achieve crispier phyllo cups?
Make sure the oven is fully preheated and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet for even crisping.
- → Can I substitute feta with another cheese?
Soft cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta work well if you prefer a milder flavor and creamy texture.