Description
These Goat Cheese and Honey Bites are delightful, creamy appetizers perfect for parties or special occasions. Soft goat cheese and cream cheese are blended with fresh herbs and black pepper, then baked in crunchy mini phyllo cups. Topped with toasted nuts and a drizzle of honey, these bites offer a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, making them an irresistible Mediterranean-American fusion snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or chives), finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings & Assembly
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup honey, plus extra for drizzling
- 24 mini phyllo cups (store-bought)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the bites.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the softened goat cheese and cream cheese with the finely chopped fresh herbs and black pepper until smooth and evenly combined.
- Fill Phyllo Cups: Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture evenly into each of the 24 mini phyllo cups, filling them carefully without overstuffing.
- Bake: Place the filled phyllo cups on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the bites are warmed through and the phyllo cups turn lightly golden.
- Add Toppings: Remove the bites from the oven and immediately sprinkle each with toasted chopped nuts, then drizzle with honey to add sweetness and texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish each bite with a fresh thyme sprig for extra aroma and presentation. Serve these delicious bites warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Notes
- Prepare ahead by filling the phyllo cups with the cheese mixture and refrigerating them. Bake just before serving to save time.
- For variety, substitute walnuts with pistachios or almonds to change the nutty flavor profile.
- A touch of balsamic glaze pairs beautifully with honey for a tangy contrast if desired.
