When it comes to entertaining, I’m always on the hunt for appetizers that feel fancy but require minimal effort. If you’re anything like me, you want something that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and doesn’t require spending hours in the kitchen. Enter Bourbon Pecan Brie Bites—the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and buttery flavors, all packed into a delightful bite-sized treat.
These little beauties come together in just 15 minutes, making them the ultimate party appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a dinner party, or just indulging in a night of wine and cheese, these phyllo cup brie bites are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? They’re made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients, and they bake up beautifully in no time.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- Effortless elegance – They look and taste gourmet but require minimal prep.
- Quick to make – 15 minutes from start to finish!
- The perfect balance of flavors – Buttery phyllo, creamy brie, nutty pecans, and a hint of bourbon caramelization.
- Great for any occasion – From casual gatherings to fancy cocktail parties.
If you love recipes that bring big flavors with little effort, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making these delicious Bourbon Pecan Brie Bites.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
Before we start, let’s gather everything you need:
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar – Adds a deep caramel-like sweetness.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – Helps create a rich, gooey bourbon pecan topping.
- 1 tbsp bourbon – Brings warmth and enhances the pecan flavor.
- ¼ cup roasted, chopped pecans – Gives the perfect crunch and nutty contrast.
- 8 oz round of brie cheese – Creamy and mild, it melts beautifully in the phyllo shells.
- 1.9 oz package of frozen mini phyllo shells (about 15 shells) – Pre-baked and ready to use, they add a buttery, crisp texture.
STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN
First things first, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows it to reach the right temperature while you prepare everything else. Since these bites cook quickly, we want an even, moderate heat to melt the brie and caramelize the topping without burning the phyllo.
STEP 2: MAKE THE BOURBON PECAN MIXTURE
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, bourbon, and chopped pecans. Stir until everything is well combined. This mixture is what gives these brie bites their signature rich, caramelized, and slightly boozy flavor.
Pro Tip: If you want an alcohol-free version, simply swap the bourbon for vanilla extract or maple syrup. Both will still give you a warm, sweet depth of flavor!
STEP 3: PREP THE BRIE
Brie is known for its soft, creamy texture and mild flavor, but it also has a rind that some people prefer to remove. While the rind is completely edible, in this recipe, we’re going for pure creaminess, so it’s best to trim it off.
- Use a sharp knife to carefully slice off the top and sides of the rind.
- Cut the brie into ¼-inch cubes, one for each phyllo shell.
Shortcut: If you don’t mind the rind, you can leave it on—it melts down just fine in the oven!
STEP 4: ASSEMBLE THE BRIE BITES
Now, it’s time to put it all together!
- Place the mini phyllo shells on a baking sheet.
- Drop one cube of brie into each shell.
- Spoon about ½ teaspoon of the bourbon pecan mixture on top of each brie cube.
The combination of the creamy cheese and sweet, buttery pecan topping is what makes these bites irresistible.
Pro Tip: If you want an extra crunch, sprinkle a tiny bit of flaky sea salt on top before baking. It enhances all the flavors!
