Goat Cheese and Honey Bites Recipe

Introduction

These Goat Cheese and Honey Bites are a delightful blend of creamy, tangy cheese and sweet honey, perfect for entertaining or a simple appetizer. With crunchy toasted nuts and flaky phyllo cups, they offer a beautiful balance of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces goat cheese (softened)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as thyme, parsley, or chives, finely chopped)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 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

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, fresh herbs, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
3. Step 3: Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture evenly into the mini phyllo cups.
4. Step 4: Place the filled cups onto a baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until they are warmed through and the edges are lightly golden.
5. Step 5: Remove from the oven and top each bite with toasted nuts and a drizzle of honey. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
6. Step 6: Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra touch of flavor, try using different herbs like basil or oregano depending on your preference.
• Substitute the nuts with pistachios or almonds to change up the crunch.
• If you prefer a milder cheese flavor, reduce the goat cheese and increase the cream cheese slightly.
• Drizzle the honey just before serving to keep the bites from becoming soggy.

Storage

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes or until warm. Avoid microwaving to maintain the phyllo crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bites a few hours ahead and refrigerate them unbaked. Bake just before serving to keep the phyllo cups crisp.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Soft cheeses like ricotta or mascarpone can be used, but they will change the flavor profile. The tanginess of goat cheese pairs best with the honey and herbs.

Goat Cheese and Honey Bites Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 139 reviews

These Goat Cheese and Honey Bites are delightful, creamy appetizers featuring a smooth blend of goat and cream cheese mixed with fresh herbs, nestled in crispy mini phyllo cups. Finished with toasted nuts and a drizzle of sweet honey, they make a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors for any party or gathering.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 24 bites 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Goat Cheese Mixture

• 8 ounces goat cheese, softened
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as thyme, parsley, or chives), finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Additional Ingredients

• 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

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature while you prepare the cheese mixture.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, chopped fresh herbs, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
3. Fill the Phyllo Cups: Using a spoon or piping bag, evenly distribute the cheese mixture into each of the mini phyllo cups, making sure they are nicely filled but not overflowing.
4. Bake: Place the filled phyllo cups on a baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, until the cheese filling is warmed through and the edges of the phyllo cups are lightly golden and crisp.
5. Finish and Serve: Remove the bites from the oven, then immediately top each with toasted nuts and a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired. Serve these bites warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Softening the cheeses beforehand is key for an easy blend and smooth texture.
• To toast nuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Phyllo cups are delicate; handle them gently to avoid cracking.
• These bites can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
• For a nut-free version, omit the nuts and increase the honey drizzle slightly.
• Serve with a light white wine or sparkling beverage to complement the creamy and sweet flavors.

Keywords: goat cheese bites, honey appetizers, phyllo cup appetizers, easy party snacks, creamy cheese bites, herb cheese bites