Celebrate the magic of Christmas with a delightful and mouthwatering appetizer that combines the nutty richness of toasted Gruyere cheese with the sweet tang of cranberries. These Toasted Gruyere and Cranberry Cups are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect addition to your holiday spread. Whether you’re hosting a grand family feast or a cozy gathering with friends, these savory cups will undoubtedly add a touch of gourmet elegance to your Christmas celebrations.
Recipe
Ingredients:
One 10-ounce bag frozen or fresh cranberries
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon orange zest plus 1/4 cup orange juice
4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 cup grated Gruyere or Fontina cheese
48 frozen pre-baked phyllo cups or hors d’oeuvre cups
2 tablespoons chopped chives
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment.
Mix the cranberries, sugar and orange zest and juice in a small saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook until the cranberries soften and start to burst, 8 to 10 minutes. Set aside.
Combine the cream cheese and Gruyere in a large bowl with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until smooth.
Place the phyllo cups on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cranberry sauce into each cup. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cheese mixture on top of the cranberry sauce. Bake until the cups are crisp and the cheese is melted and bubbling, 8 minutes. Sprinkle with chives before serving.
You can also substitute cranberry sauce for your favorite jelly or jam.
These Toasted Gruyere and Cranberry Cups are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, and they will undoubtedly become a cherished addition to your Christmas traditions. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors, and let the warmth of the holiday season fill your hearts and homes. Merry Christmas!
** This is one of my personal favorites.