Get ready to transform your appetizer game with these mind-blowing Cheesy Sesame Phyllo Bites that are about to become the star of every gathering! Imagine crispy, golden phyllo layers hugging a molten cheese center, sprinkled with nutty sesame seeds that add an unexpected crunch. These delicate, elegant bites are not just a snack – they're a culinary experience that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated cocktail party or looking for a show-stopping appetizer, these Middle Eastern-inspired treats are your ticket to instant culinary fame!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package phyllo dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your phyllo bites cook evenly and become crispy.
- Gather all your ingredients: phyllo dough, shredded mozzarella cheese, crumbled feta cheese, sesame seeds, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Make sure the phyllo dough is thawed if it was frozen.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, crumbled feta cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the cheeses are evenly distributed.
- Take the package of phyllo dough and carefully unroll it on a clean, dry surface. Cover the phyllo sheets with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while you work.
- Take one sheet of phyllo dough and brush it lightly with melted butter using a pastry brush. Layer another sheet on top and brush it again with melted butter. Repeat this process until you have 3 layers of phyllo dough.
- Cut the stacked phyllo dough into squares, approximately 4x4 inches in size. You should be able to get about 6 squares from each layered sheet.
- Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each phyllo square. Be careful not to overfill, as this may cause the bites to burst during baking.
- Fold the corners of the phyllo square over the filling to create a triangle shape. Pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside. You can also brush the top with a little more melted butter for extra crispiness.
- Place the assembled phyllo bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each bite for even cooking.
- Sprinkle the tops of the phyllo bites with sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
- Once baked, remove the phyllo bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Sesame Phyllo Bites warm as an appetizer or snack!
Tips
- Phyllo Dough Handling: Always keep your phyllo sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out. Work quickly and carefully to maintain their delicate texture.
- Butter is Your Friend: Don't skimp on brushing each layer with melted butter. This ensures a crispy, golden exterior that's absolutely irresistible.
- Cheese Mixing Hack: Mix your cheeses thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly. Room temperature cheese blends more smoothly.
- Avoid Overfilling: Less is more when it comes to the cheese filling. Too much can cause the phyllo to burst during baking.
- Sesame Seed Pro Tip: Toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before sprinkling for an enhanced nutty flavor.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare these bites in advance and freeze them uncooked. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately after baking for maximum crispiness. If they cool down, a quick 2-3 minute reheat in the oven will restore their crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
