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These Christmas party appetizers offer everything you want in a festive bite—crisp phyllo shells, creamy herbed cheese, and succulent shrimp all finished with colorful toppings. I discovered this combination during a bustling December gathering years ago and have served them ever since. They are quick to prep, crowd-pleasing, and bring a beautiful pop of holiday flair to your spread.
These have earned a permanent spot on my winter party menu ever since a cousin tried three in a row and begged for the recipe. They truly disappear quickly at every single celebration.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: peeled and deveined for sweet delicate flavor and texture
- Cream cheese: softened for a rich creamy base and blends easily
- Fresh dill: chopped delivering fresh herby flavor and bright green color
- Lemon juice: boosts tang and keeps the cream cheese light
- Mini phyllo cups: ready-made for perfect crunch use from freezer section for best quality
- Cherry tomatoes: halved add juicy color and freshness
- Olives: sliced for savory salty bite try Kalamata for best depth
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Bring your oven up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit this way your appetizers cook evenly and the shrimp reach perfect doneness with crispy shells
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl blend cream cheese with dill and lemon juice using a hand mixer for the smoothest result ensure everything is evenly mixed and airy for the best bite
- Fill the Phyllo Cups:
- Spoon the herbed cream cheese mixture generously into each mini phyllo cup pressing into all corners so every bite holds plenty of filling
- Top with Shrimp:
- Place one shrimp over the cream cheese in each cup press gently so it sits securely shrimp should curve slightly to fit and not overhang
- Bake:
- Arrange filled cups on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until shrimp turns pink and cups are golden edges should look crisp and smell toasty
- Garnish:
- Once out of the oven add half a cherry tomato and a slice of olive to the top of each appetizer for a burst of color and flavor always garnish while the cups are still warm for best presentation
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I absolutely love the contrast of creamy filling with warm crisp phyllo. Dill is my secret weapon ingredient here. When my mom helped me prep these for her cookie exchange, she declared them the holiday MVP and took a tray home. Moments like that make this dish extra special to me.
Storage Tips
Store cooled appetizers in a single layer inside an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best taste and crunch, reheat in the oven not the microwave. If making ahead, prepare all elements individually and assemble and bake right before serving to keep everything crisp.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap shrimp for cooked crab or even diced roasted chicken for a heartier option. For vegetarian guests, sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers are delicious substitutes. When choosing cream cheese, feel free to use a whipped or light variety for a softer blend.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these appetizers on a platter with sprigs of fresh dill for extra green flair. They pair perfectly with a sparkling wine or spiced cider and make a pretty centerpiece for any holiday buffet. If you want more variety, set out bowls of extra olives and cherry tomatoes for nibbling.
Cultural and Holiday Context
Small bites like these phyllo cups are a staple at European holiday gatherings and cocktail parties. The Mediterranean flavors of dill, lemon, and olive bring an international twist to the Christmas party table. Little elegant hors d’oeuvres like these always remind me of the cheerful clinking of glasses and warm holiday laughter.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can these appetizer bites be prepared ahead?
Yes! You can mix the cream cheese filling a day in advance. Assemble and bake fresh for best results.
- → What alternatives work instead of shrimp?
Try cooked chicken, crab, or sautéed mushrooms in place of shrimp—just make sure your protein is fully cooked.
- → Are these bites gluten-free?
They can be if you choose gluten-free phyllo cups. Always check product labels to be certain.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for five to seven minutes.
- → Can I customize the toppings?
Absolutely! Garnish with your favorite herbs or vegetables, or add a touch of heat with hot sauce if desired.