Rustic Phyllo Cheese Nests (Printable)

Golden phyllo nests paired with rustic farmhouse cheeses, thyme, and a hint of honey for a charming appetizer.

# Ingredient List:

→ Phyllo Hay

01 - 7 oz shredded phyllo dough (kataifi)
02 - 3.5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1 tsp olive oil
04 - Pinch of sea salt

→ Cheeses

05 - 7 oz farmhouse cheddar, cut into rustic hunks
06 - 5.3 oz aged gouda, cut into rustic hunks
07 - 5.3 oz tomme de Savoie or other semi-soft farmhouse cheese, cut into rustic hunks

→ Garnishes

08 - Fresh thyme sprigs
09 - Honey for drizzling
10 - Cracked black pepper

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
02 - Gently separate the shredded phyllo dough and place it in a mixing bowl. Drizzle melted butter, olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt over the dough, then toss gently to ensure even coating.
03 - Shape small nests approximately 2 to 2.5 inches wide on a parchment-lined baking sheet, pressing lightly to maintain their form.
04 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temperature.
05 - Arrange the cooled nests on a serving board and top each with a rustic hunk of farmhouse cheese.
06 - Decorate with fresh thyme sprigs, drizzle with honey if desired, and finish with cracked black pepper before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The phyllo gets impossibly crispy and shatters in your mouth like the most delicate hay you've ever tasted.
  • It looks impressive and takes barely thirty minutes, so you can spend more time with guests instead of fussing in the kitchen.
02 -
  • The phyllo must be completely cool before you add the cheese, or the residual heat will wilt the thyme and soften the crispness you worked for.
  • Don't be tempted to make these ahead and assemble hours before serving—they're best enjoyed within an hour of coming out of the oven when the contrast between crispy and creamy is still dramatic.
03 -
  • Buy your phyllo from places with high turnover like Greek or Middle Eastern markets—fresher dough separates more easily and bakes up crispier.
  • Don't toss the phyllo aggressively; gentle handling keeps the strands intact and contributes to that delicate, shatter-like texture you're after.
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