These Pineapple Cranberry Cream Cheese Party Cups deliver a burst of tropical sweetness wrapped in a crisp, delicate phyllo shell. Each bite blends creamy richness, fruity brightness, and a hint of warm spice making them the kind of party treat that disappears faster than you can set the tray down. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, summer cookout, or casual get-together, these no-bake delights bring color, flavor, and effortless elegance to any table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 package mini phyllo cups (15 cups)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crushed pineapple, chopped dried cranberries, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
- Spoon the creamy filling into each mini phyllo cup, filling them generously to the top.
- Arrange the filled cups neatly on a serving platter and optionally top each with a fresh mint leaf for a bright, fresh pop of color.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm slightly.
- Serve cold and watch these little tropical gems vanish at your next gathering!
Variation
- Swap the Fruit: Try replacing the pineapple with mango or mandarin oranges for a slightly different tropical twist. Each brings its own level of sweetness and acidity, giving the cups a new personality while keeping the refreshing island vibe.
- Add Crunch: Mix in a tablespoon of chopped nuts such as pecans or macadamia nuts into the filling for an added layer of crunch and richness. They contrast beautifully with the creamy filling and crisp phyllo shell.
- Make It a Dessert Bar: Offer multiple flavor blends by creating batches with different mix-ins, like mini chocolate chips, chopped apricots, or coconut flakes. It’s an easy way to give guests fun flavor options without additional prep work.
Cooking Notes
- Be sure to drain the pineapple well excess juice can make the cream cheese mixture runny and soften the crisp phyllo cups.
- Mini phyllo cups can be found in the freezer section; thaw them fully before filling to maintain their delicate crunch.
- These cups are best enjoyed the same day they’re assembled to preserve the crispness of the shells.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Appetizer Spread: Add these cups to a holiday dessert or appetizer board alongside fresh berries, chocolates, and nuts to create an inviting and colorful display.
- Brunch Treat: Serve them with pastries, quiche, and fresh fruit at brunch. Their bright, creamy flavor pairs beautifully with coffee or a light mimosa.
- Outdoor Gatherings: These cups hold up wonderfully for picnics or outdoor parties when kept chilled. Their bite-sized form makes them perfect for guests to enjoy while mingling.
Tips
- Soften the Cream Cheese Properly: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for at least 20–30 minutes. This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling that blends effortlessly.
- Chop the Cranberries Finely: Smaller pieces distribute more evenly throughout the filling, ensuring a burst of tart sweetness in every bite.
- Chill Before Serving: Don’t skip the chilling step this helps the flavors meld and slightly firms the filling, making the cups easier to eat neatly.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: ~1 g
- Sodium: ~65 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Fill the phyllo cups shortly before serving to keep them crisp. - Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Dried works best for texture and sweetness, but finely chopped fresh cranberries can be used if sweetened slightly to reduce tartness. - Are these cups freezer-friendly?
The filling can be frozen, but the assembled cups are not recommended for freezing, as the phyllo shells will soften. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes use dairy-free cream cheese and ensure your phyllo cups are vegan-friendly. The fruit ingredients are naturally vegan.
Conclusion
These Pineapple Cranberry Cream Cheese Party Cups are vibrant, creamy, effortless, and endlessly crowd-pleasing. With their tropical sweetness and charming presentation, they elevate any gathering whether it’s a festive holiday party or a warm-weather potluck. Simple to prepare yet undeniably delicious, they’re the kind of treat you’ll find yourself making again and again.
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Pineapple Cranberry Cream Cheese Party Cups
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 15 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pineapple Cranberry Cream Cheese Party Cups deliver a burst of tropical sweetness wrapped in a crisp, delicate phyllo shell. Each bite blends creamy richness, fruity brightness, and a hint of warm spice making them the kind of party treat that disappears faster than you can set the tray down. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, summer cookout, or casual get-together, these no-bake delights bring color, flavor, and effortless elegance to any table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 package mini phyllo cups (15 cups)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crushed pineapple, chopped dried cranberries, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
- Spoon the creamy filling into each mini phyllo cup, filling them generously to the top.
- Arrange the filled cups neatly on a serving platter and optionally top each with a fresh mint leaf for a bright, fresh pop of color.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm slightly.
- Serve cold and watch these little tropical gems vanish at your next gathering!
Notes
- Be sure to drain the pineapple well excess juice can make the cream cheese mixture runny and soften the crisp phyllo cups.
- Mini phyllo cups can be found in the freezer section; thaw them fully before filling to maintain their delicate crunch.
- These cups are best enjoyed the same day they’re assembled to preserve the crispness of the shells.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American / Tropical-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 filled phyllo cup
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: ~9 g
- Sodium: ~65 mg
- Fat: ~7 g
- Saturated Fat: ~4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: ~13 g
- Fiber: ~1 g
- Protein: ~1 g
- Cholesterol: ~18 mg
Keywords: pineapple cranberry cups, cream cheese cups, phyllo dessert bites, no-bake party cups, tropical appetizer