I’m excited to share this elegant, simple appetizer where roasted grapes, creamy blue cheese, and toasted walnuts come together in crisp mini cups. I love how effortless they are to assemble while still feeling special enough for any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it blends sweet, savory, and crunchy elements in one bite. The roasted grapes become soft and jammy, the blue cheese adds richness, and the walnuts give a perfect crunch. Everything comes together quickly, making it ideal for entertaining or for a beautiful snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
In a skillet over medium-high heat, I warm the olive oil and add the grapes and thyme. I cook them for about 7–10 minutes until they soften and begin to caramelize.
I gently smash about half of the grapes in the pan to release their juices, leaving the rest whole for texture.
I arrange the phyllo cups on a baking tray.
I spoon the grapes and some of their juices into each cup.
I top each one with crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts.
I bake the cups for 6–8 minutes, just until the cheese softens and the cups turn golden.
I serve them warm or at room temperature.
Servings And Timing
This recipe makes 15 mini cups.
Prep time: about 10 minutes
Cook time: about 15 minutes
Total time: around 25 minutes
I often double the recipe when serving a crowd because they disappear fast.
Variations
I swap walnuts for pecans or pistachios when I want a different flavor.
I sometimes use rosemary instead of thyme for a more aromatic twist.
I substitute goat cheese when I want something milder than blue cheese.
I use tartlet shells or crostini if I don’t have phyllo cups.
I drizzle a little extra honey on top for a sweeter finish.
Storage/Reheating
I find it best to roast the grapes ahead of time and store them in the fridge, then assemble and bake the cups right before serving so they stay crisp.
If I have leftovers, I refrigerate them for up to 1 day. To reheat, I place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3–5 minutes to bring back some of the crispness.
FAQs
What grapes work best?
I like using red or black seedless grapes because they roast beautifully and develop a rich sweetness.
Can I prepare these in advance?
I prepare the grapes ahead of time but wait to assemble and bake until right before serving so the phyllo cups stay crisp.
Can I make this nut-free?
Yes, I simply leave out the walnuts and still get a delicious sweet-savory bite.
Can I substitute the cheese?
Definitely — goat cheese or a mild creamy cheese works well, though I personally love the contrast that blue cheese provides.
Are they good served cold?
I prefer them warm, but they taste great at room temperature too, making them easy to serve for parties.
Conclusion
I enjoy making these roasted grape cups because they’re simple, elegant, and full of flavor. They always impress guests and come together in minutes. I hope you’ll try them and enjoy how beautifully the sweet grapes, tangy cheese, and crunchy nuts complement each other.
An elegant appetizer featuring roasted grapes, creamy blue cheese, and toasted walnuts nestled in crisp mini phyllo cups. Sweet, savory, and crunchy — perfect for entertaining.
