Mini Star Cocktail Cups

Delicate, crispy phyllo cups filled with a creamy, savory shrimp and vegetable salad, perfect for an elegant appetizer at any gathering.

This recipe quickly became a favorite at my dinner parties due to its impressive look and delightful taste.

Ingredients

• For the Cups: 12 sheets phyllo pastry, 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter
• For the Filling: 150 g cooked shrimp, chopped, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp crème fraîche or sour cream, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup finely diced cucumber, 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill, Salt and pepper, to taste
• For Garnish: 12 small dill sprigs, Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)

Step 2:

Lightly brush the phyllo sheets with melted butter, stacking 3 sheets at a time. Cut into 12 squares (about 7.5 cm/3 inches each)

Step 3:

Gently press each square into a mini muffin tin to form star-shaped cups. Repeat with remaining phyllo and butter for a total of 12 cups

Step 4:

Bake for 8 10 minutes, until golden and crisp. Remove and let cool completely

Step 5:

In a bowl, combine shrimp, mayonnaise, crème fraîche, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, cucumber, red bell pepper, and dill. Season with salt and pepper

Step 6:

Spoon the shrimp mixture into cooled phyllo cups just before serving

Step 7:

Garnish each cup with a dill sprig and a sprinkle of lemon zest

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My family loves gathering around to make these together, sharing stories while assembling the cups

Recipe Variations

You can substitute shrimp with crab or finely diced cooked chicken, or make a vegetarian version using diced avocado and extra vegetables

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the flavors of the dish

Storage Tips

Store phyllo cups separately from the filling to maintain crispness and assemble just before serving

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These mini star cups make any occasion extra special with minimal effort

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the phyllo cups from becoming soggy?

Ensure the phyllo cups are fully cooled before filling to maintain crispness. Filling them just before serving helps preserve texture.

→ Can I substitute shrimp with other ingredients?

Yes, crab or finely diced cooked chicken can be used. For a vegetarian option, diced avocado and extra vegetables work well.

→ What’s the best way to shape the phyllo cups?

Stack three butter-brushed phyllo sheets, cut into squares, and gently press each into a mini muffin tin to form star shapes before baking.

→ How long should I bake the phyllo cups?

Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.

→ What are good drink pairings for these cups?

A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the savory shrimp and fresh flavors nicely.