It always seems like there’s this flash, about three winks, when fresh figs make their way into my market, making me squee a little! I adore them. Honestly, I’d have eaten every single one of them right out of the container without any fuss. But this is me we are talking about…I like to experiment…a lot. Then, there’s this obsession I have with sweet and salty. Do you love that pairing as much as I do? This recipe is just for you!
These bites come together so easily. Don’t be afraid of the phyllo! I’ve got some tips below that really help. Ripped sheets? No problem. Just pile them onto each other…because really, the messier you make this, the prettier they’ll be.
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Fig and Blue Cheese Phyllo Bites
12 fresh Black Mission Figs
extra virgin olive oil
16 sheets phyllo, room temperature
4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
honey
Wash and gently pat dry the figs. Trim their stalks and set aside.
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
Working quickly, stack 8 of the phyllo sheets, brushing lightly with olive oil between each. With a sharp knife, cut the sheet into 6 equal rectangles. Place one fig onto each rectangle. Using your fingers, scrunch the phyllo up around the fig to form a nest. Using a paring knife, slice down into the fig, cutting it into quarters about three quarters of the way down, leaving the bottom intact. Place the phyllo bite onto the baking sheet and continue with the rest of the figs. Brush the edges of the phyllo with just a tiny bit of olive oil if needed.
Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo sheets and figs.
Bake the bites for about 10 to 12 minutes or until golden. Sprinkle with the blue cheese and drizzle with honey. Serve warm.
Yields 12 pieces
Tips for working with phyllo…
-Bring the phyllo to room temperature before using. Cold phyllo sheets will stick together.
-Have everything you need ready to go before you even open the phyllo package.
-Work quickly.
-If you are working with the whole package of phyllo, you’ll want to cover the sheets with either waxed paper, parchment or plastic wrap with a damp towel over that.
-Don’t throw out any ripped sheets. This recipe, especially, is very forgiving. Most of the time, you can get around rips.
-Wrap up any unused sheets immediately and seal in a zipper bag making sure to remove all of the air. Phyllo can be refrozen if wrapped up tightly.
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Would it be possible to substitute whole dried figs in these recipes? I never see fresh figs in the only grocery store near my tiny little town. I love figs and these all look so good!
I love figs too, Kelli! I’ve only made this with fresh figs, so I’m really not sure how this would work with dried figs. I’m afraid they’d dry out too much when baked. The only thing I can think of is maybe if you soak the figs in warm water until they have softened before baking. I’d love to hear back if you give it a try!
I LOVE fresh figs — ahhh sooo good!! What a great appetizer or snack :)
I do too, Sharana! Thanks a bunch!
Crushing on these little bites! Perfect for a holiday party!
Awww…thanks so much, Sommer!
Beautiful figs! ;)
Pinned! <3
K-
Awww…thanks so much Kristin! :)