Crispy Cream Cheeze Appetizers
A perfect union of crispy shell and rich creamy filling, these bites of flavour and texture are sure to be enjoyed by all! A perfect make-ahead treat!
| Servings | Prep Time |
| 1 1/2cups cheeze | 30minutes |
| Cook Time | Passive Time |
| 5-10minutes | overnightfor soaking cashews |
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Ingredients
Crispy Phyllo Shells
- 1package phyllo pastrythawed according to instructions on package.
- 1/3cup Earth Balance or other vegan butter, melted
Soft Garlic Cream Cheeze
- 2cups raw cashewssoaked overnight and then rinsed and drained
- 1/4cup water
- 1/4cup nutritional yeast
- 3cloves finely minced garlic
- 1/2teaspoon garlic powder
- finely grated lemon rind of one lemon
- 1/4cup fresh lemon juice
- 2Tablespoons light-flavoured olive oil
- 1/2teaspoon saltmore to taste
Instructions
Phyllo Shells
- Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Unwrap the thawed phyllo and cut the multi-layers into even squares of about 4 inches across. Brush mini-cupcake pans with a little melted butter. Push a single square of pastry into each pan and lightly brush the layer with butter. Repeat this so that there are 5 or 6 layers. Brush final layer with butter to coat all edges of pastry. Work quickly so that the pastry does not dry out. Keep the pastry that you are not working with immediately under a slightly damp cloth. (with paper in between so that it doesn’t add too much dampness.)
- Once all the shells are created, bake them until they are lightly golden brown and cooked through. They should only take about 5-10 minutes.
- These baked, unfilled shells can stay crisp for at least 4-5 days!
Cream Cheeze
- Rinse and drain the soaked cashews.
- In a food processor or blender, combine all the ingredients and process until smooth.
- Taste the cheeze and adjust for flavour preferences.
- Refrigerate overnight to blend and mellow.
Creating Appetizers
- Spoon or pipe a little cream cheeze into each pre-cooked shell. Decorate with your choice of tasty and colourful toppings. Options might include: roasted sliced almonds, fresh dill, chopped chives, sesame seeds, pomegranate seeds, finely chopped red pepper.
- When ready to serve, heat oven to 350 degrees F. Put filled shells in the oven and bake for a few moments until shell and filling are warm. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Of course, you could always serve this creamy cheeze in a small bowl, surrounded by crackers and veggies.
