Sweet & Crunchy Pecan Caramel Baklava Cups

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If you’re a fan of flaky layers, sweet sticky caramel, and the rich nutty crunch of pecans, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Sweet & Crunchy Pecan Caramel Baklava Cups. These little dessert gems are a bite-sized twist on the classic Middle Eastern pastry, bringing together all the buttery, nut-laced goodness with a touch of American-style caramel decadence.

Perfect for parties, holidays, or a cozy night-in treat, these cups are simple to make and serve. Using phyllo dough as a shortcut and layering in a buttery pecan filling, then topping it all with a warm caramel drizzle, these baklava cups come together quickly and deliver a big punch of flavor. They feel indulgent without being overwhelming, and the presentation? Adorable and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet & Crunchy Pecan Caramel Baklava Cups Recipe

This recipe is a brilliant fusion of traditional and modern. You’ll love it for how easily it turns store-bought ingredients into something that feels bakery-made. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch and a smooth caramel note that melts into the pecans. They’re portion-controlled, easy to share, and even easier to devour.

Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving, a potluck, or just treating yourself, these baklava cups add a pop of charm and flavor to any dessert table.

What Kind of Phyllo Dough Should I Use?

For this recipe, store-bought frozen phyllo dough is perfect. Look for sheets that are thin and labeled “phyllo” or “filo” in the freezer section. You’ll want to thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. Once thawed, keep the sheets covered with a slightly damp towel to prevent them from drying out while you work.

Mini phyllo shells also work great if you’re in a hurry. They save time and skip the need for cutting and layering. Just remember, whether you use sheets or pre-made cups, butter is your best friend here.

Ingredients for the Sweet & Crunchy Pecan Caramel Baklava Cups

To make these heavenly bites, you’ll only need a handful of simple but powerful ingredients. They each play a role in building texture, sweetness, and depth.

Phyllo dough
This creates the crisp, flaky base. Whether you use pre-made shells or sheets you cut yourself, this is what gives the cups their signature crunch.

Unsalted butter
Melted and brushed between layers, butter is what gives the phyllo that golden, delicious finish.

Pecans
Chopped pecans provide the rich, nutty texture and flavor that stands at the heart of these baklava cups.

Brown sugar
Adds caramel-like depth and a touch of molasses flavor to the nut filling.

Cinnamon
Just a pinch enhances the warmth and ties together the sweet and nutty flavors.

Honey
Drizzled into the nut mixture or added after baking, honey gives a sweet stickiness and echoes classic baklava.

Caramel sauce
Poured on top after baking, caramel brings a luscious, buttery finish and a modern twist.

How To Make the Sweet & Crunchy Pecan Caramel Baklava Cups

Step 1: Prepare the Phyllo Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F. If using sheets of phyllo, cut them into squares and layer 5-6 sheets per muffin tin cup, brushing each sheet lightly with butter and rotating each layer slightly to form a flower-like shape. If using premade mini phyllo shells, simply place them on a baking tray.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a spoonful of honey. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and sticky.

Step 3: Assemble the Cups

Spoon a heaping teaspoon of the pecan mixture into each phyllo cup. Don’t overfill; a small mound is plenty.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Bake the cups for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crisp. Watch closely so they don’t burn.

Step 5: Add Caramel Drizzle

Let the cups cool for a few minutes. Then, while still warm, drizzle with warm caramel sauce. Allow them to set slightly before serving.

How to Serve and Store These Baklava Cups

These baklava cups are ideal for serving warm or at room temperature. You can make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temp for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate and reheat gently in the oven to restore crispiness.

This recipe yields about 24 mini cups, depending on the size of your muffin tin or phyllo shells. Perfect for a gathering or a weekend indulgence.

What to Serve With Sweet & Crunchy Pecan Caramel Baklava Cups?

Coffee or Espresso

The strong, rich notes of coffee balance the sweetness of the baklava cups beautifully.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve a warm baklava cup with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert combo.

Whipped Cream

Light and airy whipped cream is a simple topping that adds a creamy contrast.

Spiced Chai Tea

The warm spices of chai complement the cinnamon and honey in the cups.

Sparkling Cider

A non-alcoholic cider gives a refreshing bite that cleanses the palate.

Dark Chocolate Squares

The bitterness of dark chocolate pairs nicely with the sweet caramel and nutty pecans.

Fruit Platter

Fresh berries or sliced pears add a light and juicy counterpoint to the rich baklava.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If these pecan caramel baklava cups have your sweet tooth dancing, you’ll definitely want to try these other reader favorites:

• Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons for a chewy tropical treat.
• Ooey Gooey Bars with their melt-in-your-mouth magic.
• Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a no-bake creamy bite.
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes that combine breakfast and dessert into one irresistible cup.
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars to turn holiday extras into something extraordinary.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you toast the pecans? Use sea salt caramel? Or maybe added a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast?

I always love seeing your twists on my recipes. And don’t hesitate to ask questions—we’re in this sweet journey together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy desserts on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite treat!

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