Pumpkin Goat Cheese Phyllo Bites — A Cozy Fall Appetizer

October 31, 2025

Pumpkin Goat Cheese Phyllo Bites Recipe at The Little Shop of Olive Oils

There’s something magical about fall flavors — that perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and just a hint of sweet warmth. These Pumpkin Goat Cheese Phyllo Bites capture all of that in one delightful, two-bite appetizer that feels fancy but is secretly so simple to make.

The creamy goat cheese blends beautifully with earthy pumpkin purée and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey, creating a spread that’s equal parts sweet and savory. Tucked inside crisp, golden phyllo shells and sprinkled with thyme or a touch of cinnamon, these bites are an instant crowd-pleaser — whether you’re hosting Friendsgiving or bringing a little gourmet flair to your next holiday gathering.

Want to make them your own? Try adding toasted walnuts, fresh herbs, or even a drizzle of your favorite balsamic glaze from The Little Shop of Olive Oils (hint: our Maple Balsamic or Cinnamon Pear Balsamic pairs perfectly).

They’re as pretty as they are delicious — proof that the best things really do come in small packages.

Pumpkin Goat Cheese Phyllo Bites

Crispy phyllo cups filled with creamy pumpkin-spiced goat cheese and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup — the perfect bite-sized fall appetizer that’s sweet, savory, and effortlessly elegant.

Author: The Little Shop of Olive Oils
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Servings: 12
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

1 (4 oz) log goat cheese, softened
¼ cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 tablespoon bourbon honey
¼ teaspoon cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 package mini phyllo shells (or pre-baked puff pastry cups)
Thyme for garnish (optional but oh so good)
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven according to the directions for your phyllo shells (typically 350°F).
Mix it up: In a medium bowl, combine softened goat cheese, pumpkin purée, honey or maple syrup, and cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
Season: Add a pinch of salt and pepper, then stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Fill the shells: Spoon or pipe the pumpkin-goat cheese mixture into the phyllo cups.
Bake: Warm in the oven for 5–8 minutes, just until the edges of the phyllo are golden and the filling is lightly warmed.
Top it off: Garnish with toasted nuts, a sprig of thyme, or a light drizzle of balsamic for that finishing touch.
Serve & savor: Enjoy warm or at room temperature — they’re irresistible either way!