These cheddar cups with avocado feta mousse are an elegant yet effortless appetizer that feels party-ready while being surprisingly simple to prepare. Crisp, golden cheese cups are filled with a smooth, tangy avocado mousse and finished with crunchy baked kale for a bite that’s rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It looks impressive but requires very simple techniques
• The cheddar cups are made with just one main ingredient
• The avocado feta mousse is creamy, fresh, and full of flavor
• Perfect for parties, gatherings, or special occasions
• Can be prepped in stages to save time on the day of serving

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cheddar cups
6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded from a block

Avocado feta mousse
2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
6 tablespoons milk
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Baked kale
2 cups kale leaves, washed and ribs removed
1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Pinch of salt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a standard muffin tin.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Place small circular mounds of shredded cheddar cheese on the sheet, spacing them at least 1 inch apart.

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the cheese melts, spreads, and turns lightly golden around the edges.

Remove from the oven and let the cheese rounds sit for 30 to 60 seconds. While still pliable, carefully lift each round with a spatula and gently press it into the muffin tin to form a cup shape. Work quickly before the cheese hardens.

Allow the cheese cups to cool completely in the muffin tin, then carefully remove them and set aside.

To make the avocado feta mousse, place the avocados, feta cheese, lime juice, milk, and black pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Set aside.

To prepare the baked kale, place the kale leaves in a bowl and toss with olive oil, red pepper flakes, and salt until evenly coated. Spread the kale in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Bake at 350°F for 16 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the kale is crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

To assemble, spoon or pipe the avocado feta mousse into each cooled cheddar cup. Top with crispy baked kale and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 appetizer cups

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Replace sharp cheddar with mild cheddar for a softer flavor
• Add a pinch of garlic powder to the avocado mousse for extra depth
• Skip the kale and top with extra crumbled feta instead
• Add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the mousse
• Sprinkle the finished cups with extra red pepper flakes for more heat

Storage/Reheating

Cheddar cups can be made several hours in advance and stored at room temperature in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Do not refrigerate the cheese cups.

The avocado feta mousse should be made close to serving time. If prepared in advance, store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning.

Assemble the cups just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Reheating is not recommended.

FAQs

Can I make the cheddar cups ahead of time?

Yes, the cheddar cups can be made earlier in the day and stored at room temperature until ready to fill.

Why did my cheese cups turn oily?

Cheddar naturally releases oil as it melts. Using freshly shredded cheese and avoiding overbaking helps reduce excess oil.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly shredded cheese is recommended, as pre-shredded cheese contains additives that affect melting.

How do I keep the avocado mousse from browning?

Lime juice helps slow browning. You can also drizzle a little extra lime juice on top before serving.

Can I make this recipe without kale?

Yes, the kale is optional. You can leave it off or replace it with extra feta or herbs.

What’s the best way to shape the cheese cups?

A standard muffin tin works best. Press gently while the cheese is warm and flexible.

Can I pipe the mousse instead of spooning it?

Yes, piping gives a cleaner, more polished presentation.

Are these cups gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use another cheese instead of cheddar?

Sharp cheeses that melt well, such as aged cheddar-style cheeses, work best for forming cups.

How long can these sit out at a party?

They are best enjoyed within 1 to 2 hours of assembling, especially because of the avocado filling.

Conclusion

Cheddar cups with avocado feta mousse are the perfect combination of elegance and ease. With crisp cheese shells, creamy filling, and a crunchy topping, they deliver big flavor in a small bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a standout appetizer, this recipe is guaranteed to impress while keeping preparation stress-free.

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