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Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs Recipe

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Introduction

Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs are one of those elegant yet surprisingly simple appetizers that make any gathering special. With a flaky puff pastry shell, a creamy cheese filling, and a hint of spinach goodness, these golden bites are the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. Whether served at parties, family dinners, or holiday tables, they are guaranteed to impress guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

This recipe combines fresh (or frozen) spinach, ricotta, parmesan, and puff pastry into savory rolls that bake to perfection. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also versatile—ideal for pairing with soups, serving as snacks, or even enjoying as a light lunch.

Ingredients

  • 225 grams of spinach leaves (fresh or frozen)
  • ½ sheet of puff pastry, thawed
  • 2 eggs (1 for the filling, 1 for egg wash)
  • 300 grams of ricotta cheese
  • ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (optional, for crunch)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cook the Spinach

  1. Place the spinach in a saucepan and cover with a lid.
  2. Cook over medium heat for about 7–10 minutes until the leaves wilt completely.
  3. Drain the spinach using a strainer, pressing down with a spoon to remove excess water.
  4. Allow the spinach to cool, then chop it finely.

Tip: If using frozen spinach, thaw it first and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before using.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta, parmesan, one egg, salt, and pepper.
  2. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated and forms a creamy filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Puff Pastry Rolls

  1. On a lightly floured surface, cut the puff pastry sheet in half lengthwise, creating two rectangles.
  2. Spread half of the filling lengthwise on each rectangle.
  3. Roll each pastry into a log shape, enclosing the filling.

Step 5: Slice and Arrange

  1. Cut each log into three equal pieces (or four smaller ones, if preferred).
  2. Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Add Egg Wash and Toppings

  1. Beat the second egg lightly and brush it over the tops of the pastry rolls.
  2. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds (or sesame seeds, if you prefer).
See also  Garlic Cauliflower and Mushrooms

Step 7: Bake

  1. Bake the spinach puffs for 20–25 minutes until they are puffed up and golden brown.
  2. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli, marinara, or a yogurt herb dip.
  • Pair with soup or salad for a light meal.
  • Present on a platter for appetizers at parties or holiday gatherings.

Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs

  • Use Baby Spinach: It’s more tender and doesn’t require as much cleaning or trimming.
  • Drain Thoroughly: Too much moisture in the spinach can make the filling soggy.
  • Customize the Filling: Add sautéed onions, garlic, or even crumbled feta for extra flavor.
  • Cheese Variations: Swap parmesan for pecorino or gruyère for a sharper taste.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls and freeze them unbaked. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

1. Can I make Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare them in advance and store them unbaked in the freezer. Bake when ready to serve for maximum freshness.

2. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Just make sure it’s well-drained to prevent excess water from ruining the pastry.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled spinach puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

4. Can I use other vegetables in the filling?
Yes. Mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even roasted peppers can be added for variety.

5. Can I make these vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure the cheese you use is labeled vegetarian if needed.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs are the perfect balance of flaky, creamy, and savory flavors. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s versatile enough for both everyday snacks and special occasions.

Whether enjoyed warm from the oven with a dipping sauce or served alongside a fresh salad, these puffs prove that simple recipes can deliver gourmet-level results. Once you try them, they’ll surely become a staple in your recipe collection.