Description
Cheesy Spinach & Feta Puff Pastry Bites
“Flaky, golden puff pastry filled with a rich, cheesy spinach mixture—perfect as a snack, appetizer, or brunch treat!”
Ingredients
For the Filling:
2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed & squeezed dry)
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 tbsp cream cheese
1 small garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
For the Pastry:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
In a bowl, mix spinach, feta, mozzarella, cream cheese, garlic, black pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
Prepare the Pastry:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the puff pastry and cut into squares or rectangles.
Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each piece.
Fold over and seal the edges with a fork or by pinching the sides.
Bake to Golden Perfection:
Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and puffy.
Serve & Enjoy:
Let them cool slightly and serve warm with garlic yogurt dip, tzatziki, or marinara sauce.
Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions to the filling!
Would you like a spinach & ricotta ?
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Thaw the puff pastry according to package instructions, typically 30-40 minutes at room temperature. 2. While the pastry thaws, finely chop the fresh spinach. If using frozen, ensure it is completely thawed and squeezed very dry in a clean kitchen towel to prevent a soggy filling. 3. In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, cream cheese, minced garlic, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix thoroughly. 4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 5. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll the puff pastry sheet into a 10×10 inch square. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 16 equal squares (2.5 inches each). 6. Place a heaping teaspoon of filling in the center of each square. 7. Fold one corner over the filling to the opposite corner, creating a triangle. Press the edges firmly with your fingers, then crimp with a fork to seal completely. 8. Transfer the bites to the prepared baking sheet. 9. In a small bowl, beat one egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush the top of each pastry bite. 10. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. 11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the pastries are deeply golden and puffed.
Serving Suggestions
These bites are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm as a party appetizer with dipping sauces like tzatziki, marinara, or a garlic-herb yogurt dip. For brunch, pair them with a light salad or fresh fruit. They also make a delightful packed lunch treat or picnic snack at room temperature. For an elegant touch, garnish the serving platter with fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
How-to Summary
Thaw and roll puff pastry. Mix spinach, cheeses, garlic, and spices for the filling. Cut pastry into squares, add filling, fold into triangles, and seal edges. Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden. Serve warm with your favorite dip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the bites, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them solid before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes.
Can I use phyllo dough instead? While possible, phyllo requires a different technique with layers and more butter. Puff pastry is recommended for its easier, flakier result.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispness.
My filling is leaking. What happened? This is usually due to overfilling or not sealing the edges properly. Ensure you leave a border and crimp firmly with a fork.
Can I use other cheeses? Absolutely. Ricotta can replace cream cheese for a lighter texture, and grated Parmesan or goat cheese can add different flavor profiles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not squeezing spinach dry: Excess moisture will steam the pastry and create a soggy bottom.
- Overfilling the pastry: This makes sealing difficult and causes leaks during baking.
- Using warm filling: Ensure your filling mixture is cool before assembling to prevent the pastry butter from melting prematurely.
- Not preheating the oven: A properly hot oven is crucial for the pastry to puff correctly.
- Neglecting the egg wash: It provides essential color and sheen; skipping it results in a pale finish.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Spinach & Feta Puff Pastry Bites are the perfect combination of simplicity and impressive flavor. With a flaky, buttery crust and a savory, rich filling, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this elegant yet easy recipe. Don’t hesitate to personalize the filling with your favorite add-ins for a new twist every time you bake them.