Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese

These Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese are the ultimate party appetizer, combining flaky puff pastry with a rich, creamy spinach filling. The melted mozzarella and cream cheese, along with savory garlic, make for a delectable filling encased in a golden, crispy shell. Quick to prepare and easy to bake, these puffs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Flaky, Buttery Pastry: Puff pastry makes these puffs light and crispy, adding a delicious contrast to the creamy filling.
Creamy and Cheesy Filling: Cream cheese and mozzarella create a rich, melty filling with a mild, comforting flavor.
Easy to Prepare: With store-bought puff pastry and simple ingredients, these puffs come together quickly.
Versatile for Entertaining: Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even as a savory snack, these puffs work for nearly any occasion.

Key Ingredients:

Let’s go over each ingredient and how it contributes to the perfect spinach puff.

Puff Pastry: This flaky pastry forms the shell of the puffs. Using high-quality puff pastry ensures a crispy, light texture. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using if it’s frozen.
Baby Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a healthy dose of vitamins. Baby spinach is tender and quick to cook, making it ideal for this recipe.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and aroma, balancing the mild flavors of the spinach and cheese.
Olive Oil: Used to sauté the garlic and spinach, bringing out their flavors and adding a subtle richness.
Cream Cheese: The base of the filling, cream cheese makes the filling smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy, helping to hold everything together.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella adds a gooey texture and mild cheese flavor that complements the cream cheese beautifully.
Egg: Mixed into the filling, the egg helps bind the ingredients, creating a cohesive texture when baked.
Egg Yolk: Brushed on top of the pastry, egg yolk gives the puffs a beautiful golden brown finish.
Salt and Black Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the flavor of the filling and bring out the natural flavors of the spinach and cheese.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy removal and even baking.

2. Prepare the Spinach Filling

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
Add 7 ounces of baby spinach, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook until the spinach is wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
Remove from heat and allow the spinach to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Puff Pastry

Lay 1 sheet of puff pastry on a flat surface.
Cut the pastry into either 6 or 12 squares, depending on your desired puff size.
Arrange the squares on the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each one.

4. Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach with 8 ounces of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, and one beaten egg.
Mix until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Assemble the Puffs

Place a generous spoonful of filling in the center of each pastry square.
Fold opposite edges toward the center and press to seal, or bring all four corners to the center for a different shape.
Ensure edges are sealed well to prevent filling leakage during baking.

6. Brush with Egg Yolk

In a small bowl, beat one egg yolk.
Use a pastry brush to lightly brush the tops of the puffs with egg yolk for a shiny, golden finish.

7. Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 35 minutes, until the puffs are golden brown and well-risen.

8. Serve

Allow the puffs to cool slightly on the baking tray before serving.
Serve warm on a platter for guests to enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Spinach Puffs:

Thaw Puff Pastry Properly: For the best results, thaw the puff pastry in the refrigerator to keep it firm and easy to work with.
Cool the Spinach: Ensure the spinach is fully cooled before adding it to the filling to prevent the cream cheese from melting.
Seal the Edges Well: Make sure the edges of the pastry are sealed to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
Customize Your Shape: Fold the pastry squares however you prefer! You can create triangles, envelopes, or bring all four corners to the center.

Variations:

There are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to your taste. Here are a few ideas:

Add Feta Cheese: For a Mediterranean twist, add crumbled feta to the filling for a tangy flavor.
Use Different Greens: Try substituting spinach with other greens, like kale or Swiss chard, for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a little heat.
Herb Addition: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can add a fresh, aromatic note to the filling.

Serving Suggestions:

These spinach puffs are perfect on their own, but here are a few ways to make them part of a larger meal:

Serve with a Dip: Pair with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping.
Salad Side: Serve with a fresh side salad for a light, balanced meal.
Appetizer Platter: Include these puffs as part of an appetizer platter with other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms, mini quiches, and fresh vegetables.

Conclusion:

These Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese are a delightful, easy-to-make appetizer or snack that combines flaky pastry with a creamy, cheesy filling. The rich filling is balanced by the lightness of the puff pastry, making every bite satisfying and delicious. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, these puffs are perfect for entertaining or enjoying any time you’re in the mood for a savory treat.

Enjoy every flaky, cheesy bite!