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– **Ham and Cheese**: Simply dice your ham into small pieces, and mix with shredded cheese (Swiss, Gruyere, or cheddar works great). Add a small spoonful of Dijon mustard for an extra layer of flavor.
For sweet fillings like **Apple Cinnamon**, simply peel and slice your apples. Toss them in sugar, cinnamon, and a small pat of butter. For a quicker option, you could also use store-bought apple pie filling.
#### Step 3: Cut the Puff Pastry
Once your filling is ready, it’s time to cut the puff pastry into squares or rectangles. You can typically get about 6 to 8 portions from a single sheet of puff pastry, depending on the size of your parcels.
Make sure that the pieces are large enough to hold a good amount of filling without overstuffing. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 1 inch of space on each side to ensure they seal properly when folded.
#### Step 4: Add the Filling
Spoon a generous amount of your prepared filling into the center of each puff pastry square. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the parcels to burst open while baking.
#### Step 5: Seal the Parcels
To seal the parcels, fold the corners of the pastry over the filling, creating a triangle or square shape. Press the edges firmly together, making sure there are no gaps. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a more decorative touch and to ensure the parcels stay sealed during baking.
#### Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
For a beautiful golden finish, lightly beat an egg and brush it over the surface of each parcel. The egg wash helps the pastry become crispy and achieve a stunning golden color while baking. If you want an extra savory touch, you can sprinkle a little salt on top for added flavor.
#### Step 7: Bake the Parcels
Place your puff pastry parcels onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and bake the parcels for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. The exact time will vary depending on your oven, but you’ll know they’re ready when the tops are crispy and the pastry is fully puffed.
#### Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the parcels from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, with the crispy outer shell giving way to the warm, flavorful filling inside. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these crispy puff pastry parcels are guaranteed to be a hit!
### Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Parcels
– **Don’t Overstuff**: While it’s tempting to fill these parcels with as much goodness as possible, be mindful of the filling-to-pastry ratio. Overstuffing can cause the pastry to tear or not cook evenly.
– **Seal Properly**: Make sure the edges are sealed well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. If needed, you can pinch the edges together with your fingers or use a fork to crimp them tightly.
– **Experiment with Fillings**: Puff pastry parcels are incredibly versatile. Try using different combinations of sweet and savory fillings to suit your tastes. You can even make a batch with a variety of fillings for a fun tasting experience.
– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare these parcels ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just be sure to bake them fresh for the best texture and flavor.
### Conclusion
Crispy puff pastry parcels are the perfect solution for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and delicious treat. Whether you fill them with savory ingredients like cheese, spinach, and ham, or satisfy your sweet tooth with apple cinnamon or Nutella and banana, these parcels are a versatile and irresistible addition to your cooking repertoire.
With minimal prep time, simple ingredients, and the magic of puff pastry, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re entertaining guests, packing a lunch, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these crispy puff pastry parcels will always be a hit.
So the next time you’re in the kitchen, grab a sheet of puff pastry and let your imagination run wild with delicious fillings. Enjoy the crispy, flaky, and delightful results that are bound to make every bite a true joy!
