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Savory and Silky: Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs for Every Occasion
If you’re looking for a deliciously easy appetizer or snack that will wow your guests, look no further than Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs. These little bites are the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and flaky—ideal for everything from casual get-togethers to elegant dinner parties. The creamy filling of spinach and cream cheese wrapped in a buttery, golden puff pastry creates a mouthwatering treat that’s bound to become a crowd favorite.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a game night, or just craving something savory, these spinach puffs are versatile, simple to prepare, and sure to impress. Let’s dive into how you can make these delightful treats and why they should be your go-to recipe for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs
The blend of cream cheese and spinach offers a rich, velvety texture that perfectly balances the light, flaky puff pastry. This dish combines a variety of flavors that are familiar yet exciting. Here are a few reasons why these spinach puffs are the ultimate snack:
- Flavor-packed: The creamy cream cheese and savory spinach filling is complemented by a touch of garlic and herbs, creating an irresistible combination.
- Easy to make: With store-bought puff pastry, the prep time is minimal, allowing you to focus on the fun part—enjoying your food.
- Versatile: These puffs can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even as a side dish to a main course. They’re perfect for any occasion!
- Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering, party, or brunch, these puffs are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re bite-sized, easy to eat, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delicious Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or other herbs like oregano or basil)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
- A small amount of cooked bacon or sausage for extra savory flavor
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
How to Make Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs
1. Prepare the Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the garlic, onion powder, and dried thyme (or any herbs you prefer), and mix everything together until smooth and well combined.
Next, take the thawed spinach (make sure to squeeze out any excess water) and chop it into small pieces. Add the spinach to the cream cheese mixture and stir until evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out your sheet of puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. If the pastry is in a rectangular shape, cut it into smaller squares, approximately 3×3 inches. You should be able to make about 9-12 puffs, depending on the size of your pastry squares.
3. Assemble the Puffs
Place a spoonful of the spinach and cream cheese filling in the center of each puff pastry square. Be sure not to overfill them, as the filling will spread during baking.
Next, fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to create little pockets or triangles. You can seal the edges by gently pressing down with a fork to ensure they stay closed while baking.
4. Brush with Olive Oil
For that golden, flaky finish, lightly brush each puff with oliv