Introducing a Festive Treat
Looking for a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests this holiday season? Savory puff pastry appetizers are the perfect choice, combining flaky pastry with delicious fillings that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or a sophisticated holiday party, these appetizers will surely be a hit.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 18–22 mins
Additional Time: 10 mins (optional chilling)
Total Time: 50 mins
Servings: 12 parcels
Yield: 12–16 bite-sized appetizers
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed but still cold
All-purpose flour (for dusting)
Filling (Choose One or Mix & Match)
Spinach & Feta:
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
Pinch of black pepper
Mushroom & Herb:
1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or parsley
Salt & pepper to taste
Ham & Cheese:
½ cup chopped ham
½ cup grated cheddar or gruyère
Brie & Cranberry (Festive option):
12 small cubes of brie
3 tablespoons cranberry sauce
Egg Wash
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
Optional Toppings
Sesame seeds
Flaky sea salt
Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary)
Optional Dipping Sauces
Cranberry sauce
Honey mustard
Garlic ravioli
Sweet chili sauce
Directions
Prepare the filling:
Choose your desired filling. If using spinach/feta or mushroom mix, sauté lightly until softened. Let cool before filling.Preheat the oven:
Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Prepare the puff pastry:
Lightly flour your work surface. Roll out the puff pastry into a 10×10-inch rectangle. Cut into 12 equal squares.Fill the parcels:
Place 1–2 teaspoons of filling in the center of each square. Avoid overfilling to prevent leaking.Shape the parcels:
For triangles: Fold each square diagonally and pinch edges.
For bundles: Bring all corners together and pinch.
For mini tarts: Press pastry into a muffin pan and spoon filling inside.
Seal the edges:
Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly or pinch with fingers to ensure they stay closed during baking.Apply egg wash:
Whisk egg and water together. Brush lightly over all parcels for a golden finish.Add toppings:
Sprinkle sesame seeds, flaky salt, or herbs on top if desired.Bake:
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until puffed, flaky, and deep golden brown.Cool and serve:
Let pastries rest 5 minutes on the baking sheet. Serve warm with dipping sauces.
Cook’s Notes
Keep the pastry cold:
Warm pastry becomes sticky and won’t puff properly. Chill shapes in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking if needed.Filling substitute ideas:
Goat cheese & caramelized onion
Sun-dried tomato & mozzarella
Smoked salmon & cream cheese
Apple & brie for a sweet-savory twist
Make-ahead tips:
Assemble parcels up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, or freeze unbaked parcels for up to 2 months.Reheating:
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness (avoid microwaving — they’ll go soggy).
Nutrition Facts (Per Parcel — Estimated)
Calories: 115
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: ~120mg
