Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs Recipe

Buttery Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs Recipe for Snack Lovers

Whipping up these delectable cream cheese spinach puffs will transport you to a world of irresistible appetizers.

Crispy pastry shells cradle a velvety smooth filling that dances with herbal notes.

Guests always marvel at the elegant presentation and complex flavors.

Delicate yet satisfying, these bite-sized treats come together with surprising ease.

Mediterranean influences shine through in every golden, flaky morsel.

Perfectly balanced between rich cream cheese and bright spinach, they promise to become your new party favorite.

You won’t be able to stop at just one of these delightful little morsels.

How to Store Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs

  • Store leftover puffs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
  • Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Frozen puffs stay good for 2-3 weeks. Label the bag with the date.
  • Warm puffs at 350F for 8-10 minutes to restore crispy texture. Spread on a baking sheet and avoid overcrowding.
  • Reheat for 20-30 seconds on a microwave-safe plate. Puffs might lose some crispness but remain tasty and quick to enjoy.

FAQs About Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs

  • Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw frozen spinach completely and squeeze out excess water before mixing with cream cheese to prevent soggy pastry.

  • Is it possible to make these puffs ahead of time?

You can prepare and assemble the puffs up to a day in advance, then refrigerate. Brush with egg wash just before baking to maintain crispiness.

  • What type of puff pastry works best?

All-purpose frozen puff pastry from the grocery store works perfectly. Ensure it’s fully thawed but still cold when working with the dough.

  • How can I prevent my puffs from leaking?

Seal edges firmly with a fork and avoid overfilling. Leave a small border around the edges when adding the cream cheese mixture to ensure a proper seal.

Why Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs Are Delightful

  • Boost Flavor Fast: Packed with creamy cheese and spinach, these puffs deliver rich, tangy taste that makes every bite exciting and satisfying.
  • Impress Without Stress: Minimal ingredients and simple steps mean anyone can create restaurant-quality appetizers without complicated cooking techniques.
  • Perfect Party Pleaser: Versatile enough for game days, potlucks, or casual gatherings, these puffs will become your go-to crowd-pleasing snack that guests will love.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like adding different herbs or cheese types to match your personal taste preferences and make the recipe uniquely yours.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs

Main Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: A soft, tangy cheese that provides a rich and creamy base for the filling.
  • Spinach: A nutritious leafy green that adds flavor and vibrant color to the puffs.
  • Puff Pastry: A light, flaky pastry that creates a crispy and golden exterior for the appetizer.
Seasoning:
  • Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: These classic seasonings enhance the overall flavor profile of the cream cheese filling.
Finishing Ingredient:
  • Egg: A beaten egg helps seal the pastry edges and creates a beautiful golden-brown sheen when baked.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400F and grab a baking sheet. Layer it with parchment paper to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Blend the Filling

Grab a mixing bowl and toss in your creamy ingredients:
  • Cream cheese
  • Chopped spinach
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir everything together until it looks smooth and well-mixed.

Step 3: Prepare Pastry Pockets

Take your puff pastry and slice it into neat little squares. Dollop a generous spoonful of your spinach-cheese mixture right in the center of each square.

Step 4: Create Tasty Triangles

Fold each pastry square over to form delightful triangular pockets. Use a fork to crimp and seal the edges, making sure no filling escapes.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the tops of your pastry triangles with beaten egg for a beautiful golden shine. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Pull out your crispy, cheesy spinach puffs and let them cool for a moment. Serve these delectable treats warm as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that everyone will love.

Tips for Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs

  • Drain spinach thoroughly to prevent soggy pastry and ensure a crisp texture.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother, easier mixing without lumps.
  • Add a sprinkle of parmesan or feta cheese for extra flavor depth and richness.
  • Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil to customize the filling's taste profile.
  • Freeze unbaked puffs for quick future appetizers by storing them in an airtight container for up to one month.

Variations to Try with Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs

  • Mediterranean Magic: Replace spinach with sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and chopped kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Spin: Mix in diced jalapeños, shredded pepper jack cheese, and a pinch of cumin to create a zesty, southwestern-style puff pastry.
  • Herbal Garden Blend: Incorporate fresh chopped herbs like basil, thyme, and chives into the cream cheese mixture for an aromatic and fresh taste sensation.
  • Smoky Bacon Crunch: Add crispy crumbled bacon bits and a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the cream cheese filling for a rich, savory experience.

Best Pairings for Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy, tangy spinach filling perfectly, cutting through the richness with bright, zesty notes.
  • Serve with Fresh Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the puffs' richness and add a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy appetizer.
  • Match with Charcuterie Board: Arrange prosciutto, salami, and mild cheeses alongside the spinach puffs to create a sophisticated, layered flavor experience that highlights the pastry's delicate texture.
  • Enjoy with Sparkling Beverage: Prosecco or sparkling water with a splash of citrus provides a bubbly, palate-cleansing accompaniment that enhances the puffs' delicate flavors.
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Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs Recipe

Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs Recipe


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4.9 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Savory cream cheese spinach puffs deliver delightful Mediterranean-inspired flavors in crisp, golden pastry shells. Flaky layers packed with herbed cheese and tender spinach create an irresistible appetizer you’ll want to serve at every gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

Seasoning:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Binding/Coating:

  • 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 400°F and arrange parchment paper on a baking sheet for optimal cooking surface.
  2. Thoroughly blend cream cheese with finely chopped spinach, incorporating garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a harmonious filling mixture.
  3. Carefully slice puff pastry into precise squares, ensuring uniform size for consistent cooking.
  4. Delicately place a generous spoonful of cream cheese and spinach mixture at the center of each pastry square.
  5. Gently fold pastry diagonally to form elegant triangular shapes, pressing edges firmly with fork tines to create a secure seal.
  6. Delicately brush each pastry pocket with beaten egg, ensuring a glossy and golden exterior during baking.
  7. Transfer prepared puffs to prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, watching for a rich golden-brown coloration indicating perfect doneness.
  8. Remove from oven and allow brief cooling before serving these savory appetizers while still warm and crisp.

Notes

  • Ensure spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent soggy pastry and maintain crisp texture.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat and extra flavor complexity.
  • Consider using gluten-free puff pastry to make the recipe suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Experiment with different herbs like dill or chives to customize the filling’s taste profile.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 230 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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