Garlic Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are the ultimate cheesy indulgence, perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or party treat. These delightful pockets are filled with a rich blend of creamy cheeses, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, these delicious bites are sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (to mix with egg)
- 150g cream cheese (softened)
- 100g mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 50g cheddar cheese (grated)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced or roasted)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted, for brushing after baking)
Directions
-
Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mozzarella, cheddar, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. You can also roast the garlic first for a milder, sweeter flavor.
-
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200 degrees C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
-
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet lightly on a floured surface. Cut it into 6 to 8 equal squares, depending on your preferred size.
-
Assemble the Pockets: Place a spoonful of the garlic cheese mixture in the center of each square. Fold over into a triangle or rectangle and seal the edges by pressing with a fork. Ensure no filling leaks out.
-
Egg Wash: Beat the egg with a tablespoon of milk. Brush the tops of each pastry pocket for a glossy golden finish.
-
Bake: Place the filled pastries on the prepared tray and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
-
Final Touch: Once baked, brush lightly with melted butter and sprinkle a bit of extra parsley or grated cheese if desired.
-
Serve: Serve warm with a side of marinara, garlic aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6-8 pockets
Nutrition Info: Each pocket contains approximately 150 calories, with 10g of fat, 8g of protein, and 2g of carbohydrates.
How to Serve
These Garlic Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets make for a delightful appetizer when served hot. Pair them with a tangy marinara sauce for dipping or garlic aioli for an extra flavor kick. They also work wonderfully as a side dish for salads or soups. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can customize the cheese mix to your liking. Goat cheese, ricotta, or any other melty cheese can be used in place of the mozzarella or cheddar.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pockets a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Garlic Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their flakiness before serving again.