Savory Puff Pastry Appetizers

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces ham, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Filling: Spread Dijon mustard (if using) over the puff pastry. Layer with ham slices and shredded cheese.
2. Roll and Slice: Roll the puff pastry into a log, then slice into 1-inch pinwheels.
3. Egg Wash: Brush the pinwheels with beaten egg.
4. Bake: Place on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden and puffed.

3. Mushroom and Thyme Tarts

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook Mushrooms: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms until they are soft and any liquid has evaporated. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Prepare Pastry: Cut puff pastry into small squares or circles.
3. Assemble Tarts: Place a small spoonful of the mushroom mixture on each pastry piece. Top with a bit of cream cheese.
4. Egg Wash: Brush the edges with beaten egg.
5. Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden.

4. Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Caramelize Onions: Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cook onions, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown (about 15-20 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare Pastry: Cut puff pastry into bite-sized squares.
3. Assemble Bites: Place a small spoonful of caramelized onions on each pastry square. Top with crumbled goat cheese and thyme leaves.
4. Egg Wash: Brush the edges with beaten egg.
5. Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until puffed and golden.

5. Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Twists

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup pesto sauce
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Spread Pesto: Spread pesto sauce evenly over the puff pastry.
2. Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese on top.
3. Twist: Cut the pastry into strips and twist each strip.
4. Egg Wash: Brush with beaten egg.
5. Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden.

Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Appetizers

• Thaw Properly: Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before using it. This helps it puff up nicely during baking.
• Keep It Cold: Keep the pastry cold until you’re ready to bake. If it warms up too much, it may not puff properly.
• Seal Edges Well: When folding or sealing pastries, make sure the edges are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
• Use Egg Wash: Brushing with beaten egg gives a golden, shiny finish to your appetizers.

Conclusion

These savory puff pastry appetizers are versatile and easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a tasty snack, these recipes will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings and flavors to create your perfect puff pastry treat!