Golden, flaky, and filled with creamy perfection, these Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs are the kind of appetizer that steals the spotlight at any table. Imagine buttery layers of puff pastry wrapping a warm, velvety filling of spinach, garlic, and soft cream cheese — each bite melting on your tongue with a perfect balance of crisp and creamy. They’re elegant enough for a party platter yet comforting enough to enjoy with a cup of tea on a quiet afternoon. Every puff comes out of the oven puffed, golden, and beautifully aromatic, making your kitchen smell like a little corner bakery.
Ingredients
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (about 250 g)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped (or ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for a savory tang)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• A small pinch of nutmeg (optional, but heavenly with spinach)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the spinach filling
Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the spinach and cook just until wilted (or warmed through if using frozen). Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, then set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Create the creamy mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with cream cheese and feta. Stir until everything is creamy and evenly blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking — this filling should be savory and luscious.
Step 3: Shape the pastry
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 8 to 10 squares. Place a spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center of each square.
Step 4: Fold and seal
Bring two opposite corners of the pastry over the filling, overlapping them slightly in the center. Press gently to seal. Brush the tops with beaten egg to give them a golden sheen once baked.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Arrange the filled pastries on the baking tray, leaving a little space between each one. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until puffed and deeply golden. The aroma will tell you they’re ready — buttery, garlicky, and irresistible.
Variations
• Add a handful of shredded mozzarella for a gooey texture inside.
• Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or black olives for a Mediterranean twist.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking for a beautiful finish.
• Add a touch of chili flakes for a little warmth and spice.
Storage
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To bring back their crispness, reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5–8 minutes. They also freeze beautifully — just reheat straight from frozen until hot and flaky again.
Serving Ideas
Serve them warm, fresh from the oven, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley. They pair wonderfully with a creamy garlic yogurt dip, a bright tzatziki, or even a simple tomato sauce. Perfect alongside a salad or a comforting bowl of soup.
Nutrition (per puff, approximate)
Calories: 180
Fat: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Protein: 4 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 180 mg
FAQ
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely — just thaw it completely and squeeze out every drop of water before mixing.
Can I air fry them?
Yes, they turn out beautifully crisp. Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes.
Can I make them without cream cheese?
Yes, you can replace cream cheese with ricotta, goat cheese, or even cottage cheese mixed with a little shredded mozzarella.
Conclusion
These Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs are the definition of effortless elegance. Every flaky layer holds a bite of creamy, garlicky comfort that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weekend brunch, or simply craving something warm and special, these puffs deliver pure joy in every golden parcel. One taste, and they’ll become your go-to appetizer for every occasion.