Hey y'all! If you're searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, look no further than these Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer for any event. These golden, flaky bites are loaded with creamy cheese, tender spinach, and just the right hint of garlic. Whether you're hosting a holiday party, a casual brunch, or need a quick snack, these irresistible puffs disappear fast! Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer Recipe
- Super easy to prepare with store-bought puff pastry—no fuss in the kitchen!
- Creamy, savory flavor with a melty, cheesy texture in every bite.
- Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a satisfying snack on movie night.
- Vegetarian-friendly and packed with nutrient-rich spinach.
- Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed, about 8.5 oz/240g)
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How to Make Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, thawed and squeezed spinach, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, 1 egg, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until creamy and well incorporated.
Step 2: Cut and Fill the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 9 equal squares (about 3x3 inches each). Place a heaping tablespoon of filling in the center of each square.
Step 3: Shape and Seal
Gently pinch each corner of the pastry square toward the center, sealing the edges to enclose the filling. Place the puffs seam-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.
Step 4: Bake the Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer
Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and flaky. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes for Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer
- Always squeeze spinach really well to avoid excess moisture in your filling.
- Feel free to swap mozzarella for Swiss or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- For more tips on working with puff pastry, check out this comprehensive guide from King Arthur Baking.
Variations of Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer
- Mushroom & Spinach Puffs: Add ½ cup finely chopped sautéed mushrooms to the filling.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Mini Puffs: Cut pastry into 16 small squares for bite-sized party appetizers.
Required Equipment for Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Pastry brush
Storage Instructions for Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer
Store leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until warm and crisp. For longer storage, freeze baked puffs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen as above.
Serving Recommendations for Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer
Serve these puffs alongside a tangy tomato salsa, your favorite dipping sauce, or a crisp green salad. They pair beautifully with sparkling wine or a light white like Sauvignon Blanc.
Pro Tips for Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer
- Thaw puff pastry in the fridge overnight to keep it pliable and flaky.
- Keep pastry cold until you're ready to use; warm dough won’t puff as much.
- For more info on the benefits of spinach, visit Healthline’s guide on spinach nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions: Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs – Perfect Appetizer
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
- Absolutely! Sauté about 4 cups of fresh spinach until wilted, then squeeze out any excess liquid before using.
- Do these Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs freeze well?
- Yes! Bake and cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container.
- Can I make these ahead for a party?
- Definitely. Prep and shape the puffs, then cover and refrigerate up to 8 hours before baking fresh for your guests.
Looking for more appetizer inspiration? Check out Delish's ultimate appetizer collection for more ideas!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
-
1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
2In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
-
3Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut into 12 equal squares.
-
4Place a spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center of each pastry square. Fold the corners up and pinch to seal, forming a puff.
-
5Beat the egg and brush over the tops of the puffs for a golden finish.
-
6Arrange the puffs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Serve warm.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!