Description
Delightful Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Squares that combine creamy, tangy cheese with sweet and spicy pepper jelly wrapped in flaky, golden puff pastry. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, these bite-sized squares are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry Squares
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pepper Jelly
- 1/2 cup (120g) pepper jelly (red or green, depending on preference)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a clean, flat surface. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry evenly into 9 squares arranged in a 3×3 grid.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped chives (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and uniformly blended.
- Assemble Squares: Spread a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square, leaving space around the edges to fold over.
- Add Pepper Jelly: Spoon a portion of pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese mixture in each square, positioning it directly in the center.
- Fold and Brush: Carefully fold the edges of each puff pastry square slightly over the filling to create a small crust. Use the beaten egg to brush the edges to ensure a shiny, golden finish once baked.
- Bake: Place the assembled squares on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the squares from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a touch of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the puff pastry squares warm as an appetizer or snack and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before working to prevent tearing.
- Adjust the amount of pepper jelly based on your preferred sweetness and spiciness level.
- Fresh chives add a nice flavor contrast but can be omitted for simplicity.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to avoid sticking and help with easy cleanup.
- Can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
