There’s nothing quite as satisfying as the aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through your kitchen, especially when those treats are as delightful as Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese. Picture this: you’re unwinding after a long day, and the thought of whipping up a quick yet impressive snack fills you with joy. These flaky, golden puffs greet you with a savory embrace of creamy cheeses and nutritious spinach—all encased in perfectly flaky puff pastry.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a weekend cooking spree, and it quickly became a go-to favorite. They’re not just easy to prepare, but versatile enough to serve at a casual family dinner or as elegant appetizers for your next gathering. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll relish the blend of flavors and textures. Ready to get started? Your taste buds are in for a real treat!
Why You'll Love This Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese
- These Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese are a breeze to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious treat in no time.
- The delightful combination of creamy cheeses and spinach provides a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for more.
- Their versatility means they can easily transition from a cozy family dinner to a fancy cocktail party appetizer, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Plus, their golden, flaky appearance makes them irresistibly appealing, ensuring they’ll be the star of the table.
Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese Ingredients
Ready to create something delightful?
For the Filling
- Frozen chopped spinach – 10 oz, thawed and drained for a vibrant flavor.
- Cream cheese – 8 oz, softened to ensure a creamy texture.
- Feta cheese – 1/2 cup, crumbled to add a tangy richness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1/2 cup, for that delightful melty goodness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup, enhances the cheesy flavor profile.
- Garlic – 1 clove, minced for an aromatic punch.
- Onion powder – 1/4 teaspoon, brings a subtle depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper – to taste, elevates all the ingredients.
For the Pastry
- Puff pastry sheets – 1 package (1 lb), thawed; the secret to that flaky texture!
- Egg – 1, beaten for the egg wash to achieve that golden finish.
These Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese are not just easy to make—they’re a delightful treat that will wow your guests and family alike!
How to Make Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This ensures an easy release and prevents sticking.
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Combine all the filling ingredients in a large bowl: drained spinach, softened cream cheese, feta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is beautifully blended.
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Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface until they reach about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the pastry into squares measuring roughly 3×3 inches. This is where the magic starts!
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Spoon a tablespoon of the spinach filling into the center of each pastry square. Be generous—the filling is the star of these puffs!
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Fold the pastry over creating a triangle or rectangle. Press the edges firmly to seal, then use a fork to crimp the edges, giving them a lovely, decorative detail.
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Brush the tops of the prepared puffs with the beaten egg. This will create that beautiful golden color while they bake, adding a wonderful shine.
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Bake in your preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them—they’ll become irresistible!
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Cool the spinach puffs for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!
Optional: Serve with a side of tangy yogurt dip for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these tasty twists on a classic recipe!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese for a creamy texture.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the spinach filling for an aromatic uplift that brightens each bite.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to bring some heat into your puffs; it’s sure to excite the palate.
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Mushroom Medley: Mix in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the spinach beautifully, enhancing both texture and taste.
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Mini Puffs: Cut the puff pastry into smaller squares and fill them with less mixture for bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for parties.
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Pepper Varieties: Swap out the feta with pepper jack cheese for a zesty twist; it’ll add a creamy edge and a playful heat with each puff.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
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Smoked Salmon: For a gourmet upgrade, include smoked salmon in the filling; its rich flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy cheeses and spinach.
How to Store and Freeze Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese
Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Enjoy them while they’re still warm for the best flavor!
Fridge: Keep your spinach puffs in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for crispy puffiness.
Freezer: Freeze spinach puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Reheating: For perfectly reheated spinach puffs, place them in a preheated oven instead of the microwave. This helps maintain their flaky texture!
What to Serve with Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese?
Creating the perfect meal is all about balancing flavors and textures, and these savory bites are a delightful starting point.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast, helping to cut through the richness of the cheese-filled puffs. Consider a light vinaigrette for an extra zing.
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Roasted Vegetables: Think colorful roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. The caramelized edges enhance natural sweetness, making it a delightful pairing with the earthy spinach.
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Garlic Yogurt Dip: Creamy, tangy, and slightly garlicky, this dip elevates your spinach puffs into a mouthwatering appetizer. Simply mix yogurt, garlic, and a touch of lemon juice.
Indulging in these puffs will leave you wanting a side that captures their elegance. Offer your guests a chance to savor the moment!
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Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs complements the savory richness and adds a hearty, nutritious component to your meal.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink, with either a zesty lemon flavor or the sweetness of iced tea, cleanses the palate brilliantly between bites of the creamy puffs.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For a sweet end to your meal, these juicy berries provide a burst of sweetness that perfectly contrasts the savory flavors of the spinach puffs.
Make Ahead Options
These Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese are fantastic for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply combine the thawed spinach, cheeses, garlic, and spices, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the puffs and freeze them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to serve, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality snacks ready with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best results with your Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese, ensure that the spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent a soggy filling.
- When combining ingredients, mix gently to avoid breaking down the cheeses too much, which can affect texture.
- To achieve the flakiest pastry, roll out your puff pastry evenly and avoid overworking it, as this can lead to tougher puffs.
- Finally, keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens may vary; aim for a deep golden color to ensure they are fully cooked and beautifully presented.
Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best spinach for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing frozen spinach, look for packages that are labeled “chopped” and ensure they are free from dark spots or excessive ice crystals. These can indicate that the spinach is older or has been thawed and refrozen. If you’re using fresh spinach instead, select vibrant leaves without wilting or browning, and aim for around 1 pound to yield the same amount as the frozen variety.
What’s the best way to store leftover Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese?
Very! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavor and texture nicely. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy outer shell.
Can I freeze Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the assembled but uncooked puffs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw! Just bake them from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until they’re puffed and golden.
What if my puffs don’t puff up as expected?
Don’t worry; it can happen! Ensure that your puff pastry is cold when you handle it, as warmth can affect puffing. Also, give the edges a good seal to prevent filling from escaping, and avoid overcrowding them on the baking sheet, allowing space for heat circulation. Allow those lovely puffs a little space—each one deserves to shine!
Are Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese suitable for my vegetarian friend?
Yes, definitely! These puffs are vegetarian-friendly since they feature a delicious combination of vegetables and dairy. If you’re preparing for someone with dairy allergies or vegan preferences, you can substitute the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives and use a plant-based egg wash or simply skip that step for a perfectly delightful, cruelty-free treat!
Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese
Ingredients
- 10 oz Frozen chopped spinach thawed and drained
- 8 oz Cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup Feta cheese crumbled
- 1/2 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon Onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package Puff pastry sheets (1 lb), thawed
- 1 Egg beaten for egg wash
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Combine all the filling ingredients in a large bowl: drained spinach, softened cream cheese, feta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is beautifully blended.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface until they reach about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the pastry into squares measuring roughly 3x3 inches.
- Spoon a tablespoon of the spinach filling into the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the pastry over creating a triangle or rectangle. Press the edges firmly to seal, then use a fork to crimp the edges.
- Brush the tops of the prepared puffs with the beaten egg.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until they are puffed and golden brown.
- Cool the spinach puffs for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. Enjoy them warm!
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