If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleaser that’s both elegant and incredibly easy to pull together, this Cream Cheese and Parmesan Puff Pastry Appetizer Recipe is an absolute gem. Picture flaky, buttery puff pastry wrapped around a luscious, whipped chive cream cheese filling, with the nutty tang of parmesan sprinkled throughout. It’s a perfect balance of creamy and crisp in every bite, guaranteed to become your go-to appetizer for parties, weekend snacks, or whenever you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things refreshingly simple but every ingredient plays a starring role to ensure that perfect harmony of flavor and texture. From the flaky puff pastry that crisps beautifully to the flavorful kick of chive cream cheese and parmesan, you’ll see how just a handful can create a gourmet bite.
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed: The flaky, buttery base that crisps up golden and light in the oven.
- 7.5 ounces whipped chive cream cheese softened: Brings a creamy, herbaceous layer that melts delightfully with every bite.
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty note that balances the cream cheese perfectly.
- 1 large egg: Used for the egg wash, it gives the pastry a luscious golden sheen as it bakes.
- Splash of water: Mixed with the egg to make the wash easy to brush on and smooth in texture.
- Thinly sliced fresh chives for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and subtle onion flavor to finish.
How to Make Cream Cheese and Parmesan Puff Pastry Appetizer Recipe
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it warms up, line a sheet tray with parchment paper to ensure your pastry bakes evenly and doesn’t stick. This simple prep step sets you up for a flawless bake and easy clean-up.
Step 2: Roll and Fill the Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry until it measures roughly 14 by 10 inches. Spread softened whipped chive cream cheese over the pastry, leaving about an inch clear on one long edge farthest from you; this will make rolling easier. Then generously sprinkle grated parmesan cheese evenly on top to add that irresistible savory punch.
Step 3: Form the Log and Cut Slits
Carefully roll the long edge nearest to you toward the opposite edge, creating a tight log. Pinch the seam closed to keep the filling secure during baking. Then place the log onto your prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp kitchen knife or clean scissors, cut slits about every inch down the log, slicing about three-quarters deep but leaving the bottom intact so the log stays whole.
Step 4: Twist the Strips
Starting at the top of the log, gently pull alternating cut sections outward to create pointed twists on either side. This twisting not only looks visually striking but it helps expose the filling, allowing each piece to bake with crispy edges and gooey cheese inside — pure magic in every bite.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Whisk the egg with a splash of water to make an egg wash and brush it evenly over the twisted pastry. This gives the appetizer that gorgeous golden color and glossy finish. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until puffed up and beautifully golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving so the filling sets just enough to enjoy without the risk of burns.
How to Serve Cream Cheese and Parmesan Puff Pastry Appetizer Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly sliced chives sprinkled over the top add a subtle pop of green and a mild oniony freshness that perfectly complements the richness inside. For extra flavor, you could also serve with a small bowl of marinara or a dash of cracked black pepper for a bit of kick.
Side Dishes
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, balancing the flaky richness. Consider a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette that will brighten up your appetizer spread and keep things feeling fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the twisted pastry log whole on a rustic wooden board for a communal experience or slice into individual twists for elegant finger food. You can even arrange each piece upright in a pretty platter to create a beautiful “forest” of flaky cheese twists, making your guests eager to dive in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they never seem to last), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the pastry crisp and the filling fresh enough to enjoy.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pastry log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then proceed with the cutting, twisting, and baking for a fresh-baked treat anytime.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This helps crisp the pastry back up while warming the cheese filling, restoring much of that just-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of whipped?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s softened so it spreads easily. Whipped cream cheese just makes the filling a bit lighter and easier to spread.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since it uses cream cheese and parmesan. Just be sure to use parmesan labeled vegetarian if you’re concerned about rennet.
Can I add other herbs to the cream cheese filling?
Definitely! Fresh dill, parsley, or even a little garlic powder can add wonderful flavor twists. Just keep it balanced so the creamy cheese shines.
What if my puff pastry tears while rolling?
No worries! Patch small tears by pinching the dough together gently. If the tear is large, rolling out a bit beyond the specified size can help prevent breaks.
Can this appetizer be made gluten-free?
Traditional puff pastry contains gluten, but there are gluten-free puff pastry options available that could work. Just follow the package’s thawing and baking directions for best results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s simple yet feels special, this Cream Cheese and Parmesan Puff Pastry Appetizer Recipe is a sensory delight with very little effort. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something tasty and flaky. Give it a try — I promise this will become one of your favorite appetizers to prepare and share!
Print
Cream Cheese and Parmesan Puff Pastry Appetizer Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Appetizers are a deliciously flaky and savory treat perfect for parties or snack time. Featuring whipped chive cream cheese and parmesan wrapped in golden puff pastry, they offer a perfect balance of creamy and crispy textures. Easy to prepare and visually impressive, these appetizers are sure to delight your guests.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry and Filling
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed per package directions
- 7.5 ounces whipped chive cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- Splash of water
Garnish (optional)
- Thinly sliced fresh chives
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Tray: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sheet tray with parchment paper. Set aside to prepare your pastry.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry and Add Filling: Lightly dust a clean work surface with flour and roll out the thawed puff pastry to a 14×10 inch rectangle. Spread the softened whipped chive cream cheese evenly over the surface, leaving about a 1-inch bare border along one long edge farthest from you. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Roll and Seal the Pastry Log: Starting from the long edge closest to you, tightly roll the puff pastry toward the opposite edge with the bare border. Pinch the seam closed carefully to keep the filling enclosed.
- Cut Slits in the Log: Place the rolled log on the prepared sheet tray. Using a sharp kitchen knife or clean scissors, make cuts about every 1 inch down the length of the log, cutting approximately ¾ of the way through but keeping the bottom intact to maintain the structure.
- Create the Puff Pastry Points: Beginning at the top of the log, alternately pull the cut sections outward in opposite directions to create a twisted, pointed effect down the length of the pastry log. This helps expose the filling and creates an attractive design.
- Brush with Egg Wash and Bake: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 large egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush the entire log with this mixture to ensure a golden, shiny finish after baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Let the baked puff pastry cool slightly before garnishing with thinly sliced fresh chives if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delightful appetizer.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is thoroughly thawed before rolling to prevent cracking or tearing.
- Use a light dusting of flour when rolling out the pastry to avoid sticking.
- Pinching the seam tightly is crucial to keep the filling sealed during baking.
- The slits should not cut all the way through to keep the log intact.
- For a stronger chive flavor, add extra chopped fresh chives to the cream cheese.
- These appetizers can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
