Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese

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Introduction

Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese are savory, flaky, and irresistibly delicious. These bite-sized treats are filled with a creamy spinach mixture, wrapped in a golden puff pastry shell that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The combination of the rich cream cheese, vibrant spinach, and a touch of seasoning makes these puffs perfect as appetizers, party snacks, or a light meal.

I remember the first time I made these for a family gathering. The warm, buttery aroma filled the kitchen, and as soon as they hit the table, they disappeared within minutes. What I love about spinach puffs is their versatility—you can keep them classic with the spinach and cream cheese filling or get creative by adding ingredients like garlic, feta, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. They’re also great served with a dipping sauce, like marinara, ranch, or even a spicy aioli, to elevate them further.

These puffs are surprisingly easy to make. With just a few basic ingredients and store-bought puff pastry, you can whip up a batch in no time. They’re the perfect make-ahead treat, too—simply assemble them, freeze, and bake when needed. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an impressive appetizer, or just treating yourself to a delicious snack, Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese are always a crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

• Parties and gatherings
• Game day snacks
• Holiday appetizers
• Brunch or light lunch
• Make-ahead snacks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese are sure to be a hit:

• Creamy and Flavorful Filling: The rich cream cheese combined with spinach creates a savory filling that’s both smooth and packed with flavor.
• Flaky Puff Pastry: The puff pastry provides a perfect contrast, flaky and light, adding the right amount of crunch.
• Quick and Easy: These puffs come together quickly, making them ideal for last-minute parties or gatherings.
• Versatile Snack: Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or even as a vegetarian main course for a light meal.
• Perfect for Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the puffs just before baking.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 12 puffs
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese:

For the Filling:

• 10 oz fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

For the Pastry:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Spinach: A nutrient-packed green vegetable that adds a rich, earthy flavor to the puffs.
• Cream Cheese and Ricotta: These cheeses create a smooth, creamy filling with a slight tanginess.
• Parmesan: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the filling.
• Puff Pastry: Provides a light, flaky texture that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Sauté the Spinach: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach) and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out excess water before sautéing.
2. Mix the Cheeses and Seasonings: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Spinach with Cheese Mixture: Add the sautéed spinach to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set the filling aside.

Prepare the Pastry:

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth out any creases. Cut the sheet into 12 equal squares (about 3×3 inches each).
6. Fill the Pastry: Place a spoonful of the spinach and cream cheese mixture in the center of each square. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a pocket or triangle shape. Press the edges to seal the puff tightly.
7. Optional Egg Wash: If desired, brush the tops of the puffs with a beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish.

Bake the Puffs:

8. Bake the Puffs: Place the filled puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and puffed up.
9. Cool Slightly and Serve: Allow the puffs to cool for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm.

How to Serve

• As a Party Snack: Serve the spinach puffs as a finger food at parties or gatherings.
• With a Dipping Sauce: Pair with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch, tzatziki, or marinara for extra flavor.
• As a Light Meal: Serve with a side salad for a light lunch or dinner.
• With Drinks: Perfect with chilled white wine, sparkling water, or iced tea.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Assemble the puffs just before baking.
• Frozen Spinach: Be sure to drain frozen spinach well to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
• Puff Pastry Substitutes: If you don’t have puff pastry, phyllo dough can also work, though it will have a different texture.
• Vegan Option: Swap the cream cheese, ricotta, and Parmesan for vegan cheese alternatives and use plant-based puff pastry.

Recipe Variations

1. Cheddar and Spinach Puffs – Add sharp cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
2. Garlic Herb Spinach Puffs – Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
3. Mushroom and Spinach Puffs – Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the spinach filling for a heartier option.
4. Spicy Spinach Puffs – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño for some heat.
5. Feta and Spinach Puffs – Use feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
6. Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach Puffs – Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for added depth.
7. Caramelized Onion Spinach Puffs – Mix in some caramelized onions for a sweet and savory touch.
8. Spinach and Ricotta Puffs with Nutmeg – A touch of nutmeg can complement the spinach and ricotta beautifully.
9. Spinach and Artichoke Puffs – Add artichoke hearts for a spin on the classic dip.
10. Pine Nut and Spinach Puffs – Add toasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked puffs. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes.
• Storage: Store leftover baked puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Special Equipment

• Electric mixer (for mixing the filling)
• Rolling pin (for puff pastry)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Knife (for cutting the puff pastry)

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen puff pastry? Yes, frozen puff pastry works perfectly. Just thaw it according to package instructions.
2. Can I make these puffs ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare and refrigerate the filling ahead of time.
3. Can I make these gluten-free? Look for gluten-free puff pastry or try making your own gluten-free dough.
4. Can I use a different green? You can substitute the spinach with kale, chard, or arugula for a different flavor.
5. Can I freeze the baked puffs? Yes, baked puffs can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven to crisp them up again.

Conclusion

Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese are a delightful way to enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, savory filling and flaky, golden pastry. These bite-sized treats are irresistibly delicious, combining tender spinach and rich cream cheese inside a perfectly crisp puff pastry shell.

Whether you’re making them for a party, a quick snack, or a light meal, Spinach Puffs are a versatile option that’s sure to impress. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these little pastries are as perfect for casual gatherings as they are for festive celebrations.

I’d love to see how your Spinach Puffs with Cream Cheese turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your flaky, creamy creations. Happy baking!