The Flakiest Spinach Puffs Recipe: Simple Yet Savory Bites

Magic sometimes happens in unexpected kitchen moments with these delightful spinach puffs that blend crispy pastry and creamy green goodness.

Buttery layers of golden phyllo cradle a savory filling packed with rich flavors.

Delicate and light, these little bites surprise everyone who tastes them.

Mediterranean culinary traditions inspire this elegant appetizer that looks impressive yet comes together quickly.

Each puff promises a delectable combination of herbs and cheese nestled within flaky pastry.

Small gatherings or big celebrations welcome these irresistible treats that vanish faster than you can plate them.

Peek into your pantry and let the culinary adventure begin!

Spinach Puffs That Make A Perfect Appetizer

• Quick and Easy Appetizer: Whip up these delightful spinach puffs in less than 40 minutes, perfect for spontaneous gatherings or last-minute snack cravings.
• Foolproof Cooking Method: Follow simple step-by-step instructions that guarantee success even for novice home cooks, with minimal kitchen skills required.
• Versatile Party Pleaser: Impress guests with elegant-looking pastries that taste gourmet but are surprisingly straightforward to prepare, suitable for brunches, potlucks, or cocktail parties.
• Customizable Flavor Profile: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping bacon for ham, adding different herbs, or creating vegetarian versions to suit various dietary preferences and taste buds.

What’s Inside Spinach Puffs

• Puff Pastry Sheet: Delicate, flaky foundation for the spinach puffs. Look for all-butter variety for best flavor and texture.
• Melted Butter: Adds golden shine and extra richness to the pastry tops.

• Cream Cheese: Creamy base that binds ingredients together. Select full-fat version for best consistency.
• Egg: Provides structure and helps bind the filling.
• Feta Cheese: Tangy cheese that adds sharp flavor. Choose crumbled Greek-style feta.
• Bacon: Adds smoky, salty depth to the filling. Opt for crispy pre-cooked bacon bits.

• Spinach: Fresh green vegetable that forms the main filling. Use fresh or well-drained frozen spinach.
• Olive Oil: Adds moisture and subtle flavor to the mixture.
• Dill: Fresh herb that brings brightness to the dish. Use fresh or dried dill.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance overall flavor.
• Cooking Spray: Helps prevent sticking in the muffin pan.

Spinach Puffs – How to Prepare

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 400°F.

Grab a muffin pan and give it a quick spritz of cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese

Zap the cream cheese in the microwave, hitting it with 10-second bursts until it becomes silky smooth.

Whisk in the egg, olive oil, and dill until the mixture looks creamy and well-blended.

Step 3: Create the Filling

• Fresh spinach
• Crumbled feta
• Crispy bacon

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the top and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Give everything a good mix with a fork until it’s perfectly combined.

Step 4: Shape the Pastry

Unfold your puff pastry sheet and slice it into 9 equal squares.

Gently stretch each square to fit into the muffin cups, pressing them down to create a nice base.

Step 5: Fill and Seal

Spoon the spinach mixture evenly into each pastry-lined cup.

Gather the four corners of each pastry square, pinching them together to create a cute little package that seals in all the delicious filling.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch

Brush the tops of your puffs with melted butter for a golden, glossy finish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the muffin pan into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.

Watch for a beautiful golden color and puffy texture.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the puffs rest for 10 minutes.

Run a knife around the edges to help them pop out easily.

Serve these warm, crispy delights and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Spinach Puff Tips For Perfect Flake

• Microwave in short 10-second bursts to prevent overheating, ensuring smooth and creamy texture without burning.
• Swap bacon for vegetarian alternatives like sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms to accommodate different dietary preferences.
• Gently stretch puff pastry squares to fit muffin cups, avoiding tears and ensuring even coverage for crispy, golden results.
• Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting the mixture to prevent over-salting and maintain a delicate flavor profile.
• Press pastry points firmly together when folding to prevent filling from leaking during baking, creating neat and attractive spinach puffs.

Spinach Puffs That Puff Up Again in the Oven

• Store leftover spinach puffs in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual puffs tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place puffs on a baking sheet and warm for 10-12 minutes until crispy and heated through.
• Warm puffs for 30-45 seconds, but note they might lose some crispiness compared to oven reheating.

What To Enjoy With Spinach Puffs

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a zesty sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to complement the creamy, rich spinach puffs. The wine's bright acidity cuts through the pastry's buttery texture and balances the salty feta and bacon.
• Serve with Fresh Herb Salad: Create a light mixed green salad with delicate herbs like parsley, chives, and basil. Dress with a light lemon vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the dense, cheesy puffs.
• Match with Tangy Dipping Sauce: Whip up a quick tzatziki or herbed Greek yogurt sauce. The cool, creamy condiment will enhance the warm puffs and add an extra layer of flavor complexity.
• Complement with Sparkling Water: Choose a citrus-infused sparkling water to cleanse the palate between bites. The effervescence will help cut through the richness of the spinach puffs and provide a light, refreshing accompaniment.

Spinach Puff Versions

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace puff pastry with gluten-free puff pastry or almond flour-based pastry dough. Ensure all ingredients like feta and bacon are certified gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Spinach Puffs: Substitute bacon with caramelized mushrooms or roasted pine nuts. Add extra herbs like thyme or parsley for enhanced flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Option: Use thin sliced zucchini as pastry replacement. Wrap spinach mixture in zucchini rounds and bake until edges are crispy and golden.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Use dairy-free feta substitute and olive oil instead of butter for brushing.

FAQs

• Are spinach puffs healthy?

While delicious, spinach puffs are a rich appetizer with calories from pastry, cream cheese, and bacon. They offer some nutritional benefits from spinach and can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

• Can I make spinach puffs vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon and replace it with additional feta cheese or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. The recipe will still taste delicious without meat.

• What type of pastry works best for spinach puffs?

Puff pastry is ideal because it creates a light, flaky texture. Use store-bought frozen puff pastry sheets for convenience. Ensure the pastry is thawed but still cold when working with it for the best results.

• How do I prevent my spinach puffs from becoming soggy?

Drain excess moisture from the spinach thoroughly before mixing with other ingredients. Use frozen spinach and squeeze out water completely, or pat fresh spinach dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid.

Spinach Puffs Recipe

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4.8 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Delightful Spinach Puffs bring Mediterranean charm to your appetizer spread with flaky, golden pastry embracing rich, herbed spinach. Crisp edges and creamy filling make these irresistible bites perfect for sharing during casual gatherings or elegant parties.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped and packed
• 3/4 cup crumbled feta
• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed

Dairy and Binding Ingredients:

• 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) butter, melted

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
• 2 teaspoons bacon bits
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C), preparing a muffin pan with a light cooking spray coating.
2. Transform cream cheese into a silky smooth texture through quick microwave pulses, ensuring it’s soft but not scalding.
3. Whisk the softened cream cheese with egg, olive oil, and fragrant dill until the mixture becomes uniform and creamy.
4. Create a rustic filling by combining crispy bacon bits, crumbled feta, and vibrant spinach in a mixing bowl.
5. Pour the cream cheese blend over the spinach mixture, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Gently fold ingredients together using a fork to distribute flavors evenly.
6. Skillfully slice the pastry sheet into nine equal squares, carefully draping each piece into the muffin cups, gently stretching to ensure complete coverage of the pan’s contours.
7. Distribute the spinach mixture precisely among the pastry-lined cups, then elegantly fold the pastry corners toward the center, pinching points to create a delicate seal.
8. Apply a light brushing of melted butter across the pastry tops for a golden, glossy finish.
9. Slide the pan into the preheated oven, baking for approximately 20 minutes until the puffs transform into puffy, golden treasures.
10. Allow the puffs to rest and cool for 10 minutes, then carefully release them from the pan using a knife’s gentle guidance.
11. Serve these delectable spinach puffs while still warm, inviting guests to savor the crisp, flavorful bites.

Notes

• Prep Ahead: Prepare the spinach mixture up to a day in advance and store covered in the refrigerator to save time during cooking.
• Vegetarian Twist: Skip the bacon for a meat-free version that’s equally delicious and packed with flavor.
• Pastry Pro Tip: Keep the puff pastry chilled until just before use to ensure maximum flakiness and prevent sticking.
• Texture Trick: Don’t overmix the spinach filling to maintain a light, airy texture that complements the crispy pastry.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg