Save Pin Flaky, golden puff pastry bites filled with a blend of cheeses and aromatic spices—a perfect, crowd-pleasing appetizer for any gathering.
I first served these cheese and spice puff pastry bites at a family gathering and they disappeared within minutes.
Ingredients
- Grated cheddar cheese: 100 g
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 50 g
- Egg (beaten, for egg wash): 1
- Ready-rolled puff pastry (all-butter recommended), thawed if frozen: 1 sheet (about 250 g)
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Chili flakes (optional, for heat): 1/4 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Mix ingredients:
- In a bowl, mix grated cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, oregano, black pepper, chili flakes (if using), and salt.
- Prepare pastry:
- Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Evenly sprinkle the cheese and spice mixture over the entire surface.
- Press mixture:
- Gently press the mixture into the pastry with a rolling pin to help it adhere.
- Cut pastry:
- Cut the pastry into 24 equal squares or rectangles using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
- Arrange bites:
- Place the pieces onto the prepared baking tray, leaving a little space between each.
- Apply egg wash:
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15 18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Cool:
- Transfer the bites to a wire rack and let cool slightly before serving.
Save Pin My family especially loves enjoying these bites during weekend get-togethers, often paired with a light herbed yogurt dip.
Notes
Add a pinch of cumin or curry powder for an extra kick. Serve with a spicy tomato chutney.
Required Tools
Baking tray, parchment paper, mixing bowl, rolling pin, sharp knife or pizza cutter, pastry brush.
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheese), Egg, Gluten (puff pastry). May contain traces of nuts or soy (check pastry packaging). Always verify ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Save Pin
These puff pastry bites combine ease and flavor for an appetizer that will impress every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheeses work best for these puff bites?
Sharp cheddar and Parmesan provide a rich, savory flavor, but you can also try Gruyère or Emmental for a creamy texture.
- → Can I add heat to the puff bites?
Yes, adding chili flakes or a pinch of cumin or curry powder can bring a nice spicy kick to the flavor profile.
- → How should I bake these bites for the best texture?
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes until puffed and golden brown to achieve a flaky, crisp texture.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these bites?
Light herbed yogurt dips, spicy tomato chutney, or even a tangy mustard sauce complement the savory richness perfectly.
- → Can these be prepared in advance?
Yes, they can be made ahead and gently reheated in the oven before serving to maintain their crispness.