Cheesy Spinach Pastry Triangles

This golden-brown spinach puff recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant appetizer that never fails to impress guests. The flaky layers of pastry combined with the creamy spinach filling create the perfect bite-sized treat for any gathering.

I first made these cream cheese spinach puffs for a last-minute holiday gathering when I needed something impressive with minimal effort. They disappeared within minutes, and now they're my go-to recipe whenever I need a reliable crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• Puff pastry: Thawed overnight in the refrigerator ensures the best texture and easiest handling
• Cream cheese: Softened at room temperature for at least 30 minutes for the smoothest filling
• Fresh spinach: Finely chopped provides better flavor than frozen varieties
• Beaten egg: Creates that irresistible golden shine on the baked pastries
• Garlic powder: Infuses the filling with aromatic flavor without overpowering the delicate spinach
• Salt and pepper: Balance and enhance all the flavors in the filling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Heat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless. Position your oven rack in the middle for the most even baking.

Mix the Filling:

Combine softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed. The filling should be creamy but still have visible flecks of green spinach throughout.

Prepare the Pastry:

Unfold the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into even squares about 3 inches wide. Keep the pastry cool while working with it to maintain its layered structure. If it becomes too warm, place it in the refrigerator for 5 minutes before continuing.

Fill and Shape:

Place a generous tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square. Avoid overfilling or the pastry may open during baking. Fold one corner over to the opposite corner to form triangles, then press the edges firmly with a fork to seal completely.

Finish and Bake:

Brush each pastry triangle generously with beaten egg to create a glossy golden finish. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the pastries have puffed up and turned a beautiful golden brown color.

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The first time I served these at a family dinner, my mother-in-law requested the recipe immediately. She claimed they were better than the spinach puffs from her favorite bakery, which might be the greatest compliment my cooking has ever received.

Make Ahead Options

These spinach puffs offer excellent flexibility for entertaining. You can prepare the filling up to three days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, assemble the entire pastries a day before, cover them with plastic wrap on the baking sheet, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply brush with egg wash and bake. The cold pastries may need an extra 2-3 minutes in the oven.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

These cream cheese spinach puffs complement nearly any menu but shine especially alongside light soups or salads. Try serving them with a tomato bisque for a delightful lunch combination. For cocktail parties, pair them with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio to balance the richness of the pastry and filling.

Creative Variations

While the classic recipe is perfect as is, you can easily customize these puffs to suit different preferences. Add a quarter cup of crumbled feta cheese to the filling for a Mediterranean twist. Replace the spinach with sautéed mushrooms for an earthier flavor profile. For a bit of heat, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of finely diced jalapeño. Each variation maintains the ease of the original while offering a new flavor experience.

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These spinach puffs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser and effortless to prepare. Make them for your next gathering and watch them disappear!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these spinach puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the puffs up to 24 hours ahead. Assemble them, place on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Brush with egg wash just before baking. You can also freeze uncooked puffs for up to 1 month - bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for spinach?

Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula work well as spinach alternatives. For a different flavor profile, try using artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions. Just ensure whatever substitute you choose has minimal moisture to prevent soggy pastry.

→ How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

To prevent leaks, avoid overfilling your pastry squares - about 1-1.5 teaspoons of filling is sufficient. Be sure to properly seal the edges with a fork, pressing firmly. Additionally, chilling the assembled puffs for 15 minutes before baking helps the pastry set and maintain its shape.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well as a substitute. Thaw completely and squeeze out all excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels before mixing with the cream cheese. About 1/3 cup of thawed, squeezed frozen spinach equals 1 cup of fresh chopped spinach.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these puffs?

These cream cheese spinach puffs pair beautifully with several dipping options. Try honey mustard, sweet chili sauce, marinara, tzatziki, or a simple lemon-garlic aioli. For a spicy kick, sriracha mayo works wonderfully, while balsamic glaze adds a sweet-tangy complement.

→ How do I reheat leftover puffs?

For the best texture, reheat leftover puffs in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the pastry soggy. If you must use a microwave, heat at 50% power in 15-second intervals and finish under a broiler for a minute to restore some crispness.