Introduction
Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs are the kind of appetizer that disappears the moment they hit the table. Flaky, buttery pastry filled with creamy spinach and garlic makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family snack, or want something elegant yet simple, these puffs deliver flavor, texture, and charm with minimal effort.
Ingredients & Quantities
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
7 oz baby spinach (fresh)
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 egg (for egg wash—optional but recommended)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Spinach Filling
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add baby spinach and cook until wilted.
Remove excess moisture by pressing the spinach with a spoon or towel.
Stir in the cream cheese, season with salt and pepper, and mix until creamy.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
Cut it into 9–12 equal squares.
3. Assemble the Puffs
Place a spoonful of the spinach-cream cheese filling in the center of each square.
Fold opposite corners together and pinch to seal.
Brush lightly with egg wash for a golden finish.
4. Bake
Arrange the puffs on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
5. Serve
Allow to cool slightly and serve warm.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Spinach-filled pastries appear in many global cuisines—from Greek spanakopita to Middle Eastern fatayer. Cream cheese adds a more modern Western twist, giving the filling a smooth, luxurious texture. Puff pastry itself is a French culinary classic, symbolizing elegance and celebration. These Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs blend tradition with convenience, making them a universal crowd-pleaser.
Description
Each puff is a beautiful contrast of textures: crisp, flaky pastry enveloping a warm, velvety filling made of cream cheese, garlic, and tender spinach. They look sophisticated, smell incredible, and taste even better—perfect for parties, brunches, or cozy evenings.
Optional Additions
Feta cheese for tanginess
Red pepper flakes for subtle heat
Nutmeg for a classic spinach-cream flavor
Shredded mozzarella for extra gooeyness
Chopped artichokes to turn it into a “spinach-artichoke dip” puff
Parmesan sprinkled on top before baking
Tips for Success
Squeeze out moisture from spinach—wet filling can prevent puffing.
Keep puff pastry cold until assembling.
Don’t overfill the pastries; small amounts puff best.
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Seal corners well to avoid leaks.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per puff)
Values may vary depending on size and brands used.
Calories: 130–180
Carbohydrates: 12–15g
Protein: 3–4g
Fat: 9–12g
Fiber: 1g
Calcium: Moderate from cream cheese and spinach
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs are an appetizer that combines simplicity with elegance. They’re easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and consistently impress guests with their flavor and presentation.
Recommendation
Serve these puffs warm alongside dips like garlic aioli, ranch, or a tangy marinara. They pair beautifully with tea, wine, and festive gatherings.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While rich and flaky, these puffs also incorporate nutrient-packed spinach and garlic. Enjoying them in moderation offers a perfect balance between indulgence and wholesome ingredients—proof that delicious food can still be part of a mindful lifestyle.