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Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Squares Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 9 squares
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Squares are a delightful appetizer featuring flaky, golden puff pastry filled with a creamy, savory mixture of cream cheese and sour cream, accented by a sweet and spicy pepper jelly topping. Easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining, these bite-sized squares combine rich flavors and a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests.


Ingredients

Scale

Puff Pastry Base

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Cream Cheese Mixture

  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Filling and Garnish

  • 1/2 cup (120g) pepper jelly (red or green, depending on preference)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Prepare Puff Pastry Squares: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a clean, flat surface. Cut the pastry into 9 equal squares arranged in a 3×3 grid to create evenly sized pieces.
  3. Mix Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped chives if using, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and uniformly blended.
  4. Assemble Filling on Pastry: Spread a small spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each puff pastry square, leaving about a half-inch border around each edge to allow room for folding.
  5. Add Pepper Jelly: On top of the cream cheese layer in the center of each square, place a spoonful of pepper jelly to add a sweet and spicy contrast to the creamy filling.
  6. Fold and Seal Edges: Gently fold the edges of each puff pastry square slightly over the filling, creating a small crust border. Brush the exposed edges with the beaten egg to help achieve a golden brown, shiny finish during baking.
  7. Bake: Arrange the prepared puff pastry squares on the lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
  8. Cool and Garnish: Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired to add color and freshness.
  9. Serve: Serve warm as an appetizer or snack and enjoy the delicious combination of flaky pastry, creamy cheese, and flavorful pepper jelly.

Notes

  • For best results, ensure the puff pastry is thoroughly thawed but still cold when working with it to prevent sticking and tearing.
  • If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for green pepper jelly instead of red.
  • These squares can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving to maintain freshness.
  • Leftover puff pastry squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and gently reheated in the oven.
  • You can omit chives and parsley for a simpler flavor or to accommodate dietary restrictions.