Irresistible Pesto Cream Cheese Puff Spirals Recipe

Recipe By:
Jennifer Shear
Updated:

There’s something magical about the aroma of baking pastry that dances through the air, whispering sweet nothings to your taste buds. Imagine a warm, flaky puff pastry spiraling with vibrant green pesto and smooth cream cheese—a delightful combination that not only tastes divine but also looks like a culinary masterpiece. Pesto cream cheese puff spirals are the kind of dish that makes you feel like a gourmet chef without having to don a beret or wield a whisk like a baton.

This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories. Picture Saturday afternoons when friends gather for brunch, laughter mingling with the scent of freshly baked goods. These spirals take center stage on your table, making everyone’s mouths water in anticipation. Trust me; once you bite into these heavenly treats, they’ll transport you back to those glorious moments of joy and celebration.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These pesto cream cheese puff spirals are incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
  • The flavor profile offers a delightful balance of creamy and herbaceous notes that will impress your guests.
  • Visually, they resemble little works of art—perfectly spiraled and golden brown.
  • Their versatility allows them to shine at brunches, parties, or even as an afternoon snack!

Ingredients for Pesto cream cheese puff spirals

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Puff Pastry Sheets: Use frozen puff pastry sheets for ease; they create that flaky texture everyone loves.

  • Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor and smoothest texture.

  • Pesto Sauce: Fresh basil pesto adds vibrancy; store-bought works too if herbs aren’t in season.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for maximum flavor; it really elevates the dish.

  • Egg Wash: Simply beat an egg with water to give your spirals a beautiful golden finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Pesto cream cheese puff spirals

How to Make Pesto cream cheese puff spirals

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While waiting for it to reach temperature, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your pastries won’t stick like they owe you money.

Step 2: Prepare Puff Pastry

Take out your puff pastry sheets from the freezer and let them thaw according to package instructions—usually about 30 minutes. Once thawed, roll out each sheet on a lightly floured surface until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Filling

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese with pesto sauce until well blended. Add grated Parmesan and mix again until you’ve got a luscious filling that could make even plain toast jealous.

Step 4: Assemble Spirals

Spread an even layer of the cream cheese-pesto mixture over each puff pastry sheet. Roll up each sheet tightly into a log and slice into even spirals—about one inch thick should do it unless you want giant spirals that take over your plate.

Step 5: Brush & Bake

Place each spiral onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them (they need room to grow). Brush each one generously with egg wash for that golden glow and pop them into your preheated oven.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and puffed up like little clouds of deliciousness. Let them cool slightly before serving because nobody wants to burn their tongue on culinary heaven.

Transfer to plates and serve warm alongside marinara or more pesto if you’re feeling extra saucy!

Now that you’ve got this fantastic recipe under your belt, get ready for compliments from friends who will surely ask how you became such a culinary wizard!

You Must Know

  • These delightful pesto cream cheese puff spirals offer a burst of flavor and fun, turning any gathering into a gourmet experience.
  • Their flaky texture and creamy filling make them irresistible, perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
  • Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To whip up these pesto cream cheese puff spirals, start by preheating your oven. Roll out the puff pastry while mixing the cream cheese with pesto. Spread this mixture evenly, roll tightly, slice into spirals, and bake until golden brown for the best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your pesto cream cheese puff spirals! Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy punch or mixing in some grated parmesan for extra richness. You can even swap out the pesto for roasted red pepper spread if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pesto cream cheese puff spirals in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy again.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Keep your puff pastry cold; it puffs better!
  • When rolling, don’t overwork the dough to maintain its flakiness.
  • Lastly, brush with egg wash before baking for that golden finish.

Sharing these delicious pesto cream cheese puff spirals at a friend’s party was unforgettable; everyone went back for seconds, and I felt like a culinary rock star that night!

FAQs

What are Pesto cream cheese puff spirals?

Pesto cream cheese puff spirals are a delicious appetizer made by combining creamy pesto and cream cheese, rolled in puff pastry. They offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for gatherings or as a snack. The buttery, flaky pastry complements the rich, herby filling, creating a crowd-pleasing dish that can be served warm or at room temperature. These spirals are easy to prepare, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks.

How do I store leftover Pesto cream cheese puff spirals?

To store leftover pesto cream cheese puff spirals, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each spiral tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the frozen spirals in an oven at 350°F until heated through for the best texture.

Can I customize the filling for Pesto cream cheese puff spirals?

Yes! You can easily customize the filling for your pesto cream cheese puff spirals. Consider adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted red peppers for additional flavor. If you prefer a different herb profile, you can use basil pesto or even sun-dried tomato pesto as alternatives. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses as well; goat cheese or mozzarella can add unique tastes to your spirals.

How long does it take to prepare Pesto cream cheese puff spirals?

Preparing pesto cream cheese puff spirals typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing the filling, rolling out the pastry, and cutting it into spirals. Baking time usually ranges from 15 to 20 minutes, depending on your oven’s performance. These timelines make this recipe a quick and enjoyable option for any occasion when you need a tasty appetizer.

Conclusion for Pesto cream cheese puff spirals

Pesto cream cheese puff spirals are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile and flavorful. With their flaky pastry and rich filling, they provide a perfect bite-sized treat suitable for any gathering or casual snack time. Customize the filling to suit your tastes and enjoy serving these delicious spirals warm or at room temperature. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick appetizer, these delightful treats will surely impress your guests while being simple enough for any home cook to master.

Print

Pesto Cream Cheese Puff Spirals

Pesto cream cheese puff spirals are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines flaky puff pastry with a rich, creamy filling of basil pesto and cream cheese. These golden-brown spirals are not only easy to make but also add a gourmet touch to any gathering. Perfect for brunches, parties, or as a delightful snack, they’re sure to impress your guests with their vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed)
  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/4 cup basil pesto
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry until smooth.
  3. In a bowl, mix together softened cream cheese and pesto until well combined. Stir in grated Parmesan.
  4. Spread the cream cheese-pesto mixture evenly over the puff pastry. Roll tightly into a log and slice into 1-inch spirals.
  5. Place spirals on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Brush each with beaten egg.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 spiral (30g)
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the filling. To achieve maximum flakiness, keep the puff pastry cold while working with it.

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