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### How to Make Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs
#### Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Filling
1. Begin by thawing the frozen spinach and squeezing out any excess moisture. This is an important step, as too much moisture can cause the puffs to become soggy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spinach, softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Unroll the puff pastry sheets on a clean surface. If they’re too large, you can cut them into squares or rectangles, depending on the size of the puffs you want to make. Each sheet should be cut into 9 or 12 equal squares for bite-sized portions.
3. Spoon a small amount of the spinach and cream cheese mixture (about 1 tablespoon) into the center of each puff pastry square.
#### Step 3: Fold and Seal the Puffs
1. Fold the corners of each puff pastry square to the center, creating a little pocket. You can also fold the edges over in a triangle or rectangular shape, depending on your preference.
2. Press the edges to seal the pastry and form a little packet. If needed, you can use a fork to crimp the edges for a more decorative seal.
#### Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash
1. Once all the puffs are assembled, brush each one with a thin layer of beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
#### Step 5: Bake the Puffs
1. Arrange the puffs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching each other.
2. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up.
3. Keep a close eye on them toward the end, as puff pastry can brown quickly.
#### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
1. Once baked, remove the spinach puffs from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for a pop of color and extra flavor.
3. Serve these puffs warm, and watch them disappear as guests enjoy every bite!
### Tips for Success
– **Use Fresh Spinach**: If you prefer to use fresh spinach instead of frozen, sauté the spinach in a bit of olive oil until wilted, then squeeze out the moisture and chop it finely before adding to the cream cheese mixture.
– **Make-Ahead Option**: These puffs can be assembled a day ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
– **Add a Flavor Twist**: Feel free to mix in other ingredients to suit your taste. A bit of crumbled feta cheese, cooked bacon bits, or even a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor of these spinach puffs.
– **Watch the Baking Time**: Puff pastry can brown quickly, so keep an eye on the puffs during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overbaking.
### Why These Spinach Puffs Are a Hit
Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs offer a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the crispy, buttery puff pastry, making each bite an irresistible combination of savory goodness. They’re small, portable, and easy to eat with one hand, making them ideal for party settings or casual gatherings. Plus, they can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a snack, which means they’re incredibly versatile.
### Conclusion
**Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs** are the ideal appetizer for any gathering, whether it’s a holiday celebration, a birthday party, or a casual get-together. These little bites are full of flavor and provide the perfect combination of creamy, savory spinach filling and flaky puff pastry. Quick to make, easy to customize, and always a crowd favorite, these puffs will surely be the highlight of your next event. Make a batch today, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow!
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