1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the puffs from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the filling is smooth.
3. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 9 equal squares (3×3 grid). You can adjust the size of the squares based on your preference for the size of the puffs.
4. Assemble the Puffs
Place a small spoonful of the spinach and cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square. Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to create a little parcel. Pinch the edges together to seal. You can also use a fork to press down the edges, which adds a decorative touch and helps ensure they are well sealed.
5. Apply the Egg Wash
Brush the tops of the puffs with the beaten egg using a pastry brush. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked. For extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top if desired.
6. Bake the Puffs
Place the assembled puffs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up.
7. Cool and Serve
Allow the puffs to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They are delicious warm but also tasty at room temperature.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Spinach Puffs
- Thaw the Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before using to avoid tearing.
- Drain the Spinach: Make sure the spinach is well-drained to prevent the filling from becoming too watery. You can use a paper towel to squeeze out excess moisture.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as cooked bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
Variations and Substitutions
- Mushroom Spinach Puffs: Add finely chopped sautéed mushrooms to the filling for a different twist.
- Cheddar Spinach Puffs: Substitute cheddar cheese for Parmesan and mozzarella for a more robust flavor.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan puff pastry and substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make these puffs vegan-friendly.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to crisp up the pastry.
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