Description
These Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Squares are a delightful appetizer perfect for gatherings. Flaky puff pastry squares are topped with a creamy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and chives, then layered with sweet and spicy pepper jelly, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry and Filling
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 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
- 1/2 cup (120g) pepper jelly (red or green, depending on preference)
Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 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 easy cleanup.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet on a clean surface and cut it into 9 equal squares by creating a 3×3 grid. This shapes the base for your appetizers.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped chives (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Pastry Squares: Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each puff pastry square, leaving a border around the edges to allow for puffing during baking.
- Add Pepper Jelly: Spoon a generous amount of pepper jelly directly onto the cream cheese mixture in each square, enhancing the flavor with a sweet and spicy kick.
- Fold & Egg Wash: Gently fold the edges of each pastry square slightly over the filling to create a small crust. Brush the edges with beaten egg to achieve a beautifully golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Arrange the pastry squares on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until the pastries are puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool & Garnish: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, adding a touch of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve these delicious puff pastry squares warm as a perfect party appetizer or snack. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use either red or green pepper jelly according to your flavor preference for a spicy or sweeter note.
- The chives are optional but add a nice fresh herbal flavor; omit for a milder taste.
- Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed before cutting and assembling to avoid tearing.
- The egg wash gives the pastry a beautiful golden color; do not skip this step for best presentation.
- These squares are best served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated before serving.
