Cheesy Bacon Puff Pastry Snails are the perfect bite-sized treats for any occasion. The combination of crispy, flaky puff pastry with savory bacon and melted cheese makes for an irresistible snack or appetizer. These snails are easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients, yet they deliver big on flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a family gathering, or just craving a savory treat, these cheesy bacon puff pastry snails are sure to be a hit.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 100g (3.5 oz) bacon, cooked and chopped into small pieces
- 100g (3.5 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
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Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. If you’re using pre-rolled puff pastry, just unroll it directly onto the surface.
- Lightly score the pastry into equal-sized strips (about 1.5 inches wide) to make it easier to roll.
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain the excess fat and chop the bacon into small pieces.
- In a small bowl, mix the chopped bacon with the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and chopped parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Assemble the Snails:
- Spread the bacon and cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Starting from one edge, roll the pastry tightly to form a log. Once rolled, slice the log into 1-inch thick rounds (the “snails”).
- Arrange the snails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Brush with Egg Wash:
- Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of each puff pastry snail to help them achieve a golden color during baking.
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Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the snails for 20-25 minutes or until they are puffed, golden, and crispy.
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Serve:
- Allow the cheesy bacon puff pastry snails to cool slightly before serving. These can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Calcium: 200mg
The Origins and Popularity of Puff Pastry Snacks
Puff pastry is a beloved dough that originated in French cuisine. Its origins can be traced back to the 17th century, and it’s been a staple in both sweet and savory dishes ever since. Puff pastry is made by layering dough and butter, then rolling it out and folding it repeatedly to create a flaky, airy texture. This makes it ideal for creating light, crispy pastries that hold fillings like cheese, meats, and vegetables.
The idea of rolling puff pastry with savory fillings like cheese and bacon has grown in popularity worldwide, especially for appetizers and party snacks. The crisp pastry complements the rich and flavorful fillings, creating the perfect bite-sized treat. Cheesy bacon puff pastry snails are a fun and creative way to serve this classic combination, offering a new twist on the beloved flavors of bacon and cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy Bacon Puff Pastry Snails are irresistibly delicious and easy to make. The combination of crunchy, flaky pastry with gooey cheese and savory bacon makes these snails a satisfying snack. They are incredibly versatile and can be customized with your favorite fillings, whether you prefer different types of cheese or add herbs and spices. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just looking for a quick savory snack, these puff pastry snails will be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Health Benefits of Cheesy Bacon Puff Pastry Snails
While these snails are indulgent, they do contain some nutritional benefits. Bacon, when eaten in moderation, provides protein and essential vitamins like B12. The cheddar cheese in the recipe contributes calcium, which is important for bone health. Additionally, the puff pastry, though rich in fat, is made with butter, which contains essential fatty acids that are important for overall health. However, as a rich treat, these puff pastry snails are best enjoyed in moderation.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these cheesy bacon puff pastry snails as an appetizer at your next gathering or party. They pair well with cocktails, wine, or a refreshing iced tea.
- These snails are also great as part of a brunch spread, served alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light vegetable dish.
- If you’re serving them as a snack, pair them with a simple dipping sauce, such as ranch or mustard, for added flavor.
Tips
- If you want to make the snails ahead of time, prepare them, but don’t bake them. Cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan, to create a different flavor profile.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley works just fine. You can also try other herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Bacon Snails: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or chili flakes to the bacon and cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Snails: Omit the bacon and use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version of these puff pastry snails.
- Herbed Cheese Snails: Replace the cheddar cheese with a blend of herbed cream cheese or goat cheese for a creamy, flavorful alternative.
Conclusion
Cheesy Bacon Puff Pastry Snails are the perfect blend of crunchy, cheesy, and savory. The crispy puff pastry encases the flavorful combination of bacon, cheese, and herbs, creating an irresistible snack or appetizer. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, family gathering, or as a quick treat, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Easy to make and full of flavor, these snails are bound to become a favorite recipe in your collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these snails ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the snails, refrigerate them, and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze these snails?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked snails for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake them, no need to thaw—just bake them from frozen, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use a different type of pastry?
Yes, if you prefer, you can use a shortcrust pastry or even a phyllo dough for a different texture, but puff pastry provides the best results for the flaky, buttery effect.
Can I make these snails without bacon?
Yes, you can substitute the bacon with other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even sausage.