These Puff Pastry Rolls with Cream Cheese are a simple yet elegant appetizer that can be prepared in just three steps. Perfect for any event, they combine the rich flavors of cream cheese, feta, and garlic, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Here’s how to make them:
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Rolls:
- 600g (21.16 oz) puff pastry
- 300g (10.6 oz) cream cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 200g (7 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
- 100g (3.5 oz) pressed cheese, grated
- 20g (0.7 oz) parsley, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 50g (1.76 oz) pressed cheese, grated (for topping)
For the Sauce:
- 4 egg yolks
- 100g (3.5 oz) melted butter
- 20ml (0.7 fl oz) lemon juice
- 50ml (⅕ cup) milk
- 2g (0.07 oz) spicy paprika
Directions
Prepare the Puff Pastry Rolls:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into rectangles.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, garlic, feta cheese, grated pressed cheese, and parsley until well combined.
- Assemble the Rolls: Spread the cheese mixture onto each puff pastry rectangle and roll them up. Place the rolls on a baking tray (30 x 40 cm / 12 x 16 in) lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with the remaining grated pressed cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Serve warm with the sauce.
Directions for the Sauce:
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the egg yolks, melted butter, lemon juice, and milk. Stir continuously for 2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Add Spices: Add the spicy paprika and mix well. Remove from heat and serve warm with the puff pastry rolls.
Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Rolls:
- Handling Puff Pastry: Keep the puff pastry cold until you are ready to use it. This makes it easier to work with and helps it puff up nicely during baking.
- Even Filling: Ensure the cheese mixture is spread evenly over the puff pastry rectangles for uniform rolls.
- Crispy Topping: Brushing the rolls with beaten egg and adding grated cheese on top helps achieve a beautiful golden brown and crispy finish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Appetizer: Serve these puff pastry rolls as an elegant appetizer at your next dinner party or holiday gathering. They pair well with a variety of dips and sauces.
- Finger Food: Perfect for casual get-togethers, these rolls are easy to eat with your hands, making them ideal for finger food platters.
- Accompaniment: Serve alongside soups or salads for a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cheese Variety: The combination of cream cheese, feta, and pressed cheese provides a rich source of calcium and protein.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds not only flavor but also vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants.
Conclusion:
Puff Pastry Rolls with Cream Cheese are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any event. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a delicious snack, these rolls are sure to impress. The addition of a homemade spicy paprika sauce adds an extra layer of flavor, making this recipe a must-try. Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy pastry and creamy, savory filling!
Happy cooking!