baked puff pastries

Here is a complete step-by-step recipe for making baked puff pastries using ready-made puff pastry dough. This version includes a sweet and a savory filling option, so you can adapt it to your taste.

Baked Puff Pastries Recipe

Ingredients

Base:

• 1 package (about 250 to 300 grams) of ready-made puff pastry (thawed if frozen)

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• 1 tablespoon water

Optional sweet filling:

• ½ cup fruit preserves or jam (apricot, raspberry, or any preferred flavor)

• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Optional savory filling:

• ½ cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or feta)

• ¼ cup cooked ham, spinach, or mushrooms

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the puff pastry

1. Lightly flour your work surface.

2. Roll out the puff pastry sheet if it’s not already pre-rolled. It should be about ¼ inch thick.

3. Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles (about 3 to 4 inches wide).

Step 3: Add filling

For sweet pastries:

1. Place about 1 teaspoon of jam or fruit preserves in the center of each square.

2. Do not overfill to avoid leakage during baking.

For savory pastries:

1. Place a small amount of grated cheese and your chosen filling (ham, mushrooms, spinach) in the center.

2. Season lightly if needed.

Step 4: Seal the edges

1. Fold the squares into triangles or rectangles to cover the filling.

2. Press the edges with a fork to seal.

3. Use a knife to cut small slits on top of each pastry to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Make the egg wash

1. In a small bowl, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water.

2. Brush the top of each pastry with the egg wash for a golden finish.

Step 6: Bake

1. Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet.

2. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.

3. Let cool slightly before serving.

Step 7: Serve

1. Serve warm or at room temperature.

2. For sweet pastries, dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Reheat in the oven for best texture.