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Goat Cheese & Walnut Pastry Bites

Goat Cheese & Walnut Pastry Bites

These Goat Cheese & Walnut Pastry Bites are creamy, tangy, and packed with crunchy toasted walnuts wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for appetizers or snacks, they offer a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that are quick and easy to prepare, elegant yet approachable, and customizable to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
  • 4 oz fresh goat cheese (softened)
  • 1/2 cup toasted walnuts (roughly chopped)
  • 12 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary, finely chopped)
  • 1 egg (beaten for egg wash)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Puff Pastry: Thaw puff pastry sheets according to package instructions. On a floured surface, roll them out gently to smooth creases and achieve an even thickness for a crisp, flaky bite.
  2. Toast the Walnuts: Spread walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes until lightly browned and fragrant, stirring often to prevent burning. Let cool, then roughly chop.
  3. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine softened goat cheese, chopped toasted walnuts, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if using, and finely chopped fresh herbs. Season lightly with salt and pepper, stirring until well mixed.
  4. Assemble the Pastry Bites: Cut puff pastry into 2-3 inch squares or circles. Place about a teaspoon of filling in the center of each piece. Fold over or top with another pastry piece for pockets, or leave open-faced as desired.
  5. Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Brush each piece with beaten egg to ensure a golden, glossy crust. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.

Notes

  • Keep puff pastry chilled until ready to use to prevent stickiness and hardness.
  • Use just enough filling to avoid leakage or soggy pastry.
  • Space pastry bites evenly on the baking sheet for uniform cooking.
  • For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed walnuts on top before baking.
  • Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Goat cheese, walnut, puff pastry, appetizer, snack, easy recipe, party food, vegetarian, gluten-free option