Description
These Parmesan Puff Stars are a super easy and elegant appetizer recipe, perfect for a holiday party or any gathering. Flaky puff pastry is filled with Parmesan cheese, cut into star shapes, and baked until golden and puffed.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- 5 tablespoons (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for sprinkling (optional)
- Chopped fresh chives, for garnish (optional)
- Salt, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Gently unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If needed, roll it slightly to smooth out creases.
- Cut Stars: Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out as many stars as possible from the puff pastry sheet. You will need an even number (pairs of stars).
- Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water.
- Assemble Stars:
- Place half of the puff pastry stars on the prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle a small amount (about 1/2 teaspoon) of the grated Parmesan cheese in the center of each star on the baking sheet, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Lightly brush the edges of these Parmesan-topped stars with the egg wash.
- Place another puff pastry star directly on top of each cheese-topped star. Gently press the edges together to seal (you can use the tines of a fork for a decorative edge, if desired).
- Finish Tops: Brush the tops of the assembled stars generously with the remaining egg wash. Sprinkle with a little extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the stars are puffed up and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the stars from the oven. Sprinkle immediately with chopped fresh chives and a tiny pinch of salt, if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Puff Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is thawed according to package directions but kept cold for the best puff. All-butter puff pastry often yields the best flavor.
- Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for optimal flavor.
- Sealing: Gently pressing the edges helps keep the cheese inside as it melts.
- Egg Wash: Provides a nice golden color and shine.
- Storage: These are best served fresh and warm. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat briefly in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispness.