Cheese and Spice Puff Bites

Flaky, golden puff pastry bites filled with a blend of cheeses and aromatic spices—a perfect, crowd-pleasing appetizer for any gathering.

I love serving these at parties because they always disappear fast and everyone asks for the recipe.

Ingredients

• Dairy: 100 g grated cheddar cheese, 50 g grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• Pastry: 1 sheet (about 250 g) ready-rolled puff pastry (all-butter recommended) thawed if frozen
• Spices & Seasoning: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat), 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

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Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2:

In a bowl, mix grated cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, oregano, black pepper, chili flakes (if using), and salt.

Step 3:

Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Evenly sprinkle the cheese and spice mixture over the entire surface.

Step 4:

Gently press the mixture into the pastry with a rolling pin to help it adhere.

Step 5:

Cut the pastry into 24 equal squares or rectangles using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.

Step 6:

Place the pieces onto the prepared baking tray leaving a little space between each.

Step 7:

Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 8:

Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Step 9:

Transfer the bites to a wire rack and let cool slightly before serving.

Dispense soap hands-free for quick handwashing and easier cleanup while cooking and handling ingredients.

Check price on Amazon

Dispense soap hands-free for quick handwashing and easier cleanup while cooking and handling ingredients.

Check price on Amazon

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My kids love helping me brush the egg wash on each square before baking—it's their favorite part!

Required Tools

Baking tray, parchment paper, mixing bowl, rolling pin, sharp knife or pizza cutter, pastry brush

Allergen Information

Contains milk (cheese), egg, gluten (puff pastry). May contain traces of nuts or soy—always check packaging if allergies are a concern.

Nutritional Information

Per bite: 85 calories, 6 g fat, 6 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein.

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Soft, absorbent towels keep counters dry while cooking, wiping spills, and handling dishes during everyday recipe prep.

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These bites are perfect for last-minute guests and pair wonderfully with a chilled white wine.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What cheeses are used in these puff bites?

Grated cheddar and Parmesan cheeses provide a rich, savory flavor and melt beautifully inside the puff pastry.

→ Can I add more heat to these bites?

Yes, including chili flakes adds a gentle kick, but you can adjust the amount or add cumin or curry powder for different spice notes.

→ How do I achieve a golden, glossy finish?

Brushing the tops with beaten egg before baking helps create a shiny, golden-brown crust on the puff pastry.

→ What are alternative cheeses to cheddar in this dish?

Gruyère or Emmental can be used instead of cheddar to vary the flavor profile with rich and nutty notes.

→ Is it possible to prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bites in advance and gently reheat them in the oven just before serving to retain freshness and crispness.