This Savory Puff Pastry Wreath is an elegant appetizer designed to impress with minimal effort. Golden, flaky pastry rounds are arranged into a festive wreath and topped with a smooth herbed cream cheese mixture, finished with finely diced vegetables for color, freshness, and crunch. Light yet indulgent, this dish is ideal for holiday gatherings, brunch spreads, or cocktail parties. Its balanced flavors, refined presentation, and make-ahead convenience make it a standout centerpiece on any table.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
Pastry Base
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Herbed Cream Cheese Topping
- 200 g (7 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives or green onion, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Vegetable Garnish
- ¼ cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- ¼ cup celery, finely diced
- ¼ cup broccoli florets, very finely chopped
- Extra chopped herbs for finishing (optional)
Method
- Prepare the pastry
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the puff pastry slightly on a floured surface. Using a round cutter, cut uniform circles. Arrange them slightly overlapping in a circular wreath shape on a parchment-lined baking tray. - Bake
Brush the pastry rounds lightly with egg wash. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely. - Make the cream cheese mixture
In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, chopped herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and spreadable. Adjust seasoning as needed. - Prepare the vegetables
Finely dice the red pepper, celery, and broccoli. Keep pieces small and uniform for a clean, refined finish. - Assemble the wreath
Spoon or pipe a generous dollop of herbed cream cheese onto each cooled pastry round. Sprinkle evenly with the diced vegetables. - Finish and serve
Lightly garnish with extra herbs if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a cold appetizer with sparkling wine or cocktails
- Ideal for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or brunch tables
- Can be placed at the center of a grazing board
Chef’s Tips
- Cool pastry completely before topping to prevent melting
- Dice vegetables very finely for professional presentation
- Pipe the cream cheese for a cleaner, more elegant look
- Puff pastry can be baked a day ahead
- Add lemon zest to the cream cheese for extra brightness
