Crispy Cheese Stuffed Puff Sticks with Basil

Soft and Crispy Cheese Stuffed Puff Sticks Recipe

If you’re craving a deliciously crispy snack with a cheesy filling, look no further than this Soft and Crispy Cheese Stuffed Puff Sticks Recipe. Featuring a delightful puff pastry brushed with fresh basil and olive oil, stuffed with a rich combination of red cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and baked to golden perfection, this treat is perfect for any occasion. The recipe uses whole grain bread, though you can easily substitute any type of bread you prefer. The puff pastry block requires defrosting before use, but feel free to use your preferred puff pastry if you’re short on time. For added convenience, the stuffing can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roll. Whether served at a party or as a savory snack, these cheese stuffed puff sticks are sure to impress.

Cuisine: Continental
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients:

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry: To begin, defrost the puff pastry block and allow it to reach room temperature. Follow the basic steps for making puff pastry as described in the Croissant Recipe on our site, if needed.

2. Chop the Basil: Finely chop the fresh basil leaves and set them aside for later use.

3. Dust and Roll the Puff Pastry: Dust the puff pastry with all-purpose flour (maida) to prevent sticking. Roll the pastry into a thin sheet, ensuring it is evenly spread. You should be able to cut the dough into approximately 20 squares, each about 20 cm in size.

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes.

5. Prepare the Baking Tray: Line an oven tray with baking paper to prevent sticking and to ensure a crisp finish.

6. Assemble the Puff Sticks: Take one square of puff pastry, brush it with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle the finely chopped basil leaves evenly on top. Next, add a generous amount of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, ensuring an even spread. Roll the pastry into a stick, ensuring the filling stays inside.

7. Bake the Puff Sticks: Place the prepared cheese-filled puff sticks onto the baking tray. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. The sticks should turn golden brown and crispy once done.

8. Serve: Once the puff sticks are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm as they are or with dipping sauces like Mexican salsa, guacamole, or a refreshing yogurt dip. They make a wonderful appetizer for parties or a flavorful snack to enjoy at home.

Tips for Success:

• Defrosting the Puff Pastry: Be sure to let the puff pastry block defrost completely before using it. This ensures a smooth and easy rolling process.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese depending on your taste preferences. A mix of sharp cheddar and gooey mozzarella provides the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
• Dipping Options: While these puff sticks are delicious on their own, they pair beautifully with dips such as salsa, guacamole, or yogurt-based dips for extra flavor.

Allergen Information:

This recipe contains dairy products (cheddar and mozzarella cheese) and wheat flour (for the puff pastry). If you’re sensitive to gluten, you may opt for gluten-free puff pastry.

Dietary Preferences:

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly but can be adapted for vegan diets by using plant-based cheeses and oil instead of butter or regular cheese.

Serve these Soft and Crispy Cheese Stuffed Puff Sticks as a delightful snack or appetizer at your next gathering. Their golden, crispy exterior and gooey cheesy filling will quickly make them a favorite! Whether you’re serving them alongside other finger foods or simply enjoying them on their own, these puff sticks are sure to be a hit.