If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, pull-apart snack that captures everything wonderful about warm cheese bread and buttery puff pastry, you’ve got to try Cheesy Garlic Cruffins. These mouthwatering treats are golden, flaky, and filled with gooey melted cheese, aromatic garlic, and a hint of herbs. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven as a savory breakfast, an irresistible appetizer, or the star of your brunch table, Cheesy Garlic Cruffins are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how the most basic ingredients can create such a memorable bite. Each item in this recipe was chosen to create the perfect blend of crunch, richness, and flavor, making every Cheesy Garlic Cruffins batch absolutely irresistible.
- Puff pastry sheet, thawed: The base for all those gorgeous flaky layers and that signature cruffin texture.
- Unsalted butter, softened: This adds richness, helps the garlic and herbs stick, and ensures your cruffins are tender and flavorful.
- Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses its aromatic punch throughout every swirl—don’t skimp here!
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: The star melter that provides stretchy, gooey goodness in every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For a tangy, salty depth that complements the other cheeses beautifully.
- Dried oregano: Adds that unmistakable herbaceous note found in your favorite savory pastries.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness of the pastry and cheese.
- Black pepper: Just the right kick to keep things interesting!
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Offers a pop of color and a little freshness when sprinkled over the top.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Cruffins
Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Garlic Butter
Start by combining your softened butter with minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. You’ll want to mash and stir everything together until you’ve got a fragrant, herby spread. This simple step is what infuses each bite with those bold, savory flavors that make Cheesy Garlic Cruffins so memorable.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Gently unroll your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Take a moment to pat and smooth out any creases—the more even your pastry, the neater your cruffins will look when baked. Puff pastry is delicate, so work quickly to keep it cold but pliable.
Step 3: Layer on the Flavor
With an offset spatula or butter knife, spread your homemade garlic butter across the entire surface of the pastry. Don’t worry about being too precious; just be sure to get all the way to the edges so every cruffin is bursting with flavor. Next, evenly sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan over your buttered pastry, making sure there’s cheesy goodness in every nook and cranny.
Step 4: Roll, Slice, and Shape
Tightly roll your pastry sheet up into a log (like a cinnamon roll). Slice this log into 6 equal pieces. Here’s where a little magic happens: Cut each piece in half lengthwise to reveal lovely multiple layers of filling. With the cut sides facing out, gently twist each strip and roll it into a spiral. Pop each spiral, cut-side up, into a greased muffin cup, and you’re well on your way to Cheesy Garlic Cruffins bliss!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your muffin tin into a 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. The cruffins will puff up dramatically, turning a deep golden brown as the cheese melts and the garlic scent fills your kitchen. Let them cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Warm
Finish by sprinkling a little fresh parsley over the tops for a burst of color and freshness. Serve these Cheesy Garlic Cruffins while they’re still warm so you can savor every melty, buttery, herby swirl.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Cruffins
Garnishes
A classic sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley does wonders for presentation, but don’t stop there! Try a dusting of extra Parmesan, a touch of flaky sea salt, or even a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil for extra flair. These little touches make Cheesy Garlic Cruffins look as irresistible as they taste.
Side Dishes
Cheesy Garlic Cruffins are playful enough to be served alongside a zesty tomato soup or a crisp salad but elegant enough for a brunch spread with eggs, smoked salmon, or roasted veggies. Their flavor pairs harmoniously with whatever you love most—just be ready for them to steal the show.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the cruffins on a wooden board with charcuterie, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a beautiful, Mediterranean-inspired snack bar. Serve them in a bread basket lined with linen for a cozy dinner, or add little cheese flags for a playful touch at brunch. However you serve them, Cheesy Garlic Cruffins are always a hit!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If, by some miracle, you have leftovers, simply let the Cheesy Garlic Cruffins cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for a day or in the fridge for up to three days. Just a quick warm-up will bring them right back to life.
Freezing
Cheesy Garlic Cruffins freeze beautifully! Arrange them on a tray and freeze until solid, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. When you need a quick snack or a fabulous appetizer on short notice, you’ll be so glad you saved a few.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the cruffins in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until heated through and just as flaky as when freshly baked. Microwaving works in a pinch but the oven best preserves their signature crispness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Appetizer
Absolutely! While mozzarella gives you that beloved stretch, you can swap in cheddar, provolone, or even a blend. Each cheese will add its own unique character to your cruffins, so don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorites.
Do I have to use fresh garlic, or can I use garlic powder?
Fresh garlic truly shines here, but in a pinch, you can substitute 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Just note that the flavor will be more mellow, so if you’re a garlic lover, stick with the real deal if possible.
How do I keep my puff pastry from getting soggy?
Make sure your butter isn’t too melted, and don’t overdo the filling. Baking until deep golden brown ensures the layers have time to crisp up without becoming greasy. Also, cooling the cruffins slightly before removing them from the tin helps maintain a flaky texture.
Can Cheesy Garlic Cruffins be made gluten-free?
You can try this recipe with store-bought gluten-free puff pastry, which is widely available. Be sure to follow package instructions, as gluten-free doughs can behave a little differently than traditional puff pastry.
Can I assemble the cruffins ahead of time and bake them later?
Yes! Assemble and shape the cruffins, then cover and refrigerate them in the muffin tin for up to 8 hours before baking. Bake straight from the fridge, adding an extra couple of minutes in the oven as needed.
Final Thoughts
You’re now ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of Cheesy Garlic Cruffins. Few recipes are as simple yet impressive, and every step is a joy. Don’t be surprised if these become your go-to treat for every get-together or cozy evening at home. Give them a try—you won’t regret a single, savory bite!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Cruffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 cruffins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these Cheesy Garlic Cruffins, a delightful combination of flaky puff pastry, savory garlic butter, and gooey cheese. These golden-brown delights are perfect for a party appetizer or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
Garlic Butter:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: Mix softened butter with garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble: Spread garlic butter on puff pastry. Add cheeses, roll into a log, slice, twist, and place in muffin cups.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Garnish and Serve: Cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding red pepper flakes or cheddar cheese.
- Make ahead and reheat in the oven before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cruffin
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
