Save Flaky puff pastry cups filled with a creamy, tangy cranberry&jalapeño dip are perfect as a festive appetizer or party snack. Guests love the combo of sweet, spicy, and crunchy in every bite.
I first made these cranberry jalapeño puff pastries for a holiday potluck and everyone asked for the recipe. They look impressive but come together so quickly.
Ingredients
- Puff Pastry: 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
- Cream Cheese: 225 g (8 oz), softened
- Sour Cream: 60 ml (¼ cup)
- Honey: 2 tbsp
- Salt: ¼ tsp
- Cranberries: 120 g (1 cup) fresh or frozen, chopped
- Jalapeño: 1 medium, seeded and finely diced
- Cilantro: 2 tbsp fresh, chopped
- Green Onions: 2 tbsp, thinly sliced
- Sugar: 2 tbsp
- Lime Juice: 1 tbsp
- Garnish (optional): Extra chopped cilantro, finely diced jalapeño
Instructions
- Prep Muffin Tin:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin.
- Shape Pastry Cups:
- Roll out thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 12 equal squares (24 total). Gently press each square into the muffin tin, forming small pastry cups.
- Mix Creamy Filling:
- In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, sour cream, honey, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Make Cranberry Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine cranberries, jalapeño, cilantro, green onions, sugar, and lime juice. Mix well and let stand for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Fill Pastry Cups:
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into each puff pastry cup. Top each with a small spoonful of the cranberry jalapeño mixture.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until pastry is golden and crisp.
- Serve:
- Let cool in the tin for 5 minutes before removing. Garnish with extra cilantro and jalapeño if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save We make these every year for our family’s winter gathering, and the kids love helping fill the pastry cups. It’s become a fun holiday tradition.
Required Tools
Rolling pin, mini muffin tin (24 cups), mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, spoon or small scoop
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (dairy). Always check puff pastry ingredients for allergens or cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Per pastry: Calories 95, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 9 g, Protein 2 g
Save Serve these puff pastries warm for the best flavor. They reheat beautifully and look stunning on any holiday table.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of cranberries should I use?
Fresh or frozen cranberries work well. Thaw and drain frozen ones before chopping for best texture.
- → Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake ahead and store in an airtight container. Serve at room temperature or briefly reheat before serving.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
For milder flavor, reduce the amount of jalapeño or replace with a mild green pepper. Add more for extra heat.
- → What can I use as garnish?
Extra chopped cilantro, finely diced jalapeño, or crumbled feta add flavor and color. Garnish just before serving.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the ingredients are vegetarian. Verify puff pastry for animal-based ingredients if necessary.
- → What wine pairs well with these?
A crisp Riesling or sparkling wine complements the tangy, creamy flavors beautifully.