Christmas Smoked Salmon & Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets

The holidays are a magical time filled with cozy moments, delicious treats, and opportunities to gather with loved ones. And what better way to celebrate than with these delightful Christmas Smoked Salmon & Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets? These golden, flaky parcels combine the rich smokiness of salmon, the creamy goodness of Swiss cheese, and the tangy kick of Dijon mustard—all wrapped up in buttery puff pastry. They’re perfect for holiday brunches, elegant appetizers, or just because you deserve a festive snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These puff pastry pockets are:

• Quick and easy: Just a few ingredients and minimal prep make this a stress-free holiday treat.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of smoky, cheesy, and tangy flavors is irresistible.
• Versatile: Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or even a light dinner.
• Festive: Their golden, puffed-up appearance screams holiday elegance!

The first bite is a symphony of textures and flavors—the crisp flakiness of the pastry gives way to the creamy melted cheese and smoky salmon, with a subtle zing from the mustard. Trust me, the smell alone when these are baking will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these festive delights:

• Puff pastry sheets: Store-bought works perfectly for this recipe and saves you time.
• Smoked salmon: Thinly sliced for easy layering.
• Swiss cheese: Choose your favorite variety—Gruyère or Emmental work beautifully, too.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang that elevates the flavors.
• Egg wash: A simple mixture of beaten egg for that shiny, golden finish.

Tools for the Recipe

Gather these essentials to make the preparation seamless:

• Rolling pin (if needed to flatten the pastry slightly).
• Sharp knife or pastry cutter.
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Pastry brush for applying the egg wash.

Step-by-Step Instructions

this Recipe

Let’s get started on these mouthwatering puff pastry pockets!

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Pastry

Roll out your puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into squares (about 4×4 inches works well).

3. Layer the Filling

Place a slice of smoked salmon and a slice of Swiss cheese in the center of each square. Spread a small dollop of Dijon mustard over the cheese for that signature tang.

4. Seal the Pockets

Fold the puff pastry squares in half diagonally to create triangles, or fold all four corners to the center for a pocket shape. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.

5. Add the Egg Wash

Brush each pocket generously with egg wash to ensure a beautiful golden hue once baked.

6. Bake to Perfection

Transfer the pockets to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Allow the pockets to cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious both warm and at room temperature!

What to Serve with These Puff Pastry Pockets

These versatile treats pair wonderfully with:

• A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Holiday soups, such as creamy tomato or leek and potato.
• Festive drinks, like sparkling wine or a warm mulled cider.

Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Pockets

• Keep it cool: Work quickly with the puff pastry to keep it cold, which helps achieve that signature flaky texture.
• Don’t overfill: A little goes a long way; too much filling can make sealing tricky and lead to leaks.
• Experiment with fillings: Add a sprinkle of dill or a touch of lemon zest for an extra flavor boost.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness. You can also freeze unbaked pockets for up to a month; bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pockets and refrigerate them for a few hours until ready to bake.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Brie, cream cheese, or even cheddar would make delicious substitutes.

Are there vegetarian options?
Swap the smoked salmon for sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for a veggie-friendly twist.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about recipes that bring people together, and these Christmas Smoked Salmon & Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are sure to do just that. They’re quick, flavorful, and elegant enough to elevate any holiday spread. Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself, these pockets are guaranteed to be a hit!

Looking for more holiday inspiration? Try these recipes next:

• Christmas Spinach & Feta Pinwheels
• Christmas Kiwi Wreath Salad
• Rosemary Feta Christmas Tree Crackers

Don’t forget to share your creations with me on Pinterest at EmmaRecipes18 or leave a review below. Happy holidays and happy baking!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~230
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sodium: 290mg

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