A platter of Puff Pastry Stars has a way of brightening a table before anyone even takes a bite. Its crisp edges, buttery layers, and a festive shape promise something deliciously simple. These little appetizers are the kind of treat you can prepare in minutes yet present with confidence, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, serving drinks with friends, or just adding a fun touch to a weeknight dinner.
What are Puff Pastry Stars?
Puff Pastry Stars are made from ready-rolled puff pastry. They’re essentially a fancy finger-food riff on cheese straws and savory palmiers, with the same buttery lift from laminated dough, but friendlier and far more festive. Also, you can trace their technique to classic European laminated pastry traditions.
Pro Tips for the Best Puff Pastry Stars
- Don’t over-handle the pastry. Work quickly so butter layers stay distinct and the less you press, the flakier the result.
- Use a sharp cutter and a single straight press to get clean star edges that puff evenly.
- Brush the edges and tops thinly for the best shine; too much washing can run and prevent crisping.
- Grate cheese finely. It melts evenly and browns beautifully without weighing the pastry down.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of puff pastry should I use?
Use a good-quality ready-rolled puff pastry sheet. If using frozen, thaw in the fridge until pliable but still cold. Avoid pastries labelled shortcrust, as they won’t puff the same.
How do I get them evenly golden without burning the cheese?
Use finely grated cheese and a light brush of egg wash. Bake on the middle rack at the recommended temperature and watch the first batch because ovens vary.
Can I make them sweet instead of savory?
Just substitute the cheese and spices. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle cinnamon sugar before baking for sweet puff pastry stars.
What dips or pairings work well?
Serve with herby cream cheese, honey mustard, a spicy tomato jam, or even smooth avocado dip.
How to Store Puff Pastry Stars
Store completely cooled baked stars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For best crispness, place a piece of kitchen paper in the container to absorb any residual steam.
Ingredients
How to Make Puff Pastry Stars
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In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with the milk.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with the milk.
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Gently unroll the puff pastry and use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out stars.
Gently unroll the puff pastry and use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out stars.
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Place the stars spaced slightly apart on the prepared tray so they have room to puff.
Place the stars spaced slightly apart on the prepared tray so they have room to puff.
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Using a pastry brush, lightly coat each star with the egg wash.
Using a pastry brush, lightly coat each star with the egg wash.
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Sprinkle the stars with finely grated cheese. On half of those cheese stars, add a light dusting of paprika for a smoky note. On the remaining stars, sprinkle sesame seeds to taste.
Sprinkle the stars with finely grated cheese. On half of those cheese stars, add a light dusting of paprika for a smoky note. On the remaining stars, sprinkle sesame seeds to taste.
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Bake for 10 minutes.
Bake for 10 minutes.
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Enjoy!
Enjoy!
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