Camembert & Potato Puff Pastry Bites with Honey

Introduction

The holiday season is often filled with rich flavors and delightful treats, and these Camembert & Potato Puff Pastry Bites with Honey capture the essence of festive indulgence. Recently, I made these bites for a family gathering, and they were an instant hit! The combination of creamy camembert, crispy potatoes, and a hint of sweetness from the honey left everyone raving about them. The puff pastry adds a flaky texture that pairs perfectly with the rich filling, making them an ideal appetizer or party snack. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make, making them a perfect addition to any gathering.

Ingredients

• Potatoes:
• 1 box of Albert Bartlett Parmentier Potatoes
• Camembert:
• Half a Camembert cheese
• Puff Pastry:
• 1 sheet (approximately 300g)
• Egg Wash:
• 1 egg
• Herbs:
• 1 tsp dried mixed herbs
• Fresh thyme (for garnish)
• Other:
• 1 tbsp white sesame seeds
• Sea salt
• Drizzle of honey

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 220 degrees C (fan 200 degrees C / gas mark 7).
2. Cook Potatoes: Place the Albert Bartlett Parmentier Potatoes on a baking tray and cook for 20 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
3. Prepare Puff Pastry: While the potatoes are cooking, slice the puff pastry sheet into 12 even squares. Cut a square border roughly 1cm into the pastry, leaving the corners attached to create a small frame.
4. Egg Wash: Lightly coat each pastry square with the egg wash, using a brush to apply it evenly.
5. Assemble: Top the center of each pastry square with a slice of camembert, a few Parmentier Potatoes, a sprinkle of dried mixed herbs, and a dash of white sesame seeds.
6. Bake: Reduce the oven temperature to 180 degrees C (170 fan degrees / gas mark 4) and bake the assembled pastries for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
7. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and serve warm, drizzled with honey and garnished with fresh thyme.

Enjoy your delicious and festive Camembert & Potato Puff Pastry Bites with Honey!

Nutrition Facts (approximate per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 pastry bite
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Preparation Time

• Total Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Garnish: Top each pastry with fresh thyme for a touch of color and flavor.
• Drizzle Honey: Add a drizzle of honey just before serving to enhance the sweetness.
• Warm: These bites are best served warm, straight from the oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer at dinner parties or holiday gatherings.
• Pair with a light salad for a delightful lunch.
• Great as a snack for game day or movie nights.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor significantly.
2. Customize Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bacon for added flavor.
3. Keep an Eye on the Oven: Puff pastry can brown quickly, so check periodically to prevent burning.
4. Serving Temperature: Allow them to cool slightly before serving, as the filling will be very hot.
5. Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables.
• Cheese Variety: Swap camembert for brie, goat cheese, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil to change up the flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These bites can be frozen before baking. Assemble the pastries, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storing Leftovers: Store leftover baked pastry bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?

• Yes, you can use other pre-cooked potatoes or even make your own mashed potatoes.

1. What if I can’t find camembert?

• Brie is a great substitute, or you can use any soft cheese that melts well.

1. Can I make these vegetarian?

• Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables.

1. How do I make homemade mashed potatoes?

• Boil peeled potatoes until tender, mash with butter, cream, salt, and pepper.

1. Can I prepare these in advance?

• Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time and bake just before serving.

1. What can I use instead of sesame seeds?

• Poppy seeds or chopped nuts are great alternatives.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

1. Can I serve these cold?

• They are best served warm, but they can be eaten cold if desired.

1. What’s the best way to reheat them?

• Reheat in the oven to maintain the pastry’s flakiness.

1. Can I add a sauce for dipping?
   • Yes, a ranch or garlic dip would pair nicely!

Conclusion

These Camembert & Potato Puff Pastry Bites with Honey are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and textures into a single bite-sized delight. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers, these pastries are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. With their ease of preparation and the option to customize, they are a wonderful addition to any appetizer spread. Whether you’re serving them for a festive party or a cozy family dinner, they are bound to be a hit! Enjoy this scrumptious recipe, and let the compliments roll in!

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