If you’re a fan of buttery, flaky pastries with an irresistible twist, then these Cheesy Garlic Cruffins are going to be your new go-to snack! Perfectly combining the best parts of a croissant and a muffin, these cruffins are swirled with garlic and cheese, creating a savory treat that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, a side with dinner, or as an afternoon snack, these cheesy garlic cruffins are a hit for any occasion. Let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering recipe that will have your kitchen smelling like a bakery in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flaky & Buttery: The cruffins have that signature flakiness of croissants with a buttery richness in every bite.
- Cheesy Goodness: The gooey cheese melts beautifully between the layers, adding a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic.
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these in less than an hour!
- Versatile: Serve them for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side to a hearty soup or salad.
Ingredients:
To make these delightful cheesy garlic cruffins, you will need:
- 1 package puff pastry (store-bought, thawed)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Flour, for dusting the work surface
Kitchen Equipment:
- Muffin tin
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Knife or pizza cutter
- Mixing bowl
- Grater
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your muffin tin or line it with paper liners to prevent sticking.
Next, on a floured surface, carefully unfold the puff pastry sheet. Using a rolling pin, gently roll it out to smooth any creases and slightly thin the dough, but don’t roll it too thin. You want the layers to puff up when baked.
Step 2: Add the Garlic Butter & Cheese
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use a pastry brush to spread a generous layer of the garlic butter mixture over the puff pastry.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the buttered surface, ensuring you get cheese all the way to the edges. This is where the magic happens – the cheese melts into the layers of pastry, making each bite indulgently delicious.
Step 3: Roll and Slice
Now for the fun part! Starting from one edge, roll the puff pastry tightly into a log, just like you would for cinnamon rolls. Once rolled, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the log into even slices, about 1-1.5 inches thick.
Step 4: Shape the Cruffins
Take each slice and carefully place it into the muffin tin, with the spiral facing up. If the layers come apart a little, that’s fine – they’ll puff up beautifully as they bake.
For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle the tops of the cruffins with grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a crispy, golden layer on top when baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cruffins are golden brown and puffed up. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are beautifully crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the cruffins are out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly in the tin before removing them. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
Serve warm and enjoy the perfect combination of buttery pastry, melty cheese, and savory garlic in every bite!
Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Cruffins
- Thaw the Puff Pastry: If using frozen puff pastry, ensure it’s fully thawed before working with it. This makes it easier to roll and shape.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar and mozzarella work well, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a bit of kick!
- Extra Garlic Flavor: For even more garlic flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or roasted garlic cloves for a milder, sweeter taste.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cruffins up to the slicing stage, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake and enjoy fresh from the oven!
Variations and Add-Ons
- Herb Infusion: Add Italian seasoning or rosemary to the garlic butter for an aromatic twist.
- Bacon & Cheese Cruffins: Crisp up some bacon and sprinkle it over the cheese before rolling the pastry for a savory and smoky bite.
- Spicy Kick: Add a touch of red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy version of these cruffins.
- Sweet Twist: Swap out the garlic and cheese for cinnamon and sugar, and drizzle with icing for a dessert version.
Storage and Leftovers
Storing: These cruffins are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but they may lose some crispness.
Reheating: To bring back their crispy texture, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds, though they’ll be softer.
Freezing: These cruffins freeze beautifully! Simply freeze them on a baking sheet after they’ve cooled, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Garlic Cruffins are versatile enough to be served on their own or paired with a meal. Here are some ideas:
- For Breakfast: Serve alongside scrambled eggs or a veggie frittata.
- At Dinner: Pair with hearty soups like tomato basil, or as a side to a grilled steak or roasted chicken.
- Party Snack: These cruffins make an excellent party appetizer, especially when served with a marinara or cheese dip on the side.
- Brunch Buffet: Add them to your next brunch spread, along with fresh fruit, quiche, and coffee for a gourmet feel.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Difficulty Rating
Easy: While these cruffins may look impressive, they’re surprisingly easy to make. The puff pastry does most of the work for you, and the simple process of rolling and slicing ensures that even beginner bakers can tackle this recipe with confidence.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
- Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the buttery layers and savory cheese. For red wine lovers, try a light-bodied Pinot Noir.
- Beverages: If you’re serving these cruffins as part of a breakfast or brunch spread, coffee or a light herbal tea complements them perfectly. For an evening treat, a sparkling water with lemon can balance out the richness.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Garlic Cruffins are the ultimate combination of flaky, buttery pastry and savory, cheesy filling. They’re a delightful treat for any time of day and are sure to become a family favorite after just one bite. Whether you’re making them for a quick breakfast, a side dish, or a party snack, these cruffins are always a hit.
