Cheesy Garlic Cruffin Delight

This cheesy garlic cruffin is a game changer for a quick yet impressive homemade treat. It combines flaky puff pastry with cheesy, garlicky richness in a fun twisted shape that feels special without a ton of effort. Perfect when you want something savory and satisfying, whether for breakfast, a snack, or a casual gathering.

I stumbled on this recipe when craving something cheesy and easy to share. It quickly became my go to for when I want a cozy bite without fussing over complex doughs.

Ingredients

• Puff pastry sheet: thawed for that buttery flaky texture that makes every bite melt in your mouth. Look for a good quality brand without additives.
• Butter: melted blends beautifully with garlic to infuse the entire pastry with rich flavor. Unsalted is best so you control seasoning.
• Fresh garlic: minced for a punch of bright savory flavor. Always opt for firm cloves free of sprouting or softness.
• Mozzarella: shredded adds creamy melty goodness and mildness that balances the sharpness of Parmesan. Choose whole milk for better texture.
• Parmesan cheese: grated provides a salty, nutty finish. Freshly grated trumps pre-grated because it melts better and tastes fresher.
• Fresh parsley: chopped for a fresh herbal brightness that lifts the richness. Pick bright green stems and avoid any yellowed leaves.
• Salt and pepper: to taste enhance and balance other flavors naturally without overpowering.
• Egg: beaten for the egg wash creates a shiny golden crust that looks as good as it tastes.

Instructions

Build The Base:

Preheat your oven to 375°F or 190°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your cruffins don&t stick and cleanup is easy. This also ensures even heat distribution.

Prepare Garlic Butter:

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and minced garlic. This step lets the garlic infuse the butter slowly without burning when baked, giving you a mellow garlicky taste throughout.

Roll and Layer:

Roll out your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Brush the garlic butter generously and evenly over the entire surface so every twist gets coated with flavor.

Add Cheese and Herbs:

Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper evenly across the buttered pastry. This layering ensures each bite melts with cheese and herbs.

Cut and Twist:

Cut the pastry into strips about one and a half inches wide. Then twist each strip several times to create those signature flaky layers and coils that give the cruffin its distinctive texture and look.

Shape and Bake:

Coil each twisted strip into a spiral like a muffin shape and place them into a muffin tin or directly on the lined baking tray which helps hold their shape during baking. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for that perfect golden finish.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until the cruffins are puffed up and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly for the best flakiness before serving warm.

My favorite part is that garlic butter soak in the layers making every bite hit with rich flavor. I have fond memories sharing these with friends on lazy weekend mornings while fresh coffee brewed.

Storage Tips

Store leftover cruffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the flaky texture intact.

Ingredient Swaps

Swap mozzarella with cheddar or Gruyere for a sharper or nuttier flavor profile. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can replace parsley to add a new twist. Use vegan butter and cheese for a dairy-free version that still tastes great.

Serving Ideas

Serve warm as a standalone snack or alongside a bowl of tomato soup to soak up all the cheesy goodness. They also make a fun accompaniment to breakfast with eggs and sautéed greens. You can slice them in half and add sliced deli meats or roasted veggies for a creative sandwich.

A delicious treat with minimal fuss, this cheesy garlic cruffin will impress any gathering and satisfy your craving for comfort food.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of pastry is best for this dish?

Using thawed puff pastry sheet ensures flaky, buttery layers and a crisp texture after baking.

→ Can I substitute the cheeses used?

Mozzarella provides meltiness, while Parmesan adds sharpness. Similar milder or aged cheeses may be used to adjust flavor.

→ How should garlic be prepared for better flavor infusion?

Minced garlic blended into melted butter releases aromatic oils that evenly coat and flavor the pastry strips.

→ Why is egg wash applied before baking?

The beaten egg brushed on top creates a shiny, golden-brown crust that enhances appearance and texture.

→ What is the best way to shape the pastry strips?

Cut strips about 1.5 inches wide, twist several times, then coil into a spiral to form the signature cruffin shape.