Avocado Mozzarella Puffs

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful and easy-to-make snack that’s both creamy and crispy, look no further than these Avocado Mozzarella Puffs. These little pockets of goodness combine the rich, velvety texture of avocado with the gooey, melted charm of mozzarella cheese, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. They’re perfect for entertaining, a quick lunch, or a cozy night in. Plus, they come together in no time, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why This Avocado Mozzarella Puffs Stands Out

What makes these Avocado Mozzarella Puffs truly special is their unique combination of flavors and textures. The creamy avocado blend, accented with a splash of lime juice and freshly ground pepper, creates a delicious filling that pairs perfectly with the stretchy mozzarella. Wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry, each bite is a delightful contrast of textures. These puffs are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize, making them a favorite among friends and family.

What You’ll Need

• 1 avocado (mashed)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (from 1/2 lime)
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper (freshly ground, or to taste)
• 2 sheets puff pastry (1 package)
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 6 ounces mozzarella cheese (cut into 12 cubes of 1 inch each)
• 1/2 cup salsa (for dipping)

Equipment Breakdown

• Mixing bowl: For combining the avocado, lime juice, and pepper.
• Rolling pin: To roll out the puff pastry if needed.
• Baking sheet: To bake the puffs to golden perfection.
• Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Pastry brush: To apply the beaten egg for a beautiful finish.

Avocado Mozzarella Puffs: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by mashing the avocado in a mixing bowl. Add the lime juice and freshly ground pepper, mixing until well combined. The lime juice not only adds flavor but also helps to prevent the avocado from browning.

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If your puff pastry is not already rolled out, lightly flour your work surface and use a rolling pin to roll it out into a thin sheet. You want it to be about 1/8 inch thick for the best texture.

Step 3: Cut the Pastry

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry into squares that are approximately 4×4 inches. You should get about 12 squares from two sheets of pastry.

Step 4: Assemble the Puffs

Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each pastry square. Spoon about a tablespoon of the avocado mixture on top of the cheese. Carefully fold the pastry over to form a triangle, pressing the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra decorative touch.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

Transfer the filled puffs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a pastry brush, apply the beaten egg over the tops of the puffs. This will give them a beautiful golden color as they bake.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the puffs in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with salsa for dipping. These Avocado Mozzarella Puffs are sure to impress!

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• For a warm weather twist, add diced tomatoes and cilantro to the avocado filling for a fresh guacamole-inspired flavor.
• In cooler months, try adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a warm, comforting touch.
• Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack or feta, for a new flavor profile.
• For a heartier version, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham to the filling.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t skip the lime juice; it adds essential flavor and prevents the avocado from turning brown too quickly.
• Avoid overfilling the puffs; it can make sealing difficult and result in messy puffs.
• Don’t forget to let the puffs cool slightly before serving; they’ll be hot and gooey right out of the oven.
• Refrain from using frozen mozzarella sticks; they won’t melt properly and will affect the texture.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

These Avocado Mozzarella Puffs are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can certainly make them ahead of time. Here are a few tips to keep them fresh:

• Store unbaked puffs in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore the crispiness.
• For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked puffs. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Pair with fresh salsa or guacamole to keep the flavors bright and fresh.

Avocado Mozzarella Puffs Q&A

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella offers a great melting quality, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or even feta for a different flavor.

Can I make these puffs vegan?

Yes! Substitute the mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative and use a flax egg or chickpea egg wash instead of a regular egg wash. Additionally, ensure your puff pastry is vegan-friendly.

How can I adjust the spice level of the puffs?

To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the avocado filling. You can also serve with a spicy salsa for an extra kick.

Can I bake these puffs in an air fryer?

Yes! You can air fry these puffs at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Make sure to check them frequently as air fryers can vary in cooking times.

The Takeaway

Avocado Mozzarella Puffs are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a feast for the eyes as well. The bright green of the avocado peeking through the golden puff pastry makes for an inviting presentation. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a cozy evening snack, these puffs are sure to be a hit. With their creamy filling and crispy exterior, they perfectly embody the joy of cooking and sharing with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in these delightful Avocado Mozzarella Puffs!