Air Fryer Cream Cheese and Herb Puff Pastry Squares

 Introduction:

Light, flaky, and full of creamy flavor, these Cream Cheese and Herb Puff Pastry Squares are a delightful bite-sized snack or elegant appetizer—all made in the air fryer for quick, golden perfection. With a creamy, savory filling of whipped cream cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs, each puff is both rich and refreshing.

Perfect for brunches, parties, or just a cozy afternoon treat, these golden pastry bites are deceptively simple yet look (and taste!) like something from a high-end bakery. No need to turn on the oven—your air fryer does all the crisping in minutes.

 Ingredients:

 For the Pastry:

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed (approx. 9″ x 9″)

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

 For the Cream Cheese Filling:

4 oz (½ block) cream cheese, softened

2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt

1 garlic clove, minced

1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

 Instructions:

Prepare the Puff Pastry:

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out puff pastry to smooth edges.

Cut into 12–16 squares, depending on your desired size.

Lightly score a smaller square inside each piece (don’t cut through), to help form a border.

Brush the outer edges with egg wash for a golden crust.

Make the Filling:

In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, herbs, and seasonings until smooth.

Place about 1–1½ teaspoons of the filling in the center of each pastry square (within the scored area).

Preheat & Load the Air Fryer:

Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes.

Line the basket with parchment paper or a perforated liner.

Place 4–6 squares at a time in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).

Air Fry:

Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 7–9 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.

Check at 7 minutes—add 1–2 minutes if needed for extra browning.

Cool & Serve:

Let cool for 3–5 minutes before serving.

Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet-savory twist.

 Tips & Variations:

Add-ins: Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or cooked spinach to the filling.

Mini version: Cut smaller squares for bite-sized party snacks.

Sweet version: Swap herbs for a touch of honey and fruit preserves with the cream cheese.

 Nutrition (Per square, approx.):

Based on 16 servings

Calories: ~110

Fat: 8g

Carbs: 7g

Protein: 2g

Sugar: <1g

Sodium: ~100mg