Air Fryer Cream Cheese & Herb Puff Pastry Squares
Introduction
These puff pastry squares are golden, flaky, and filled with a rich mixture of cream cheese and fresh herbs. Traditionally baked in an oven, they cook beautifully in an air fryer — faster and crispier with a golden finish. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re elegant and effortless.
Ingredients (Makes 9 Squares)
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (store-bought, about 9×9 inches)
½ cup cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (optional for extra creaminess)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill (or ½ tsp dried)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional toppings: everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or extra herbs
Equipment
Air fryer (basket or oven-style)
Small bowl
Pastry brush
Parchment paper (optional)
Instructions
Prepare Puff Pastry
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
Cut into 9 equal squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Score a light border (~½ inch from the edge) around each square (do not cut through), to help the edges puff.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a bowl, mix together:
Cream cheese
Sour cream/yogurt (if using)
Herbs (parsley, dill, chives)
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Mix until smooth.
Assemble Squares
Spoon 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each pastry square.
Spread slightly, keeping inside the scored border.
Brush the pastry borders lightly with beaten egg.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
Air Fry
Line the air fryer basket with parchment (optional) or lightly spray with oil.
Place 3–4 squares at a time, leaving space between them.
Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Repeat in batches as needed.
Serve
Let cool slightly before serving.
Optional: Sprinkle with extra herbs or seasoning before serving.
Total Time Breakdown
Prep: 10 minutes
Preheat: 3 minutes
Cook: 8–10 minutes per batch
Total: ~25–30 minutes
Tips
Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer filling.
Try adding crumbled feta or goat cheese for variation.
These taste amazing warm, but are also good at room temperature — perfect for entertaining!