Air Fryer Cream Cheese & Herb Puff Pastry Squares

Table of Contents

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!