Step 1: Prepare the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, parsley, and black pepper.
- Mix until smooth.
- Fold in the mozzarella cubes.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Lightly flour your work surface.
- Roll each puff pastry sheet slightly thinner.
- Cut each sheet into 12 equal squares.
Step 4: Fill the Pastries
- Place about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling in the center of each square.
- Bring the four corners together over the filling.
- Pinch the seams tightly to seal and form a small pouch.
Step 5: Arrange on the Tray
- Place each pastry seam-side down on the prepared baking trays.
- Leave about 2 inches (5 cm) between each pastry.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
- Beat the egg with the milk.
- Brush each pastry generously with the egg wash.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or Parmesan if desired.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and deep golden brown.
- Rotate the trays halfway through baking for even browning.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Allow the pastries to cool for 5 minutes.
- Serve warm while the cheese is melted and gooey inside.
Tips
- Add cooked spinach, herbs, or crumbled feta to the filling for extra flavor.
- Use ham, cooked bacon, or shredded chicken for a heartier version.
- Freeze the unbaked pastries for up to 2 months and bake directly from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes to the baking time.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to restore their crispness.
Note: The exact filling in the image isn’t certain, but this recipe recreates the appearance of golden, flaky cheese-filled puff pastry bites with a crispy exterior and a soft, melty center.