Pin Festive, bite-sized snacks featuring a creamy spinach and cheese filling wrapped in golden pastry, perfect for celebrating St. Patricks Day.
I first made these for a family gathering and they were a huge hit everyone loved the creamy filling and the festive look.
Ingredients
- Filling: 100 g fresh spinach, chopped 125 g cream cheese, softened 60 g shredded cheddar cheese 1 garlic clove, minced 1/4 tsp salt 1/8 tsp black pepper
- Pastry: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (about 250 g) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Decoration: 24 small fresh basil leaves (for clover effect)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a pan over medium heat, wilt the spinach for 1 minute, then squeeze out excess moisture and cool slightly.
- Step 3:
- In a bowl, mix the spinach, cream cheese, cheddar, garlic, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Step 4:
- Unroll the puff pastry and cut into 24 equal squares (about 5 x 5 cm each).
- Step 5:
- Place 1 heaping teaspoon of the filling in the center of each square.
- Step 6:
- Fold the corners of each square towards the center, pinching to seal and form a four-leaf clover shape.
- Step 7:
- Brush the tops with beaten egg.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
- Step 9:
- Remove from the oven and immediately garnish each bite with a fresh basil leaf clover on top.
- Step 10:
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Pin These bites bring the family together every St Patricks Day we enjoy making and sharing them.
Preparation Tips
Use fresh spinach and be sure to drain it well to prevent soggy pastry.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as an appetizer alongside Irish lager or sparkling water with a slice of lime.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven.
Pin These Lucky Clover St Patricks Day Bites are perfect for festive celebrations and quick to prepare.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I substitute the spinach with other greens?
Yes, baby kale or arugula work well as alternatives, offering a slightly different flavor while maintaining the leafiness.
- → How do I achieve the clover shape with the pastry?
Cut the puff pastry into squares, place filling in the center, then fold each corner toward the middle and pinch to seal, forming a four-leaf clover shape.
- → What is the best way to ensure the pastry is golden and crisp?
Brush the tops with beaten egg before baking and bake at 200°C (400°F) until puffed and golden, usually 15–18 minutes.
- → Can I add a spicy kick to the filling?
Absolutely, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling mixture will provide a gentle warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- → What pairs well with these bites for serving?
A cold Irish lager or sparkling water with lime complements the creamy and savory flavors nicely, enhancing the festive feel.