The fastest puff pastry appetizer

Preparation:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make it easier to clean.

Roll out a sheet of puff pastry on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the mustard evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella, then half of the chopped bacon and half of the dill.

Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top and press down lightly so that it closes. Repeat the layering process with the remaining mustard, cheese, bacon, and dill. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish, then lightly score the dough into squares or rectangles without cutting all the way through.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the dough is puffed up and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Serve hot with ketchup for dipping, if desired.

Variations
For a smoky touch, you can add a pinch of paprika or smoked cheese instead of mozzarella. If you prefer it spicier, mix some hot sauce into the mustard or replace it with a spicy aioli. The possibilities are endless, so experiment with different cheeses, spreads, or cured meats like prosciutto or salami.

Vegetarians can easily customize this recipe by omitting the bacon and adding caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables. Sun-dried tomatoes or olives also add a touch of Mediterranean flavor to the whole. The most important thing is to keep the layers in balance so that the dough stays crispy and the flavors shine.

Fresh herbs make a big difference, but you can use dried herbs if you have that on hand. Try thyme, oregano, or chives for a different aromatic kick. If you’re not a fan of mustard, pesto or garlic butter works just as well as a base layer.

Tips
For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven before shredding it and adding it to the batter. This keeps it crispy even after cooking. If you’re short on time, precooked bacon chunks or store-bought crispy bacon chunks are a good shortcut.

If you’re working with puff pastry, keep it refrigerated until ready to use so it doesn’t get sticky or difficult to handle. If the dough gets too soft when you put it together, put it in the fridge for a few minutes before baking.

To ensure even cooking, rotate the tray halfway through cooking if your oven has hot spots. If the puff pastry is uneven, you can press it lightly with a spatula while still hot.

How to store leftovers
can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, transfer to the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes until warm and crispy again. Avoid heating in the microwave or the dough will become mushy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the compound dough uncooked before adding the egg wash.

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to a month. When it’s ready to bake, brush with egg and bake frozen, extending the cooking time for a few more minutes.

If you want to prepare the components in advance, bake and chop the bacon in advance and grate the cheese the night before. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake.

Conclusion This puff pastry appetizer is a guaranteed hit
, whether you’re hosting a party or just in the mood for a savory treat. With flaky layers, rich cheeses, smoked bacon, and fresh herbs, every bite is a delicious combination of textures and flavors. Plus, the ease of handling store-bought pastries means you can make them in no time.

Customizable, fast, and always a crowd pleaser, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Serve it hot with your favorite dip and watch it disappear in minutes. Whether it’s for a special occasion or an everyday snack, it’s a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.