Cheese Pastries

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
   • On a lightly floured surface, unfold your thawed puff pastry. If it’s in a block, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick.
   • Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. The size can vary, but 4×4 inches is a good starting point.
2. Assemble the Pastries:
   • Spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill.
   • Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle, depending on the shape you started with. Press the edges to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
3. Apply Egg Wash:
   • Brush the top of each pastry with the beaten egg. This will give your cheese pastries a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish.
4. Bake:
   • Place the prepared pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
5. Serving:
   • Allow the pastries to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Tips:

• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the filling. Feta, Gruyère, and Parmesan are all excellent choices.
• Add-Ins: For a more complex flavor, consider adding cooked spinach, mushrooms, or even some diced ham or bacon to the cheese mixture.
• Storage: These pastries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Enjoy your homemade cheese pastries! They’re perfect for when you want something savory, cheesy, and utterly delicious.