Save Celebrate your next gathering with this delightful Star-Shaped Pesto Dip with Cracker Edges—a charming appetizer that combines creamy, savory pesto filling nestled within a crispy, golden puff pastry shaped like a festive star. It’s as fun to look at as it is delicious to eat, making it the perfect centerpiece for parties or holiday celebrations.
Save This appetizer combines classic Italian-inspired flavors with a playful presentation. The tender puff pastry crackles as you bite, perfectly complementing the rich herbaceousness of the pesto-infused cream cheese filling. It’s a unique way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- For the Pesto Dip
- 200 g cream cheese, softened
- 100 g ricotta cheese
- 80 g basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 20 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Star Shape & Cracker Edges
- 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250 g), thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about 3 mm thick. Using a large star-shaped cookie cutter (about 20 cm across), cut out a star shape. Place the pastry star on the prepared baking sheet.
- 3. With the remaining pastry, cut strips about 1.5 cm wide. Arrange these strips around the edges of the star to form a raised border. Press gently to seal.
- 4. Brush the pastry edges with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- 5. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
- 6. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, pesto, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- 7. Once the pastry base has cooled, carefully transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon the pesto dip into the center of the star and spread evenly within the border.
- 8. Serve immediately, using the crispy pastry edges as crackers to scoop up the dip.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best puff pastry texture, make sure it is fully thawed but still cold before rolling out. Handle the pastry gently to keep it flaky. Allow the pastry to cool completely before adding the dip to prevent sogginess. Finely mince the garlic to distribute flavor evenly without overpowering the blend.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, add sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives to the dip mixture. Use gluten-free puff pastry to accommodate a gluten-free diet. Experiment with different pesto varieties such as sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto for a unique twist.
Serviervorschläge
This star-shaped pesto dip pairs wonderfully with crisp white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Serve alongside fresh vegetable sticks or additional crackers to create a diverse appetizer platter perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Save Enjoy this festive and flavorful appetizer that brings a touch of elegance and deliciousness to any occasion. The irresistible combination of creamy pesto dip and crispy star-shaped pastry edges is sure to become a new favorite in your entertaining repertoire.
Common recipe questions
- → What types of cheese are used in this dish?
Cream cheese, ricotta, and grated Parmesan combine to create a smooth and rich filling with layers of flavor.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, the pastry can be shaped and baked ahead of time, and the filling can be mixed and refrigerated until ready to serve.
- → How do I achieve crisp pastry edges?
Ensure even thickness when rolling the puff pastry and bake at the recommended temperature until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
- → Are there garnish options to enhance flavor?
Sesame seeds sprinkled on the pastry edges add nutty flavor and texture, and extra Parmesan can be used for a salty finish.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this dish uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients and contains no meat products.