Star-Shaped Pesto Dip (Printable)

A creamy basil pesto filling nestled in a golden star-shaped pastry with crisp edges, perfect for sharing.

# Ingredient list:

→ Pesto Dip

01 - 7 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 3.5 oz ricotta cheese
03 - 3 oz basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
04 - 1 garlic clove, finely minced
05 - 0.7 oz grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
07 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Star Shape & Cracker Edges

08 - 1 sheet puff pastry (about 9 oz), thawed
09 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
10 - 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
11 - Extra Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling

# Cooking steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to approximately 1/8 inch thick. Using a large star-shaped cookie cutter (8 inches across), cut out a star shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
03 - Cut strips about 0.6 inches wide from the leftover pastry. Arrange these strips around the star edges to create a raised border, pressing gently to seal.
04 - Brush the pastry edges with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
05 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely.
06 - In a bowl, mix cream cheese, ricotta, pesto, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
07 - Carefully move the cooled pastry star to a serving platter. Spoon the pesto filling into the center and spread evenly within the raised border.
08 - Serve immediately, using the crispy pastry edges to scoop up the dip.

# Expert advice:

01 -
  • The beautiful star shape adds a festive touch that instantly elevates your appetizer spread.
  • Crispy cracker-like edges made from puff pastry are perfect for scooping up creamy, flavorful pesto dip.
  • Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 35 minutes making it ideal for last-minute entertaining.
  • A crowd-pleaser that is vegetarian and suitable for a variety of diets.
02 -
  • Use a large star-shaped cookie cutter around 20 cm wide for the best size contrast between pastry edges and dip.
  • Press the pastry border strips gently but firmly to prevent separating during baking.
  • Apply an egg wash evenly to promote a rich golden color and help toppings like sesame seeds stick.
  • Allow the pastry to cool fully before filling to maintain crunchiness when serving.
  • Check the pesto for nuts if allergies are a concern, especially when using store-bought versions.
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