Looking for the perfect holiday appetizers that are easy to make, elegant, and absolutely delicious? These puff pastry bites are a show-stopping addition to your Christmas or New Year’s spread. Featuring three mouthwatering mousse fillings—shrimp, smoked salmon, and chicken—these mini hors d’oeuvres are guaranteed to impress your guests. Plus, with a gluten-free cucumber option, everyone at your party can indulge.

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Step-by-Step Instructions (Video Tutorial Available)

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry Cups

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).

2. Lightly spray a mini muffin tin and wipe off excess to prevent burning.

3. Roll out each puff pastry sheet on a floured surface until slightly thinner.

4. Cut into 2.75-inch (7cm) rounds or squares.

5. Gently press each piece into the muffin tin—don’t stretch the dough.

6. Prick bottoms and sides with a fork.

7. Line each cup with a small square of crumpled parchment and fill with weights.

8. Brush square-shaped cups with egg wash for golden tips.

9. Chill in fridge for 15 minutes.

10. Bake for 15 minutes.

11. Remove weights and parchment.

12. Brush insides with egg wash and bake another 5 minutes until golden.

13. Cool completely on a rack before filling.

2. Make the Mousse Fillings

Salmon Mousse:

1. In a food processor, blend cream cheese, smoked salmon (reserve some for garnish), Ranch cheese, and lemon juice.

2. Add heavy cream gradually to reach a light, smooth consistency.

3. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.

Chicken Mousse:

1. Blend cooked chicken with cream cheese and heavy cream.

2. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Chill until ready to use.

Shrimp Mousse:

1. Boil shrimp in salted water with a pinch of pepper.

2. Reserve a few whole shrimp for garnish.

3. Blend the rest with cream cheese, lemon juice, Ranch cheese, and cream.

4. Chill for at least 1 hour.

3. Assemble the Appetizers

1. Fill each puff pastry cup using a piping bag for a neat, professional look.

2. Garnish shrimp mousse with a whole shrimp.

3. Top salmon mousse with chives and reserved smoked salmon.

4. Decorate chicken mousse with sliced olives, tomatoes, and capers.

5. Optional: use cucumber slices as a base for a gluten-free alternative.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Mousse fillings can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

• Puff pastry cups can be baked up to 6 hours ahead. Store uncovered.

• Assemble just before serving for the best texture.

Festive Puff Pastry Appetizers: 3 Irresistible Holiday Party Bites

Why You’ll Love These Puff Pastry Bites

• Easy to Make Ahead: All fillings can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance.

• Versatile Flavors: Choose from shrimp, salmon, or chicken—or make all three.

• Perfect for Entertaining: Elegant presentation with minimal effort.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use cucumber slices instead of puff pastry for a low-carb, gluten-free version.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Shells (makes 24 bites)

• 2 sheets puff pastry (about 17.3 oz / 490g), thawed

• Non-stick spray

• Flour for dusting

• 1 large egg + 1 tbsp milk or water (for egg wash)

• Pie weights, lentils, or other oven-safe weights

• Mini muffin tin

Salmon Mousse (fills 12 cups)

• 3 oz (85g) smoked salmon (reserve slices for garnish)

• 4.2 oz (120g) cream cheese, room temperature

• 1.4 oz (40g) Ranch cheese (or any flavorful semi-hard cheese)

• 2–3 tbsp heavy cream

• 1–2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• Chives, for garnish

Chicken Mousse (fills 12 cups)

• 12.3 oz (350g) cooked, seasoned chicken

• 4.2 oz (120g) cream cheese, room temperature

• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream

• Salt, pepper, garlic and onion powder, to taste

• Capers, olives, and cherry tomatoes for garnish

Shrimp Mousse (fills 12 cups)

• 10.6 oz (300g) shrimp (reserve a few with tails for garnish)

• 4.2 oz (120g) cream cheese, room temperature

• 1.4 oz (40g) Ranch cheese

• 2–3 tbsp heavy cream

• 1–2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

More Holiday Appetizer Ideas

• Mini Quiches

• Stuffed Mushrooms

• Cheese & Charcuterie Boards

• Deviled Eggs with a Twist

Final Thoughts

These elegant puff pastry appetizers are perfect for any holiday party or special occasion. With three delicious flavors to choose from and a stunning presentation, they’re sure to disappear fast. Don’t forget the gluten-free cucumber base option so everyone can enjoy!

Pin this recipe, share it with friends, and tag me when you make it! Let’s make the holidays delicious together.

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Festive Puff Pastry Appetizers - Video

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