Save Flaky puff pastry envelopes a warmly spiced gingerbread filling, creating a whimsical, cozy treat perfect for holiday mornings or festive dessert tables.
This recipe has become a festive favorite in my family, bringing warmth and fun to our holiday table.
Ingredients
- For the Gingerbread Filling: 120 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened, 100 g (1/2 cup) dark brown sugar, 80 g (1/4 cup) molasses, 1 large egg yolk, 180 g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour, 2 tsp ground ginger, 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt
- For the Puff Pastry: 2 sheets (about 500 g) ready-rolled puff pastry, chilled, 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- For Decoration (Optional): 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting), 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips or icing (for faces)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in molasses and egg yolk.
- Step 3:
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 4:
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until a soft gingerbread dough forms. Set aside.
- Step 5:
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 4 equal rectangles (8 total).
- Step 6:
- Place a heaping tablespoon of gingerbread dough in the center of each rectangle. Fold the pastry over to create a pocket, pinching the edges to seal (use a fork for a decorative edge).
- Step 7:
- Arrange the pockets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 16–18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
- Step 9:
- Cool slightly. If desired, dust with powdered sugar and use chocolate chips or icing to make sleeping faces on each pocket.
- Step 10:
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save My family especially treasures making faces on these gingerbread pockets, making every holiday gathering more joyful and interactive.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, Electric mixer or wooden spoon, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Pastry brush, Fork
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy. Check pastry and chocolate chips for traces of nuts or soy as applicable.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 310, Total Fat: 17 g, Carbohydrates: 37 g, Protein: 3 g per serving
Save This delightful treat will warm your holiday spirit and impress your guests with its flavor and charm.
Recipe Questions
- → What spices are used in the gingerbread filling?
The filling combines ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and a pinch of salt for a warmly spiced flavor.
- → How is the puff pastry prepared for filling?
Ready-rolled puff pastry sheets are divided into rectangles, filled with the spiced dough, folded over, sealed at the edges, and brushed with egg wash before baking.
- → Can I decorate the baked pockets?
Yes, optionally dust powdered sugar on top and add mini chocolate chips or icing to create decorative sleeping faces.
- → What serving suggestions complement these pockets?
They pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance their cozy sweetness.
- → Are there vegan alternatives for this dish?
Yes, plant-based butter, an egg replacer, and vegan puff pastry can be used to create a vegan-friendly version.