Image Source from wandercooks

Mini Party Quiches with Puff Pastry

When it comes to entertaining, nothing beats the versatility and elegance of mini party quiches. Not only are they delightful to taste, but they also bring an air of sophistication to any gathering. With their flaky puff pastry bases and a plethora of filling options, these petite treats are sure to impress your guests. If you’re looking for an easy yet stunning addition to your party menu, look no further than these mini party quiches made with puff pastry.

The Perfect Pastry

Puff pastry is a game-changer in the world of quiches. Its light and flaky texture perfectly complements the creamy filling, creating a delightful contrast that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye. You can either make your own puff pastry from scratch—if you’re feeling adventurous—or, for a quicker option, use store-bought pastry, which can save time without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make around 24 mini quiches, you will need:

• For the pastry:

  • 2 sheets of ready-to-roll puff pastry
  • Flour, for dusting
• For the filling:
  • 4 large eggs
  • 300 ml double cream or whole milk
  • 100 g cheese (cheddar, feta, or goat’s cheese), grated or crumbled
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (like chives, parsley, or thyme), finely chopped
  • A selection of vegetables (such as spinach, bell peppers, leeks, or mushrooms), pre-cooked and chopped
  • Optional: diced ham or smoked salmon for a non-vegetarian option

Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens), or 400°F.

2. Prepare the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets to about 3mm thick. Using a round cutter (around 10cm/4 inches in diameter), cut out circles of pastry. You should get about 12 circles from each sheet.

3. Line the Tin: Gently press the pastry circles into a greased mini muffin tin, ensuring they cover the base and the sides. Prick the bottom of each pastry case with a fork to prevent bubbling.

4. Blind Bake: To ensure a crisp base, blind bake the pastry cases for about 10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

5. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and cream or milk. Stir in the cheese, salt, pepper, fresh herbs, and any additional add-ins such as vegetables or meat.

6. Fill the Pastry Cases: Carefully pour the filling mixture into each pastry case, filling them to about ¾ full to allow for expansion during baking.

7. Bake: Return the filled quiches to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown on top.

8. Cool and Serve: Allow the quiches to cool slightly in the tin before carefully transferring them to a wire rack. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a perfect make-ahead option for parties.

Serving Suggestions

Mini party quiches pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad, an assortment of dips, or even a selection of pickles. For beverages, a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling elderflower drink can complement the flavours beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Mini party quiches with puff pastry are not only easy to prepare but also endlessly adaptable, allowing you to showcase seasonal ingredients or cater to dietary preferences. Whether you’re planning a garden party, a festive gathering, or a casual get-together, these delightful quiches will surely be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the compliments that come your way as your guests savour every bite of these scrumptious morsels!