Image Source from kotibeth

Air Fryer Pizza Pockets Recipe with Puff Pastry

If you’re seeking a quick and delightful snack that’s sure to please the whole family, look no further than air fryer pizza pockets made with puff pastry. Not only are these treats crispy and delicious, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a light dinner, a party snack, or even a midday treat, this recipe is versatile and can be customised to suit your favourite pizza toppings. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:

• 1 sheet of ready-rolled puff pastry (250g)
• 100g mozzarella cheese, grated (or any cheese of your choice)
• 50g pepperoni slices (or any toppings you prefer, such as vegetables or ham)
• 2 tablespoons pizza sauce (adjust amount to taste)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: dried Italian herbs (such as oregano or basil) for added flavour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Rolling pin (if necessary, to adjust puff pastry size)
• Baking parchment or silicone baking mat
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry
   Begin by unrolling the sheet of puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. If the pastry is too thick, use a rolling pin to gently roll it out to about 2-3mm thickness. Cut the pastry into equal squares, approximately 10 cm by 10 cm, ensuring you have enough to make your pockets.

2. Add the Filling
   On one half of each pastry square, place a spoonful of pizza sauce, spreading it out carefully but leaving a small border around the edges. Next, add a generous amount of grated mozzarella and your choice of toppings—be it pepperoni, mushrooms, or a mix of your favourite vegetables. Sprinkle some dried herbs, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavour.

3. Seal the Pizza Pockets
   Fold the other half of the pastry square over the fillings, creating a triangular shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security and a decorative touch. This helps to keep all the delicious fillings inside during cooking.

4. Prepare for Cooking
   Place the filled pockets on a piece of baking parchment or a silicone mat for easy transfer to the air fryer. Brush the tops of each pocket with beaten egg to achieve a lovely golden colour when cooked.

5. Cook in the Air Fryer
   Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Carefully place the pizza pockets in the basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded—this allows for even cooking. Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to do this in batches. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pockets are puffed up and golden brown, flipping them halfway through cooking for even browning.

6. Serve and Enjoy
   Once cooked, remove the pizza pockets from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own or with some extra pizza sauce for dipping.

Tips for Success

• Customisation: Feel free to experiment with different fillings. You can substitute the cheese and meats with whatever you have on hand, such as tuna, feta cheese with spinach, or even a sweet version using Nutella and banana for dessert pockets!

• Storage: If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

• Cooking Time: Air fryer models can vary, so keep an eye on your pizza pockets as they cook to prevent over-browning.

In summary, air fryer pizza pockets made with puff pastry are a quick and enjoyable recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With a golden, flaky exterior and warm, cheesy interior, they’re sure to be a hit. So why not gather your favourite toppings and whip up a batch today? Enjoy!