Spinach and Ricotta Croissant

Name: Spinach and Ricotta Croissant
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 10 croissants
Ingredients: 2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 200g fresh spinach, chopped; 250g ricotta cheese; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: SpeedKitchen Ideas

I love making Spinach and Ricotta Croissants for a savory treat that feels indulgent yet light. These flaky pastries are filled with a creamy mixture of fresh spinach and ricotta cheese, creating a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. Whenever I have a gathering, I make these croissants to impress my guests, and they never fail to disappear from the table. Whether for brunch or a snack, these pastries are my go-to for a quick, satisfying bite that always hits the spot.

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:02:28.765Z

When I first tried making croissants at home, I was intimidated by the layers and process. However, using pre-rolled pastry saved time without sacrificing quality. I experimented by adding spinach and ricotta to traditional croissant dough, and it turned out to be a hit! The creamy filling pairs wonderfully with the crispy, buttery layers.

One tip I found helpful is to chill the filled croissants for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps them maintain their shape and ensures a perfectly flaky texture. Trust me, it's worth the wait for that buttery bite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Flaky pastry with a creamy spinach and ricotta filling
Perfect blend of savory and buttery flavors
Great for brunch, snacks, or as party appetizers

Mastering the Flaky Pastry

The key to achieving that perfect flaky texture in your Spinach and Ricotta Croissants lies in the quality of your puff pastry. Always opt for a high-quality, all-butter puff pastry, as the butter content contributes to the layers and flakiness. When rolling out the pastry, work quickly and keep it chilled, as warmer dough doesn't puff as well. If the pastry starts to soften, pop it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes before cutting and shaping.

To ensure your croissants are uniformly golden brown, use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, which helps prevent sticking. Additionally, rotating the baking sheet halfway through the baking time will promote even cooking. Keep an eye on your croissants during the last few minutes in the oven; they're ready when they’re puffed up and boast a rich golden color. This indicates that the pastry has successfully created those beautiful layers.

Filling Variations

While the combination of spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan is delicious, don’t hesitate to customize your filling! For a more robust flavor, you can add crumbled feta or goat cheese, which complement the spinach's earthiness. Chopped sun-dried tomatoes can also be included for a tangy twist, or even sautéed mushrooms for added depth. Just make sure any additional ingredients are adequately cooked and cooled before mixing them with the cheeses, preventing excess moisture.

If you prefer a lighter option, consider substituting part of the ricotta with cottage cheese or a dairy-free cream alternative. This keeps the texture creamy while lowering fat content. For added nutritional benefits, try mixing in chopped herbs such as dill or parsley, which not only brighten the filling but also enhance the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients

For the Croissants

2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Filling

200g fresh spinach, chopped
250g ricotta cheese
50g grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best results!

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper, mix well.

Prepare the Pastry

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into triangles.

Fill the Croissants

Place a spoonful of the spinach and ricotta filling at the wide end of each triangle. Roll each triangle tightly from the wide end to the tip, shaping them into croissants. Pinch the ends to secure the shape.

Bake

Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Let the croissants cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a deliciously flaky treat!

These croissants are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano to the filling. Use freshly made puff pastry if possible for the flakiest result.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

These Spinach and Ricotta Croissants are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the croissants and freeze them before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, no need to thaw; simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. This allows you to enjoy fresh, flaky croissants at a moment’s notice.

If you have leftover baked croissants, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the pastry soggy rather than restoring that delightful flakiness.

Serving Suggestions

These croissants make a delightful brunch centerpiece, especially when served alongside a fresh salad or a platter of seasonal fruit. Their savory flavor pairs beautifully with a light and zesty lemon vinaigrette, enhancing the overall taste experience. If you want to elevate your presentation, serve them with a side of homemade marinara sauce for dipping or a dollop of yogurt mixed with herbs.

For a festive gathering, consider making mini versions of these croissants! Simply cut the triangles smaller and adjust the baking time accordingly, watching them closely for that golden finish. Mini croissants are perfect for finger food at parties or as an accompaniment to drinks, ensuring that your guests will rave about your cooking skills!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw it and squeeze out excess water before using in the filling.

→ How do I store leftover croissants?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can assemble them and freeze before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with these croissants?

They pair well with a light salad or can be served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.