Tasty Smoked Salmon Pastries are a bite-sized indulgence—flaky, buttery layers of puff pastry topped with a tangy cream cheese filling and rich smoked salmon. They’re elegant enough for brunch or holiday parties yet simple enough for a casual snack. Every bite brings crisp pastry, smooth cream, and that signature smoky flavor that makes this recipe unforgettable.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Smoked Salmon Puff
These pastries balance rich textures and fresh flavors in the best way possible.
- Flaky puff pastry pairs beautifully with creamy cheese
- Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or brunch bite
- Elegant presentation with minimal effort
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Make-ahead friendly for easy entertaining
- Savory, creamy, and slightly smoky flavor in every bite
This recipe reminds me of a catering gig I worked at near Lake Travis—fancy event, champagne everywhere, but everyone kept going back for these salmon pastries. That’s when I realized good food doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs the right balance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This elegant bite-sized recipe uses simple ingredients for maximum flavor.
Main Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed – flaky, buttery base
- 1 egg (beaten with splash of water) – creates that golden shine
- 6 tablespoons whipped cream cheese, softened – creamy base for the filling
- 1½ teaspoons whole grain mustard – tangy flavor contrast
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives – adds freshness and color
- 5 square pieces smoked salmon, cut into 1-inch squares – rich, salty topping
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Use dill or parsley instead of chives for variety
- Swap whole grain mustard for Dijon for a smoother flavor
- Add lemon zest for brightness
- Sprinkle with capers for a classic salmon pairing
- Use herbed cream cheese for extra depth
- Replace puff pastry with mini phyllo shells for bite-size canapés
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is all about timing—flaky pastry, creamy center, and that punch of salmon. Don’t rush the chill time; it helps the flavors come together.
- Prepare the Pastry
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 2-inch squares. Brush with beaten egg wash for shine. - Bake the Pastry
Place pastry squares on the baking sheet and bake for 12–14 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Let cool completely before topping. - Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, mix whipped cream cheese, whole grain mustard, and chopped chives until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. - Assemble the Pastries
Spoon a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each cooled pastry square. Gently place a piece of smoked salmon on top. Garnish with extra chives or a touch of lemon zest if desired. - Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving for a firmer texture.
Quick Reminders:
- Don’t overbake—watch closely after 10 minutes.
- Let pastries cool before adding filling to keep them crisp.
- Use high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor.
- Serve cold or room temperature for perfect texture.
Expert Tips for Success
The key to this recipe is balancing rich and fresh elements.
- Use whipped cream cheese for easier mixing.
- Cut pastry evenly so they puff up uniformly.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese.
- Prep the components ahead and assemble before serving.
- Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning for extra crunch.
If you love elegant appetizers like this, try my Apricot and Goat Cheese Appetizers or Pistachio Crusted Brie Bites. Both pair beautifully with these salmon pastries on a brunch board.
Serving Suggestions
These Tasty Smoked Salmon Pastries make a perfect addition to any spread.
- Serve as an appetizer at brunch or cocktail parties
- Pair with fresh fruit or cucumber salad for contrast
- Add to a breakfast buffet with bagels and lox
- Serve with sparkling water or light tea
- Arrange on a charcuterie-style board with Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Bites
- Garnish with dill sprigs or capers for a professional finish
They’re elegant, balanced, and always get compliments—ideal for when you want a simple but impressive dish.
Storing and Reheating
This recipe stores beautifully when kept cool and crisp.
How to Store It
- Store unassembled pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days
- Keep cream cheese filling and salmon refrigerated separately
- Once assembled, refrigerate and eat within 24 hours for best freshness
- Avoid freezing—it affects pastry texture
How to Reheat It
- Reheat plain puff pastry in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes to refresh crispiness
- Do not heat the assembled pastries (the salmon and cream cheese won’t handle heat well)
- Assemble right before serving for best results
Nutrition Information
- Serves: 5
- Calories: 240
- Total Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Calcium: 6% DV
- Iron: 4% DV
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the pastry and mix the filling a day ahead. Assemble right before serving.
Can I use a different fish?
Sure—try thin slices of cooked shrimp or crab for variety.
Can I make this without puff pastry?
Yes, use toasted baguette slices or crackers for a similar experience.
Final Thoughts
Tasty Smoked Salmon Pastries are the perfect blend of flaky, creamy, and savory. They’re elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for everyday snacking. Whether for brunch, holidays, or a cozy afternoon, these little bites always impress.
- Keep ingredients fresh and chilled
- Assemble just before serving
- Let the simplicity and flavor shine
Tasty Smoked Salmon Pastries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out puff pastry and cut into 2-inch squares. Brush tops with egg wash.
- Place pastry squares on the baking sheet and bake for 13 minutes or until golden and puffed. Let cool completely.
- In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, mustard, and chives until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Spoon a dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each cooled pastry. Top with a piece of smoked salmon. Garnish with extra chives or lemon zest if desired.
- Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- No pork or alcohol included.
