Cheesy Garlic Cruffin – Buttery, Flaky, and Irresistible

There’s something truly magical about the combination of cheese, garlic, and flaky pastry. Enter the Cheesy Garlic Cruffin—a heavenly hybrid of a croissant and a muffin. Imagine pulling apart delicate layers of golden, buttery pastry infused with rich garlic and melted cheese. The moment you take your first bite, you’re met with a crispy, flaky exterior, followed by a warm, cheesy, and garlicky center that melts in your mouth.

These cruffins are perfect for brunch, an afternoon snack, or as a side to a comforting bowl of soup. They have a bakery-style elegance yet are surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply treating yourself, this recipe guarantees a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flaky, Buttery Layers – Inspired by the beloved croissant, these cruffins have a tender, layered texture.
• Irresistible Cheese & Garlic Flavor – The combination of melted cheese and aromatic garlic creates a rich, savory bite.
• Easy to Make – No need for fancy baking skills; store-bought dough makes this a breeze.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or as a side to your favorite meal.
• Customizable – You can switch up the cheeses and add your favorite herbs for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little spice)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Cruffins

Making these cruffins is easier than you think. With just a few steps, you’ll have golden, cheesy perfection ready to enjoy.

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Stir in the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. This mixture will infuse the pastry with rich, garlicky goodness.

Step 2: Roll Out the Pastry and Add the Cheese

Lightly flour your work surface and gently roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth any creases. Brush the entire surface with the prepared garlic butter mixture, ensuring an even coat. Next, evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the pastry, followed by the chopped parsley.

Step 3: Roll and Slice the Dough

Starting from the longer side of the pastry, carefully roll it into a tight log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log lengthwise down the middle to create two long strips. You’ll see beautiful, cheesy layers inside.

Step 4: Shape the Cruffins

Take one strip and gently twist it, then coil it into a spiral, tucking the ends underneath. Place the twisted dough into a greased muffin tin. Repeat with the second strip.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the tops of the cruffins with the beaten egg for a glossy finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown. The cheese should be melted and slightly crispy around the edges.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the cruffins cool for about 5 minutes before removing them from the muffin tin. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, flaky goodness!

Helpful Tips

• Use Good-Quality Puff Pastry – A buttery, high-quality pastry will give you the best texture and flavor.
• Shred Your Own Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent proper melting, so fresh cheese is best.
• Don’t Skip the Egg Wash – This helps create that gorgeous golden-brown top.
• Experiment with Herbs – Fresh basil, chives, or thyme can add a unique touch.
• Double the Recipe – These cruffins disappear fast, so consider making a bigger batch!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 2 large cruffins (or 4 smaller ones)
• Category: Breakfast, Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Fusion, French-Inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic before adding it to the butter mixture.
• For an extra cheesy pull, add a small cube of cheese in the center before twisting the dough.
• These cruffins taste amazing with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~280
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 320mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the cruffins up to the shaping step, then cover and refrigerate them overnight. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before putting them in the oven.

Can I Freeze Cruffins?

Absolutely! Bake them first, let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Yes! Try parmesan for a sharper flavor, or gouda for a smoky twist. Mix and match to find your favorite combination.

Do I Need to Use a Muffin Tin?

A muffin tin helps the cruffins hold their shape, but if you don’t have one, you can bake them on a lined baking sheet. Just make sure to shape them tightly so they don’t unravel.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store leftover cruffins in an airtight container for 1-2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months, then reheat before serving.

Related Recipes

If you loved this cheesy garlic cruffin, try these next:

• Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls: Your New Favorite Snack
• Cheesy Ground Beef Roll
• Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Bread – Gooey, Buttery, and Irresistible!
• Cheesy Garlic Bread

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Garlic Cruffins are the perfect balance of flaky, cheesy, and garlicky goodness. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy weekend brunch, alongside a warm bowl of soup, or just as a savory snack, they’re bound to be a hit. Best of all, they come together effortlessly with just a few ingredients. Try them out, and let me know how they turn out!

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