Anchovy Puffs
Savory, flaky puff pastries filled with anchovy paste and pecans offer a richly flavorful appetizer perfect for entertaining or snacking with a savory punch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the flour and mix, then chill the mixture.
- Roll the chilled dough very thin.
- Cut out rounds using a small biscuit cutter.
- Spread each round with anchovy paste and top with a few pecans.
- Fold the rounds to make puffs.
- Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes until golden.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before blending. You can substitute the anchovy paste with finely chopped olives for a vegetarian option. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds work well too. Consider adding herbs like dill or parsley to the filling for extra flavor, reminiscent of dishes like the Zesty Clam Dip.
Serving Suggestions
These Anchovy Puffs make a delightful appetizer for gatherings. Serve them hot alongside a fresh salad or pair with a creamy dip like the Trout Cheese Ball for a complete spread. They also complement a glass of crisp white wine, enhancing the savory flavors, making them a perfect choice for an elegant seafood recipes evening.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Anchovy Puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Anchovy Puffs contains roughly 69 calories, with 2g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After chilling it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before rolling out.
What can I serve with Anchovy Puffs?
Pair Anchovy Puffs with a tart dipping sauce, such as a lemon aioli or a simple yogurt dip. They also go well with a fresh green salad or a seafood platter for a more extensive appetizer spread.
Can I freeze the Anchovy Puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked puffs. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).