The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Marilyn, 38, from the beautiful island of Crete in Greece. Every Halloween, I love bringing a little magic into my kitchen and these Ghostly Puff Pastry Pockets are one of my favorite spooky traditions.
When I was little, my grandmother and I used to make spanakopita (Greek spinach pie) with layers of delicate phyllo and herbed cheese. The smell of buttery pastry baking always filled the house, wrapping us in warmth. Years later, I decided to give that memory a Halloween twist transforming those comforting flavors into adorable, ghost-shaped hand pies!
These Ghostly Puff Pastry Pockets are golden, flaky, and filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, herbs, and garlic. They puff up beautifully in the oven and peek at you with cute little “eyes” cut into the dough. I love serving them at Halloween parties because they’re bite-sized, easy to make, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
If you’re looking for a creative Halloween appetizer that’s both savory and spooky, this Ghostly Puff Pastry Pockets recipe is for you. It’s simple, elegant, and playful a little taste of Greece with a hauntingly fun twist!
Ingredients
To make your own batch of Ghostly Puff Pastry Pockets, you’ll need:
- 1 package (2 sheets) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- A small round piping tip or straw (for cutting “eyes”)
Optional:
- Black sesame seeds or tiny olive pieces for eyes
- Marinara or pesto sauce for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella (or feta), parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and smooth. This herbed filling will make your ghostly pockets irresistibly flavorful.
Step 2 – Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out each puff pastry sheet to smooth the creases. Use a ghost-shaped cookie cutter (or freehand with a small knife) to cut out ghost shapes. You’ll need two for each pocket a bottom and a top.
Step 3 – Fill the Ghosts
Place one ghost-shaped pastry on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon about one tablespoon of the herbed ricotta mixture into the center, leaving edges clean. Gently place another ghost cutout on top and press around the edges with a fork to seal.
Step 4 – Add the Eyes
Use a small straw, piping tip, or knife to cut two little “eyes” near the top of each ghost. This gives them their spooky, adorable personality! If you want, press a tiny olive piece or black sesame seed in the holes to make darker eyes.
Step 5 – Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush it lightly over each pastry to give it a golden, shiny finish when baked.
Step 6 – Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–18 minutes, or until golden and puffed. The ghosts will rise beautifully, and the aroma will fill your kitchen with buttery bliss.
Step 7 – Serve and Spook!
Let your Ghostly Puff Pastry Pockets cool slightly, then serve them on a Halloween platter with marinara or pesto for dipping. They’re best enjoyed warm, flaky, and smiling up at you with those cheeky ghost faces!
Serving Suggestions
These Ghostly Puff Pastry Pockets make a great appetizer for Halloween gatherings, family dinners, or even as a fun after-school snack. Serve them alongside:
- A bowl of marinara or garlic aioli
- Roasted tomato soup for dipping
- Or as part of a spooky charcuterie board
They can also be made ahead and reheated just before serving perfect for busy Halloween hosts!
Conclusion
If you’re searching for a Halloween recipe that’s equal parts spooky and delicious, these Ghostly Puff Pastry Pockets are your answer. They combine flaky pastry, creamy herbed filling, and festive fun all in one adorable bite.
Cooking should be about joy, laughter, and creativity. Whether you’re making these with your kids, friends, or just for yourself, they’ll bring a little extra magic to your Halloween season. After all, who could resist these golden, ghostly smiles fresh from the oven?