Save to Pinterest Flaky puff pastry envelopes a warmly spiced gingerbread filling, creating a whimsical, cozy treat perfect for holiday mornings or festive dessert tables.
This recipe has become a beloved holiday tradition for me and my family, bringing warmth and joy to our celebrations.
Ingredients
- For the Gingerbread Filling: 120 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened, 100 g (1/2 cup) dark brown sugar, 80 g (1/4 cup) molasses, 1 large egg yolk, 180 g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour, 2 tsp ground ginger, 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt
- For the Puff Pastry: 2 sheets (about 500 g) ready-rolled puff pastry, chilled, 1 large egg beaten (for egg wash)
- For Decoration (Optional): 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting), 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips or icing (for faces)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in molasses and egg yolk.
- Step 3:
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 4:
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until a soft gingerbread dough forms. Set aside.
- Step 5:
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 4 equal rectangles (8 total).
- Step 6:
- Place a heaping tablespoon of gingerbread dough in the center of each rectangle. Fold the pastry over to create a pocket, pinching the edges to seal (use a fork for a decorative edge).
- Step 7:
- Arrange the pockets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
- Step 9:
- Cool slightly. If desired, dust with powdered sugar and use chocolate chips or icing to make sleeping faces on each pocket.
- Step 10:
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save to Pinterest Sharing these pockets with my family always sparks smiles and warm memories around the holiday table.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls Electric mixer or wooden spoon Baking sheet Parchment paper Pastry brush Fork
Nutritional Information
Calories 310 Total Fat 17 g Carbohydrates 37 g Protein 3 g per serving
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Save to Pinterest These pockets bring festive charm to any occasion and are simple enough for busy holiday preparations.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of pastry is used for the pockets?
Ready-rolled puff pastry sheets provide the flaky, buttery exterior that crisps beautifully around the spiced filling.
- → How is the gingerbread filling flavored?
The filling combines brown sugar, molasses, and ground spices like ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg for a warmly spiced profile.
- → Can these pockets be made vegan?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter, use an egg replacer, and select vegan puff pastry to make a vegan-friendly version.
- → What is the best way to seal the pockets?
Pinch the edges firmly and use a fork to crimp for a decorative and secure seal that prevents leakage while baking.
- → How should the pockets be served?
Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar and decorated with chocolate chips or icing.
- → Can I add any extra flavors to the filling?
Adding a pinch of orange zest brightens the filling with a fresh citrus note that complements the spices.