Kid-Friendly Puff Pastry Treats That Are Easy to Make

Puff pastry is a lifesaver when it comes to quick, fun and kid-approved snacks or desserts. Whether it is a surprise addition to your child’s lunchbox or a sweet treat for a playdate, puff pastry opens up a world of possibilities. The flaky, buttery layers are a blank canvas for endless creativity, you can fill it with sweet or savory fillings. Plus puff pastry is super forgiving so it is perfect for little hands to get involved. It is the perfect way to get your kids in the kitchen, teaching them basic cooking skills and making family memories.

From fruit turnovers and mini pizzas to cheese pinwheels and chocolate-filled twists, puff pastry turns the simplest ingredients into bite-sized treats. It is also a great way to sneak in some healthy options, spinach and cheese parcels for example are a great way to make greens more appealing.

The best part? You do not have to spend hours in the kitchen, store-bought puff pastry sheets work like a dream and save you time. So roll up your sleeves, grab your favorite ingredients and whip up some puff pastry treats that will make your kids smile and maybe even ask for more!

How To Make Perfect And Flaky Chocolate Puff Pastry

Who doesn’t love flaky puff pastry and gooey chocolate? This super easy chocolate puff pastry recipe is perfect for kids, whether as an after-school snack or party dessert. Here is how to make these perfectly puffed pastries:

Ingredients

• 2 sheets ready-made puff pastry sheets
• 150 grams milk chocolate or dark chocolate bars
• 2 tsp powdered sugar
• 1 egg
• 1tsp butter

Method

• Thaw the puff pastry sheets as per package instructions. Keep them at room temperature until soft but not sticky.
• Roll out the pastry sheet slightly on a floured surface. Cut it into equal rectangles (around 4x6 inches each).
• Place a small piece of chocolate or a spoonful of chocolate spread in the center of each rectangle. Don’t overfill so it doesn’t leak.
• Fold the rectangle in half, covering the chocolate. Use a fork to press the edges together to seal.
• Lightly brush the tops with egg wash (beat 1 egg) or milk for a shiny finish after baking.
• Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the pastries on a greased or parchment-lined baking tray. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
• Let them cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if you want to get extra sweet.
• Serve warm for best results, with melty chocolate inside. Can be served at room temperature too.

Kid-Friendly Puff Pastry Treats

1. Cheesy Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Kids love cheese and these pinwheels are no exception, simply spread a mix of mozzarella, cheddar and a little pizza sauce onto puff pastry, roll up tightly and slice into rounds. Bake until golden and you will have crispy, gooey pinwheels for snacking or lunchboxes. Add a sprinkle of oregano for a pizza touch.

2. Mini Fruit Turnovers

Turnovers are the ultimate sweet treat for kids. Fill small squares of puff pastry with a spoonful of fruit jam or pie filling (blueberry, apple or mango work well), fold into triangles and seal the edges. Brush with milk or egg wash for that perfect golden finish and bake until puffed and crispy.

3. Chocolate-Filled Puff Pastry Pockets

For the chocoholics in your family, these are a must-try, place pieces of chocolate or a dollop of chocolate spread in the centre of puff pastry squares, fold into a pocket and bake. The result is a flaky, golden exterior with a melty, chocolaty core that’s impossible to resist.

4. Veggie-Stuffed Puff Pastry Parcels

Sneak some veggies into your kids’ diets with these savory parcels. Sauté spinach, corn and grated carrots with a bit of cheese or cream and spoon the mixture onto the pastry. Fold and seal into parcels and bake until golden. These are a nutritious and delicious snack even the picky eaters will love.

5. Cinnamon Sugar Twists

Easy and yummy, kids love these, to make it cut puff pastry into strips, brush with butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Twist and bake until crispy and caramelized, perfect for a quick dessert or afternoon treat.

6. Mini Puff Pastry Pizzas

These little pizzas are a winner, use puff pastry as the base, spread with pizza sauce and top with cheese and kid-friendly toppings like sweetcorn, bell peppers or even cooked chicken and bake until bubbly and golden.

7. Puff Pastry Ice Cream Cones

Puff pastry and ice cream, what a combo! Wrap strips of puff pastry around metal cone molds, bake until golden and let cool. When ready, fill it with scoops of your kid's favourite ice cream flavors, and finish it by adding sprinkles on top for a pop of color.