Print

Savory Mushroom & Gruyère Puff Pastry Braid Recipe

4.6 from 86 reviews

This Savory Mushroom & Gruyère Puff Pastry Braid is a luscious appetizer or snack featuring a creamy mixture of sautéed mushrooms, onions, garlic, and a blend of rich cheeses, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. The braid technique not only looks impressive but also ensures every bite is packed with flavorful filling. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy meal, it combines earthy mushrooms with the nutty Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses for a truly delightful dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Filling

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 10 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 2 large eggs, divided

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
  3. Cook Mushrooms and Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sliced cremini mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté until the mushrooms are browned and their moisture evaporates, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add Seasonings and Wine: Stir in the fresh thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper to taste. Pour in the dry white wine if using, and cook until the liquid is mostly absorbed, then reduce heat to low.
  5. Create Creamy Filling: Mix in the cream cheese, grated Parmesan, and Dijon mustard into the mushroom mixture, stirring well to form a creamy, cohesive texture. Remove the skillet from heat and quickly fold in the grated Gruyère cheese.
  6. Incorporate Egg: Beat one of the eggs and stir it into the filling mixture swiftly to combine evenly. Allow the filling to cool slightly before assembly.
  7. Prepare Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet on a floured surface. Using a sharp knife, cut 8 diagonal strips along each long side of the pastry, leaving the central strip intact for the filling.
  8. Assemble Braid: Spread the mushroom and cheese filling evenly down the center strip of the puff pastry, leaving some space at the top and bottom edges. Fold the ends over the filling, then carefully braid the diagonal strips over the filling, alternating sides to cover.
  9. Transfer and Glaze: Transfer the braided pastry carefully onto the prepared baking tray, using the parchment paper for support. Beat the remaining egg and brush it generously over the entire braid to give it a shiny, golden finish.
  10. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes until the puff pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
  11. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the braid cool for about 10 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, omit the white wine or use vegetable broth instead.
  • Ensure the filling cools before assembling the pastry to prevent it from becoming soggy.
  • You can substitute Gruyère with Swiss cheese if unavailable.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling mixture.
  • This recipe can be prepared ahead: Assemble but do not bake, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Keywords: mushroom braid, puff pastry appetizer, Gruyère pastry, savory pastry braid, mushroom cream cheese braid