Star-Shaped Pesto Dip (Printable)

Creamy pesto filling shaped in star pastry with crispy edges, perfect for festive gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pesto Dip

01 - 7 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 3.5 oz ricotta cheese
03 - 2.8 oz basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
04 - 1 garlic clove, finely minced
05 - 0.7 oz grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
07 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Star Shape & Cracker Edges

08 - 1 sheet puff pastry (approx. 8.8 oz), thawed
09 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
10 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
11 - Extra Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling

# Method:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to approximately 1/8 inch thick. Using a large star-shaped cookie cutter about 8 inches across, cut out a star and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
03 - Cut strips about 0.6 inch wide from remaining pastry. Arrange the strips around the edges of the star to form a raised border and press gently to seal.
04 - Brush the pastry edges with the beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
05 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Remove and let cool completely on a wire rack.
06 - In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, ricotta, pesto, minced garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
07 - Carefully transfer the cooled pastry star to a serving platter. Spoon the pesto dip into the center and spread evenly within the border. Serve immediately using the crispy edges to scoop up the dip.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • This recipe turns ordinary pesto dip into a visually striking star, making it a centerpiece on any table.
  • The puff pastry edges provide a perfect crispy vehicle for scooping up the creamy dip.
  • Easy to prepare in under 35 minutes, ideal for quick entertaining.
  • Vegetarian and customizable with optional add-ins for extra flavor.
02 -
  • Use a sharp star-shaped cookie cutter for crisp, clean pastry edges.
  • Cool the pastry completely before adding the dip to keep edges from softening.
  • Brush the pastry border twice with egg wash for a deep golden color.
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds just before baking to add texture and visual interest.
Return