If you’re searching for a flaky, cheesy, and aromatic pastry that’s effortlessly elegant yet incredibly comforting, this Cheesy Puff Pastry Roll with Feta, Cream Cheese, and Herbs is the one to make. It’s a golden, buttery roll that wraps a luscious filling of creamy cheeses and fresh herbs inside delicate puff pastry layers. The combination of feta’s tang, cream cheese’s smoothness, and the bright punch of herbs creates a beautiful harmony of flavor and texture. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a savory appetizer, this recipe brings sophistication without stress — because puff pastry does all the hard work for you! It’s the kind of dish that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen but secretly takes only minutes to assemble.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (about 250 g / 9 oz), thawed if frozen

• 100 g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled

• 100 g (3.5 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 1 egg (for filling)

• 1 egg yolk (for brushing the pastry)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tablespoon chopped dill

• 1 tablespoon chopped chives or green onions

• Salt, to taste (optional — feta is already salty)

• Black pepper, to taste

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder or 1 small clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (optional, for added richness)

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional, for topping)

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the feta cheese, cream cheese, and one egg. Mash and stir until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.

2. Add the herbs and seasonings: Stir in chopped parsley, dill, and chives (or green onions). Add black pepper and a pinch of salt if needed, along with the garlic powder or minced garlic. Mix everything well so the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the cheese filling.

3. Prepare the puff pastry: Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry into a large rectangle (about 10×12 inches). If it’s already pre-rolled, you can use it as is — just make sure it’s smooth and pliable.

4. Assemble the roll: Spread the cheese and herb filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border on all sides. Brush the edges lightly with beaten egg yolk to help seal the roll.

5. Roll it up: Starting from one long edge, gently roll the pastry into a tight log, like a Swiss roll. Press the seam down to seal it, then place the roll seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Brush and top: Brush the entire surface of the roll with the remaining egg yolk. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds or nigella seeds over the top for added crunch and aroma.

7. Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and beautifully golden brown.

8. Cool and slice: Allow the roll to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing it into thick rounds. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dip or a fresh salad.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per slice

• Protein: 10 g

• Carbohydrates: 24 g

• Fat: 20 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Calcium: 160 mg

• Sodium: Moderate to high (due to feta)

• Vitamin A: Good source from herbs and cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall head over heels for this cheesy puff pastry roll because it’s the perfect balance of indulgence and freshness. The combination of feta and cream cheese delivers creamy, tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the buttery crispness of puff pastry. It’s satisfying without being heavy — perfect for any time of day. This roll is also incredibly versatile: it works as a quick brunch centerpiece, a snack with coffee, or an elegant appetizer for gatherings. Best of all, it’s easy enough for beginners but impressive enough for guests — a win-win in every kitchen!

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

This dish draws inspiration from classic Mediterranean and Balkan pastries like burek or spanakopita, which often feature layers of flaky dough filled with cheese, herbs, and sometimes spinach. The concept of wrapping cheese in pastry is ancient and beloved across many cultures, from Greece and Turkey to Eastern Europe. This version simplifies the traditional preparation using ready-made puff pastry while keeping the spirit of those comforting, savory cheese-filled bakes alive. It’s a modern, fuss-free take on an old-world classic — perfect for home cooks who want authentic flavor without the effort of working with phyllo dough.

Ingredient Spotlight

Feta cheese adds a tangy, slightly salty punch that defines the flavor of this dish. Its crumbly texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy smoothness of cream cheese, which adds richness and helps bind the filling. The fresh herbs — parsley, dill, and chives — bring brightness, depth, and an irresistible aroma that elevates the whole roll. Puff pastry, of course, is the star — buttery, crisp, and golden, it provides the perfect vessel for the luscious filling, turning every bite into a mix of crunch and creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it usually disappears fast!), let them cool completely before storing. Wrap the roll in foil or place slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 10 minutes — this keeps the pastry crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked roll for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

Common Variations to Try

The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Try adding spinach, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Swap feta for goat cheese or ricotta for a milder version, or use cheddar for a more familiar, meltier result. If you like a touch of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling. For a sweet-savory twist, drizzle the baked roll with a little honey before serving — the contrast is divine.

Pairing Recommendations

This cheesy puff pastry roll pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. Serve it with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad, a bowl of soup (like tomato, pumpkin, or mushroom), or even a light yogurt dip with garlic and lemon. It’s also fantastic as part of a brunch spread alongside boiled eggs, olives, and roasted vegetables. For drinks, pair it with a glass of white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

Health Benefits

While this pastry is delightfully rich, it also brings some surprising nutritional benefits. Feta is a good source of calcium and protein, supporting bone and muscle health. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and chives are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that support digestion and immunity. Using puff pastry in moderation allows you to enjoy that flaky goodness without overindulging. If you want to lighten it up, you can opt for reduced-fat cheese or use part-skim cream cheese to lower the fat content while keeping all the flavor intact.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Puff Pastry Roll with Feta, Cream Cheese, and Herbs is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s buttery, crispy, creamy, and full of herby flavor — everything you want in a savory bake. Whether you’re serving it warm for brunch, slicing it up for appetizers, or enjoying it as a comforting evening snack, it never fails to impress. The combination of textures and flavors is irresistible, and it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your baking rotation. So go ahead — roll up this cheesy masterpiece, bake it golden, and watch everyone reach for seconds!