Mini Spinach Ricotta Rolls Recipe

There is something truly irresistible about these Mini Spinach Ricotta Rolls that makes them my go-to snack whenever I want a little comfort with a sophisticated twist. Picture golden, buttery puff pastry crisply hugging a creamy, cheesy spinach and ricotta filling that’s both fresh and indulgent. Whether you’re serving them at a casual gathering or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these Mini Spinach Ricotta Rolls bring together simple ingredients to create a snack that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beautiful thing about this recipe is how few ingredients you need, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flaky, creamy, and fresh. Every component is simple but essential, adding color, texture, and flavor without overcomplicating the process.

• 1 sheet puff pastry: This flaky, buttery base is what makes the rolls golden and crisp on the outside.
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, ricotta brings the luscious texture that melts in your mouth.
• 1/2 cup spinach, chopped: Fresh chopped spinach adds vibrant color and a light earthy flavor that balances the cheese.
• 1 egg: Used for both mixing into the filling and brushing on the pastry to create a beautiful golden glaze.

How to Make Mini Spinach Ricotta Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Begin by combining the ricotta cheese and chopped spinach in a bowl. Crack in the egg and mix everything until well incorporated. This mixture should be creamy but firm enough to spread evenly over your puff pastry sheet without running everywhere. The egg here acts like a binder, helping everything stick together beautifully once baked.

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Unfold or roll your puff pastry sheet gently on a clean surface. Make sure it’s even and not sticking to the surface by lightly dusting with flour if needed. The puff pastry is your canvas, so handle it carefully to maintain its flakiness. Spreading your filling evenly across the pastry is the key to rolling and slicing without the filling escaping during baking.

Step 3: Spread the Filling

Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the spinach and ricotta filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. This helps seal in the filling as you roll and prevents leakage. The more evenly you spread, the better each mini roll will hold together and bake evenly.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Starting from one edge, roll the puff pastry tightly into a log, keeping the filling encased inside. Then, using a sharp knife, slice the roll into approximately 12 equal pieces. This step is the real fun part — you get those beautiful spiral swirls of green and white that peek through once baked and add visual appeal along with flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

Place your mini rolls cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each roll lightly with beaten egg to give them that gorgeous golden sheen as they bake. Pop them into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 25 minutes until they are puffed, golden, and irresistibly crispy on the outside while remaining soft and creamy within.

How to Serve Mini Spinach Ricotta Rolls

Garnishes

These rolls are lovely just as they are, but if you want to elevate them further, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a light dusting of grated Parmesan adds a subtle savory punch. You can also top them with finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness and a pop of color that complements the spinach.

Side Dishes

Mini Spinach Ricotta Rolls pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad for a light lunch or alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup to add a satisfying flaky contrast. For a party spread, include a variety of dips like marinated olives or a tangy marinara sauce for guests to enjoy some dipping fun.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to make these rolls the star of your table, arrange them on a decorative platter lined with fresh greens or edible flowers. You can also skewer a few together with toothpicks for easy grabbing at casual occasions. Another idea is to serve them alongside a colorful antipasto board for a delightful Italian-inspired snack spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Mini Spinach Ricotta Rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making them a perfect snack to enjoy later without losing their crispness completely.

Freezing

You can freeze these rolls before baking by arranging the sliced rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 1 month. When ready, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to achieve that perfect golden crust.

Reheating

To reheat, place the rolls on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as this tends to soften the pastry, losing that essential flaky texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach for the filling?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the spinach completely and squeeze out any excess water before mixing it with the ricotta. This prevents the filling from becoming too wet and soggy.

What type of ricotta cheese works best?

Fresh whole-milk ricotta is ideal because it’s creamier and richer. Avoid using the drier, grainy varieties meant for cooking, as they can make the filling less smooth.

Can these rolls be made gluten-free?

Yes! Try using a gluten-free puff pastry available in many grocery stores. The filling remains the same, and you’ll still enjoy that crispy, flaky texture.

Is it possible to add other ingredients to the filling?

Definitely! You can incorporate finely chopped herbs like basil or oregano, a little grated Parmesan for extra flavor, or even a pinch of nutmeg to make the filling even more flavorful.

How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?

Spreading the filling evenly and leaving a border around the edges helps. Also, brushing the tops with egg wash before baking helps seal the pastry and keeps it crisp.

Final Thoughts

Mini Spinach Ricotta Rolls are truly one of those delightful treats that combine simplicity with deliciousness in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a snack, appetizer, or part of a party spread, they are sure to impress with their beautiful golden crust and creamy, flavorful filling. I can’t wait for you to try making these at home—they just may become your new favorite snack too!