If you’re looking to impress guests with a bakery-worthy treat that combines elegance with comfort, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins. These buttery, flaky pastries are a savory take on the viral cruffin trend—a delicious hybrid of a croissant and a muffin. Loaded with fresh herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, these cruffins boast golden, crispy layers on the outside and a soft, tender interior that’s bursting with flavor.
While cruffins are often made sweet and filled with jam or cream, this savory version is the perfect addition to a brunch table, holiday spread, or alongside your favorite bowl of soup. In this article, we’ll explore what cruffins are, how to make a savory version, and share tips for presentation, nutrition, and storage.
What Is a Cruffin?
The cruffin was first introduced in 2013 by an Australian bakery and quickly gained popularity for its unique shape and indulgent layers. Traditionally, it’s made by laminating croissant dough, rolling it into a spiral, and baking it in a muffin tin to give it height and structure.
This savory version swaps sugar and jam for minced garlic, shredded Parmesan, and finely chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or rosemary. The result? A bakery-style pastry with gourmet flair that’s surprisingly achievable in a home kitchen.
Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, chives, or a mix)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for topping)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Extra melted butter for brushing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 cruffins
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 6-cup muffin tin or line with parchment strips for easier removal.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, Parmesan, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Roll and Fill: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a 10×12 inch rectangle. Evenly spread the garlic-herb mixture over the surface.
- Slice and Roll: Cut the dough into 3 long strips (along the shorter side). Roll each strip tightly into a coil. Then, slice each roll lengthwise to expose the layers.
- Twist and Shape: With the cut side facing out, twist each half and roll into a spiral. Place each spiral into a muffin cup, cut side up.
- Bake: Brush the tops with extra melted butter and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before removing from the pan. Serve warm for maximum flakiness and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Cruffin)
Based on six servings, each cruffin contains approximately:
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 340mg
These values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Presentation Tips
Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins are showstoppers on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate their presentation:
- Rustic Board: Serve warm cruffins on a wooden cutting board lined with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme.
- Mini Bouquet: Arrange them upright in a linen-lined basket as an edible centerpiece.
- Dipping Side: Offer a bowl of marinara, whipped goat cheese, or herbed olive oil for dipping.
Perfect for brunches, potlucks, or intimate dinner parties, these cruffins offer both style and substance.
Flavor Variations
Looking to experiment? Try these creative variations:
- Cheddar & Jalapeño: Swap Parmesan for shredded cheddar and add finely diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and basil to the filling for a Mediterranean flair.
- Everything Bagel: Replace herbs with everything bagel seasoning for a crunchy, savory boost.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Cruffins are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: To revive the crispness, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the layers.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins bring together the sophistication of French pastry with the bold, comforting flavors of garlic and cheese. With their flaky layers, golden tops, and savory aroma, these pastries are guaranteed to be the star of any meal.
What makes this recipe so appealing is that it’s approachable—using store-bought puff pastry cuts down prep time, while still achieving bakery-level results. Whether you’re entertaining guests, making brunch at home, or simply treating yourself, these cruffins are a savory indulgence that delivers on every level.
So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let your kitchen fill with the irresistible scent of garlic and herbs. Once you try these Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.