Savory mushroom & gruyère puff pastry braid

Here’s an elegant and flavorful Savory Mushroom & Gruyère Puff Pastry Braid — buttery, cheesy, and perfect as an appetizer or main dish. 🍄🥐🧀

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Savory Mushroom & Gruyère Puff Pastry Braid

Servings: 4–6

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

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Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or mixed)

• 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)

• 1 tsp salt, to taste

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)

• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat oven:

   • Preheat to 400°F (200°C).

   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the mushroom filling:

   • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

   • Add onions and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes).

   • Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release moisture and it evaporates (8–10 minutes).

   • Stir in thyme, salt, pepper, and soy/Worcestershire sauce if using.

   • Let the filling cool slightly.

3. Assemble the braid:

   • Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth creases.

   • Place it on the prepared baking sheet.

   • Spoon the mushroom filling down the center third of the pastry.

   • Sprinkle shredded Gruyère over the top of the filling.

4. Cut and fold:

   • Using a sharp knife, cut 1-inch strips along both sides of the pastry (diagonal slits toward the filling).

   • Fold the strips alternately over the filling, creating a braid-like pattern.

   • Tuck ends under to seal.

5. Brush and bake:

   • Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden shine.

   • Bake 25–30 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.

6. Serve:

   • Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

   • Serve warm, with a green salad or soup on the side.

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Tips & Variations:

• 🧀 Cheese options: Swap Gruyère for Swiss, fontina, or provolone.

• 🌿 Add greens: Mix in a handful of sautéed spinach or kale with the mushrooms.

• 🧄 Garlic lovers: Add roasted garlic to the filling for a sweeter flavor.

• 🍷 Fancy touch: Deglaze mushrooms with 2 tbsp white wine or sherry for richness.

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Would you like me to give you a make-ahead or freezer-friendly version of this braid? It’s perfect for holiday prep or entertaining.