Savory mushroom & gruyère puff pastry braid

Here’s a Savory Mushroom & Gruyère Puff Pastry Braid recipe — a golden, flaky pastry filled with caramelized mushrooms, garlic, herbs, and melted Gruyère cheese. It’s elegant, easy, and perfect for brunch, dinner, or as an appetizer. 🍄🥐🧀

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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 fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (optional — adds umami)

• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat oven:

   • Heat to 400°F (200°C).

   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the filling:

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

   • Add onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until soft.

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

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

   • Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Prepare the pastry:

   • On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry slightly to remove creases.

   • Place it on the prepared baking sheet.

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

   • Sprinkle shredded Gruyère evenly over the top.

4. Create the braid:

   • Using a sharp knife, cut diagonal slits (about 1 inch apart) on both sides of the filling.

   • Fold strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a braid pattern.

   • Tuck the ends under to seal.

5. Egg wash and bake:

   • Brush the top with beaten egg.

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

6. Cool and serve:

   • Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

   • Serve warm as a main dish or appetizer.

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Tips & Variations:

• 🧀 Cheese swaps: Use Swiss, Fontina, or Emmental instead of Gruyère.

• 🌿 Add greens: Stir in a handful of sautéed spinach or kale for extra color and nutrition.

• 🍷 Flavor boost: Deglaze the mushrooms with a splash of white wine or sherry for a deeper flavor.

• 🍄 Make-ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking.

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Would you like me to give you a spinach & mushroom version or a holiday-style braid with caramelized onions and brie next?