(Almost) Made from Scratch: 7 Sweet Treats to Make with Frozen Puff Pastry

With the holidays fast approaching, busy days seem to ramp up to even-busier-days, am I right? And yet we want more than ever to make from-scratch, extra-special meals and goodies. As a serious home baker I particularly pride myself on the from-scratch part. But there are times when I rely on - and am ever grateful for - ingredients that I call "shortcuts". Pre-melted packets of unsweetened chocolate. Frozen pie crusts. And packaged puff pastry. Puff pastry is probably my very favorite "shortcut" ingredient. It is infinitely adaptable, and can go sweet as easily as it can go savory. With puff pastry at the ready you'll never be at a loss for quick, easy and often do-ahead breakfast, appetizer and dessert ideas that everyone will love. There are two kinds of packaged puff pastry. And while I highly recommend the kind that uses real butter, it is often difficult (and expensive) to source. I've worked with both, and can honestly say that the more commonly available variety is just fine. Here are some of my favorite puff pastry treats and desserts, and a tip for what to do with the "scraps" that you are going to love! - By Sheri Silver

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