How Long Does Filo Pastry Take to Cook

You can swap in puff pastry for phyllo dough in a pinch, and the other way around, but don't expect the same results. Here's the best way to use each of these flaky, versatile doughs.

It's easy to love any recipe calling for phyllo or puff pastry. These doughs have the most delightful, flaky texture, and lend a rich flavor to baked goods, desserts and appetizers. But can you use them interchangeably? Will an apple turnover recipe that calls for puff pastry turn out as tasty when made with phyllo dough?

While the two doughs are pretty similar, they do yield different results. Making Greek baklava with puff pastry instead of phyllo would work in a pinch, but the dessert wouldn't have the same flavor and texture.

Here's our advice: When it comes to phyllo dough vs. puff pastry, your best move is to become familiar with each dough and how it's intended to be used before you begin experimenting!

Everything to Know About Phyllo Dough vs. Puff Pastry

What Is Phyllo Dough?

Phyllo (also spelled filo) dough is paper-thin pastry dough that's traditionally used to make sweet or savory Greek and Middle Eastern dishes. The word phyllo comes from the Greek word for leaf, and it refers to the thinness of the sheet. As the sheets bake, they become shatteringly crispy and create extremely flaky bites.

Homemade phyllo is tricky to make, but it's possible with patience and practice. The dough is made with flour, water, vinegar and a little oil. It doesn't contain as much fat as puff pastry so it doesn't need to be laminated (more on that in a moment), but phyllo must be rolled into extremely thin sheets to obtain the right texture. Luckily, commercially prepared phyllo dough is a convenient alternative that results in a product that is as good as homemade. It's best to thaw frozen phyllo dough overnight in the refrigerator, and you'll want to wait until it's thawed before separating the sheets (otherwise, they can crack).

Traditional phyllo dough recipes include appetizers like spanakopita and samosas or sweets like baklava and galaktoboureko, a custard dessert. Phyllo dough can be used as a substitute for strudel dough or for other pastry wrappers, such as turnovers.

Desserts to Make with Phyllo Dough

Honey Cinnamon Rollups

This cinnamony treat reminds me of baklava, but with only a few easy ingredients, it's a fraction of the work. My Aunt Adele shared the recipe with me, and I think of her whenever I make it. —Sue Falk, Warren, Michigan

Grilled Fruit Phyllo Tart

This tart was a hit at my friend's baby shower. It reminds me of a fruit salad that my mother used to make with cream cheese and whipped topping. Everyone loved the flaky crust, and the bright colors make it a pretty addition to any spread. —Laura McAllister, Morganton, North Carolina

Double Nut Baklava

It may take some time to make this rich, buttery treat, but it's well worth the effort! The blend of coconut, pecans and macadamia nuts is irresistible. —Kari Kelley, Plains, Montana

Baklava Tartlets

Want a quick treat that's delicious and easy to make? These tartlets will do the trick. You can serve them right away, but they're even better after chilling for about an hour in the refrigerator. —Ashley Eagon, Kettering, Ohio

Chocolate-Dipped Phyllo Sticks

Looking for a little something special to share with friends or family? Try these crunchy treats. They're wonderful with coffee or a glass of milk. —Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin

Orange-Almond Choclava

A twist on classic baklava, this recipe adds semisweet chocolate to the nut filling and drizzles even more on top. Christmas gift-giving has never been yummier! —Nella Parker, Hersey, MI

Lemon Curd Tartlets

This has been in my party recipe collection for over 30 years and never fails to satisfy my guests. I can always rely on these fancy treats to please even the fussiest in the crowdt. —Jessica Feist, Pewaukee, Wisconsin

Easy Apple Strudel

My family always loves it when I make this wonderful dessert. Old-fashioned strudel was too fattening and time-consuming, but this revised classic is just as good. It's best served warm from the oven. —Joanie Fuson, Indianapolis, Indiana

Chocolate-Drizzled Baklava

This baklava makes a special gift and is also fun to put on a party planner. — Jesse Zipursky, San Ramon, California

Baklava Cheesecake

With sugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs, my unique baklava cheesecake makes a grand display for office parties and other special events. —Aryanna Gamble, New Orleans, Louisiana

Chipotle-Orange Baklava

Citrus, cinnamon and smoky chipotle peppers make my version of this flaky, sweet pastry so unique. It's really rich, so a little goes a long way. —Christine Neary, Portland, Oregon

Easy Lemon Berry Tartlets

These fruity, flaky tartlets filled with raspberries and topped with lemon-tinged cream cheese are a sweet ending to any weeknight meal. They are elegant yet come together quickly and easily. —Elizabeth Dehart, West Jordan, Utah

No-Bake Chocolate-Pecan Tartlets

At the last minute, I frantically came up with this treat for a holiday tea. The tartlets were quickly gobbled up. Now, I make them for our annual Teacher Taster's Choice and special family gatherings. —Joy Johnson, Culbertson, Montana

Sugar Plum Phyllo Kringle

Thanks to store-bought phyllo dough, this pastry is easier to make than it looks. Serve it not only for breakfast, but also for dessert with a scoop of ice cream. —Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona

Chocolate Butterscotch Tartlets

Tartlets are like cake pops—tiny and tasty, and a tempting way to experiment with different fillings. But this prizewinning combo is too good to toy with. —Jennifer Larison, Tucson, Arizona

Buttery Rhubarb Baklava

I like to take treats to my co-workers at the nursery/gift shop where I work. When rhubarb season arrives, I make this rich, sweet baklava so I can share the fruits of my garden. —Sue Bolsinger, Anchorage, Alaska

Key Lime Mousse Cups

Light, lovely and laced with a splash of tart key lime juice, these fancy little phyllo cups are so refreshing served as an after-dinner dessert treat...and they take just minutes to whip up! —Suzanne Pauley, Renton, Washington

Lemony Walnut-Raisin Galette

This flaky, buttery pastry dessert has a filling of fruit, walnuts, coconut and cinnamon. There's a lot to love! For even more appeal, dollop sweetened whipped cream on top of each serving. —Ellen Kozak, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Honey Nut & Cream Cheese Baklava

I love serving impressive desserts that look like you spent hours in the kitchen when, in reality, they're really easy to make. This is one of those recipes. —Cheryl Lundquist, Wake Forest, North Carolina

Baklava Rounds

In need of a sweet treat that I could prepare ahead and freeze, I streamlined and modified a recipe that I found on a website. The rounds are like mini baklavas were a big hit at the elegant tea I catered for a Christmas gathering several years ago.—Meta West, Abilene, Kansas

Blue Cheese-Apple Strudels

It wouldn't be a family gathering at our house without this favorite strudel. The sweetness from the apples and the saltiness from the cheese is heavenly. Substitute Stilton cheese if you don't have Roquefort handy. —Patricia Nieh, Portola Vally, California

Sweet Potato Tartlets

My family can't resist sweet potatoes when they're mashed, placed in crunchy phyllo shells and topped with marshmallows. The bite-size tarts are fun to eat, too! —Marla Clark, Moriarty, New Mexico

Berries & Swedish Cream Tartlets

A friend of mine brought a similar tartlet to a party we were both attending. I knew I just had to have the recipe. I modified it and now my family loves them. Since they use mixed fresh berries, they are great anytime of the year.—Maria Gruetzmacher, Stillwater, Minnesota

White Chocolate Brie Cups

Try these unique little tarts as an appetizer before a special meal, or save them for a surprisingly different dinner finale. They're sweet, creamy and crunchy—and very addictive! —Angela Vitale, Delaware, Ohio

What Is Puff Pastry?

Puff pastry dough is a French dough that's very rich. It's much easier to make compared to phyllo dough, but it does require a process called laminating. Slabs of chilled butter are placed between the layers of pastry dough. The dough is then rolled out, folded into thirds and allowed to rest in the refrigerator. The process is repeated six to eight times, producing a pastry filled with layers of dough and butter. When it bakes, the water contained in the butter creates steam, helping the dough expand and crisp up.

Commercially prepared puff pastry dough can be found in the freezer section and can be used in any recipe that calls for homemade puff pastry dough. For the best flavor, look for a brand that uses all butter instead of shortening. Thaw the puff pastry in the refrigerator overnight before using it.

The most famous use of puff pastry dough is the croissant, where the flaky layers are visible after a single bite. It's also used to make beef Wellington, tarts and hand pies. Since puff pastry is thicker and richer than phyllo dough, using phyllo in puff pastry recipes won't have the same flavor. It works in a pinch, though, if you're looking for a crispy exterior for filled appetizers or desserts.

Our Best Puff Pastry Recipes

Puff Pastry Chicken Potpie

When my wife is craving comfort food, I whip up this chicken pot pie with puff pastry. It's easy to make, sticks to your ribs and delivers soul-satisfying flavor. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado

Tomato and Corn Cheesy Pastry Bites

Local veggies and herbs have a magical knack for inspiring me to cook. After my CSA box arrived, I used the fresh ingredients to create this adorable appetizer. —Kristen Heigl, Staten Island, New York

Strawberry Shortcake Puffs

When my wonderful friend Kelly brought me a pint of strawberries, I didn't want to just eat them straight (tempting as it was). I decided to make strawberry shortcake with my own pretty, elegant spin. These light and airy puff pastry stacks let the fruit shine. —Jenny Dubinsky, Inwood, West Virginia

Fontina Asparagus Tart

This lemony tart is loaded with fontina cheese and fresh asparagus. It's a snap to make but looks really impressive. Be advised…your guests will be vying for the last tasty slice. —Heidi Meek, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Ham and Broccoli Puffs

These starters look complex, but they're easy to make and still very elegant. —Lynda McCulloch, San Antonio, Texas

Brie Cherry Pastry Cups

Golden brown and flaky, these bite-sized puff pastries with creamy Brie and sweet cherry preserves could easily double as a scrumptious dessert. —Marilyn McSween, Mentor, Ohio

Brunch Puff with Sausage Gravy

When company stays overnight, I make this puff with sausage gravy as a hearty breakfast treat. It's meaty, cheesy and delightful with a fresh fruit salad. —Danielle Cochran, Grayling, Michigan

Puff Pastry Danishes

Even though they're simple to make, these jam-filled pastries are right at home in a holiday brunch spread. They were my dad's favorite, so the recipe will always be close to my heart. —Chellie Helmke, Jackson Center, Ohio

Provolone Beef Pastry Pockets

My children always make sure they're home when they find out we're having these pockets for dinner. They're a smart way to use leftover pot roast. —Karen Burkett, Reseda, California

Butternut, Kale and Cashew Squares

Butternut squash and kale are two of my favorite fall vegetables. Combined with cashews and feta in a puff pastry, it makes me think this could be a fall version of spanakopita! This could be served for brunch or lunch, or as a dinner entree. You also can make the pieces smaller and serve it as an appetizer. —Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, Illinois

Onion Brie Appetizers

Guests will think you spent hours preparing these cute appetizers, but they're really easy to assemble, using purchased puff pastry. And the tasty combination of Brie, caramelized onions and caraway is terrific. -Carole Resnick, Cleveland, Ohio

Mediterranean Tomato Bites

My friend Mary served these lovely appetizers at a summer gathering several years ago, and I adapted it a bit to my taste. It's a great August recipe when tomatoes and herbs are at their freshest! —Susan Wilson, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Southern Brunch Pastry Puff

My family just about jumps out of bed when the smell of eggs, sausage and buttery pastry hits their noses. This recipe is morning magic. —Misty M. Leddick, Chester, South Carolina

Caramel Apple Strudel

My father, who was born and raised in Vienna, Austria, would tell us stories about how his mother covered all the kitchen counters with dough whenever she made apple strudel. This recipe is a modern, delicious way to carry on part of my family's heritage. —Sarah Haengel, Bowie, Maryland

Chickaritos

This recipe is one I created, substituting chicken for beef and omitting the frying, when our son grew fond of a fast-food restaurant's "junior burritos." They've been a big hit with our whole family ever since! —Nancy Coates, Oro Valley, Arizona

Chocolate Banana Bundles

Banana and chocolate is such an irresistible combo that I make this quick dessert often. You can also top these tasty bundles with the butter and brown sugar mixture left over from coating the bananas, or sprinkle on a dash of sea salt. —Thomas Faglon, Somerset, New Jersey

Honeyed Pears in Puff Pastry

A honey of a salute to late-summer pear season, this cozy dessert looks both elegant and decadent. Wrapped in puff pastry, the pears resemble little beehives. —Heather Baird, Knoxville, Tennessee

Pancetta, Pear & Pecan Puffs

I was recently at a wedding reception where the menu was all small bites. Here's my rendition of the pear pastries they served. They're the perfect combo of savory and sweet. —Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, Illinois

Raspberry Chocolate Puffs

This chocolaty, flaky dessert is one of my favorite show-off recipes because it makes a spectacular presentation. The best part? It's actually surprisingly easy and quick to make. —Anneliese Deising, Plymouth, Michigan

Cheesy Chicken Wafflewiches

I've had lots of fun experimenting with my new waffle maker. I decided to use shredded meat, cheese and vegetables for a savory twist. Make sure the griddle is hot before adding the sandwiches. —Marietta Slater, Justin, Texas

Swedish Puff Coffee Cake

Some of my most treasured childhood memories involve waking to the heavenly scent of this almond-glazed coffee cake baking in the oven. — Mary Shenk, DeKalb, Illinois

Pesto Twists

Use pesto made straight from your garden if you make these in the summer or purchase it prepared from the grocery store to fill these easy appetizers. —Jaye Beeler, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Palmiers

It takes just two ingredients to make these impressive but easy-to-do French pastries, which are often called palm leaves. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Shiitake Scrambled Eggs in Puff Pastry

Easter brunch will be an event to remember with this elegant egg pastry as the main dish. Everyone will love the bold flavors and light texture. —Jamie Brown-Miller, Napa, California

Smoked Salmon Bites with Shallot Sauce

Tangy mayonnaise-Dijon sauce adds zip to flaky pastry and layers of crisp arugula, thinly sliced smoked salmon and nutty-flavored Asiago cheese. —Jamie Brown-Miller, Napa, California

Oktoberfest Strudels

My husband, being born and raised in Wisconsin, loves bratwurst sausages. So I tweaked this strudel recipe to include some of his favorite filling ingredients and it was an instant hit. Serve with extra mustard for dipping. —Cleo Gonske, Redding, California

Potato Ham Omelet Pie

As a holiday kickoff, my family gets together in early December for a hearty brunch before going out to cut our Christmas trees. This flavorful breakfast pie, assembled in layers, was a big hit at last year's gathering. —Shelly Rynearson, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse Cups

Three of my favorite foods—chocolate, hazelnuts and puff pastry—come together for an impressive dessert. Dress them up with a drizzle of melted chocolate and sprinkling of chopped nuts. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California

Mini Party Burgers

We love finger foods in the South. For parties, I make mini burgers in advance and then wrap them in pastry, bake them and serve them with assorted sauces. —Monica Flatford, Knoxville, Tennessee

Individual Turkey Potpies

Savory, creamy potpies are a great way to make leftovers new again. These are not your grandma's pot pies...they are made with fresh herbs, a silky homemade Dijon sauce and a puff pastry top.—Victoria Bond, Tempe, Arizona

Raspberry & Cream Cheese Pastries

I wanted to surprise my grown daughter with a different dessert for her birthday. The puff pasty tarts I dressed up have a chocolaty center with a splash of amaretto.—Jennifer Zuk, Burnaby, British Columbia

Individual Beef Wellingtons

A savory mushroom-wine sauce is draped over golden pastry. This elegant entree is perfect to present to guests on Christmas. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Aussie Sausage Rolls

I was born and raised in Australia, but moved to the U.S. when I got married. When I long for some Australian recipes, I bake up a batch of this sausage roll recipe and share them with neighbors or co-workers. —Melissa Landon, Port Charlotte, Florida

Puffed Apple Pastries

For a little extra indulgence, serve these oven-fresh pastries with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. Cherry pie filling can be substituted for the apple. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Caramelized Fennel Tarts

Fennel is a favorite of mine, no matter how it's cooked, but I think it is really amazing sauteed until rich and golden, then baked on delicious puff pastry. I've served these as a side dish and as an appetizer.—Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida

Greek Breadsticks

Get ready for rave reviews with these crisp breadsticks twisted with Greek-inspired goodness. Best served fresh from the oven. —Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida (Galaktoboureko is another Greek recipe that uses phyllo dough—it's a custard-based dessert that goes great with coffee.)

Reuben Rounds

Fans of the classic Reuben sandwich will go crazy for baked pastry spirals of corned beef, Swiss and sauerkraut. They're so easy to make, and bottled Thousand Island dressing makes the perfect dipping sauce. —Cheryl Snavely, Hagerstown, Maryland

Quiche Pastry Cups

My grandmother used to make egg cup surprises for family brunches on special occasions. The added fillings were always a surprise; she never seemed to use the same combination of ingredients twice. As children, we had a guessing game as to what we'd find in the tender crust, which added an aspect of family fun to our meal. —Denalee Standart, Rancho Mureta, California

Sweet Almond Twists

These delicate almond pastries make lovely light-as-air accompaniments for coffee, tea or cocoa. Your guests will never guess the recipe calls for packaged frozen dough. When I give them as a fresh-baked gift, I tuck in a note saying that they're best served warmed—and right away! —Gloria Devendittis, Waterford, Connecticut

Mushroom Palmiers

I found this recipe while working at a small-town museum in West Texas. It was the appetizer for a fundraiser a long, long time ago, and it's still a huge hit at parties. Frozen puff pastry helps make it easy and impressive. The palmiers also freeze well. —Judy Lock, Panhandle, Texas

Mini Sausage Pies

The simple ingredients and family-friendly flavor of these little sausage cups make them a go-to dinner favorite. And everyone gets their own pies—which makes them even better! —Kerry Dingwall, Ponte Vedra, Florida

Peanut Butter Cup Napoleons

Top layers of puff pastry and peanut butter ice cream with a warm, sweet drizzle the whole family will love! It's a terrific last-minute dessert, or you can freeze the cooled pastry and scooped ice cream separately in an airtight container the day before you serve it. —Jeanne Holt, Mendota Heights, Minnesota

Cranberry Bacon Galette

Sweet, smoky, tangy, fresh…the flavors in this distinctive appetizer are sure to perk up taste buds for dinner. I sprinkle the warm squares with basil and add a dollop or two of a mascarpone cheese topping. —Merry Graham, Newhall, California

How Long Does Filo Pastry Take to Cook

Source: https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/puff-pastry-vs-phyllo-dough/

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