If you’ve ever craved that warm, cheesy delight from Starbucks, our Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes recipe is exactly what you need. These savory bites combine fluffy potatoes with sharp cheddar and fresh chives, creating a perfect balance of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Starbucks Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes, we need fresh, flavorful ingredients that come together harmoniously. Below is a detailed breakdown of everything required for each component of this savory delight.
For the Potato Filling
Our potato filling must be creamy and fluffy to balance the sharpness of cheddar and the freshness of chives.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from russet potatoes, peeled and boiled)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon milk (warmed for smooth texture)
For the Cheddar and Chive Mixture
This blend provides the signature richness and vibrant flavor.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (finely shredded)
- 3 tablespoons fresh chives (finely chopped)
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for subtle smoky note)
For the Dough
A flaky, golden pastry shell will encase our filling beautifully.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Sifted |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | Cold, cut into cubes |
| Cold water | ¼ cup | Adjust as needed |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances dough flavor |
| Baking powder | ¼ teaspoon | For subtle lift |
Additional Ingredients
These add texture and appearance for that authentic Starbucks finish.
- 1 egg (for egg wash, beaten)
- Coarse sea salt (optional, sprinkle on top for crunch)
Each ingredient plays an essential role in delivering the Starbucks Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes experience at home. Let’s gather everything to start crafting our savory treat.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Starbucks Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures precision in preparation and consistency in baking, helping us achieve that signature flaky crust and melty cheddar center every time. Here is the list of our must-have tools:
- Mixing Bowls – For combining the mashed potatoes, cheese, and chives smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements guarantee the ideal balance of flavors.
- Pastry Blender or Fork – To cut the butter into the flour for making the flaky pastry dough.
- Rolling Pin – Essential for rolling out the dough evenly to the perfect thickness.
- Baking Sheet – A flat surface to bake our potato bakes until golden brown.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat – Prevents sticking and promotes even baking.
- Sharp Knife or Pastry Cutter – For shaping and trimming the dough precisely.
- Cheese Grater – To shred sharp cheddar cheese finely for even melt.
- Food Processor (Optional) – Speeds up dough making and shredding if preferred.
- Brush – For applying egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden finish.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine mashed potatoes, cheddar, and chives |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Pastry Blender or Fork | Cut butter into flour for pastry dough |
| Rolling Pin | Roll dough evenly |
| Baking Sheet | Bake potato bakes |
| Parchment Paper or Mat | Prevent sticking and ensure even baking |
| Sharp Knife / Pastry Cutter | Shape and trim dough |
| Cheese Grater | Shred cheddar cheese finely |
| Food Processor (Optional) | Expedite dough and shred cheese |
| Brush | Apply egg wash for golden crust |
By gathering this essential equipment ahead of time, we’ll streamline our Starbucks Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes preparation process and ensure each bite is as satisfying and delicious as the original.
Prep Work
Before diving into assembling our Starbucks Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes, we need to prepare the key components carefully. This ensures smooth cooking and flavors that truly shine through every bite.
Preparing the Potato Filling
First, we must create the perfect base with fluffy, creamy potatoes. Follow these steps for the ideal filling texture:
- Peel and cut 1 pound of Yukon Gold potatoes into even chunks.
- Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain thoroughly and return to pot over low heat for 1-2 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Mash potatoes until smooth but still slightly textured for bite.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, ½ cup whole milk, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature to prevent dough sogginess.
This careful preparation yields a creamy, flavorful filling that holds well inside our bakes without becoming watery.
Shredding the Cheese and Chopping the Chives
The sharpness of cheddar and freshness of chives bring unforgettable flavor contrast. We want them just right:
| Ingredient | Preparation Detail | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp Cheddar | Finely shredded | 1 cup (about 100g) |
| Fresh Chives | Thinly sliced | 2 tablespoons |
- Use a fine grater for the sharp cheddar to melt evenly within the filling.
- Chop fresh chives finely for even flavor distribution and vibrant color specks throughout.
Combine shredded cheese and chives with the cooled mashed potatoes just before assembling to keep their textures intact.
Making the Dough
Our dough must be flaky yet tender to encapsulate the potato-cheddar filling perfectly. We recommend this approach:
- Combine 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon salt in a large bowl.
- Cut in 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add 3-4 tablespoons ice-cold water while mixing until dough just comes together.
- Avoid overworking the dough to keep it tender.
- Form dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes before rolling.
Chilling ensures the butter stays cold, producing crisp, flaky layers once baked—key to replicating that signature Starbucks Potato Cheddar & Chive Bake texture.
Directions
Follow these precise steps to assemble, bake, and serve our Starbucks Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes, ensuring each bite delivers that signature flavor and texture you crave.
Assembling the Bakes
- Prepare your work surface by lightly dusting it with flour to prevent sticking.
- Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick using a rolling pin. Keep the dough cold to maintain flakiness.
- Cut dough into circles approximately 4 inches in diameter using a cookie cutter or glass.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of the prepared potato cheddar and chive filling into the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape.
- Press the edges together firmly, then crimp with a fork to seal all sides well. Proper sealing prevents leakage during baking.
- Repeat until all filling and dough are used.
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for consistent baking.
- Place the assembled bakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet leaving 1 inch space between each.
- Brush the tops lightly with beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
- Check doneness by looking for a firm crust and bubbling filling edges.
| Baking Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 375°F (190°C) |
| Baking Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Dough Thickness | 1/8 inch |
| Dough Circle Size | 4 inches diameter |
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the bakes to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set the filling.
- Transfer carefully to a wire rack to cool slightly more but serve warm.
- Enjoy immediately for perfect melty cheese and tender potato texture.
- Serve with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce to enhance this savory treat.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Starbucks Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes anytime, here are essential make-ahead tips to streamline preparation without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Prepare the Filling in Advance
We recommend making the potato, cheddar, and chive filling up to 2 days ahead. Store it airtight in the refrigerator to keep flavors fresh and prevent drying.
- When ready to assemble, gently stir the filling to recombine any settled ingredients.
- If the filling firms up, warm it slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk if needed to soften.
Dough Preparation and Storage
The flaky pastry dough can be prepped and chilled up to 24 hours in advance:
| Step | Timing | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| After dough formation | Up to 24 hours | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, refrigerate |
| After rolling out | Up to 24 hours | Cover with plastic wrap, refrigerate |
- For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.
Assembling and Freezing the Bakes
We can assemble the filled bakes and freeze them before baking:
- Place assembled bakes on a parchment-lined tray, freeze uncovered until firm (1–2 hours).
- Transfer frozen bakes to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
- Bake directly from frozen. Add 5–7 minutes to the baking time at 375°F (190°C).
Reheating Baked Bakes
For best texture, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place bakes on a baking sheet and warm for 10–12 minutes until heated through and crisp.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
To keep our Starbucks Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes fresh and delicious for later enjoyment, proper storage and reheating are essential.
Storage Tips
- Cool Completely: Allow the baked bakes to cool completely at room temperature for about 20 minutes before storing.
- Refrigeration: Place cooled bakes in an airtight container or wrap individually in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap each bake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Airtight container/plastic wrap | 3 days | Keeps texture and freshness |
| Freezing | Plastic wrap + foil + freezer bag | 1 month | Prevents freezer burn |
Reheating Instructions
To maintain the signature flaky crust and creamy, cheesy filling, we recommend reheating in the oven:
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Bakes: Remove any plastic wrap if used. Place bakes on a baking sheet.
- Reheat Time:
- For refrigerated bakes, bake for 12–15 minutes.
- For frozen bakes, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then bake for 15–18 minutes.
- Check Warmth: Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Optional: For extra crispness, brush the tops lightly with melted butter before reheating.
“Avoid microwaving to preserve the flaky texture and avoid soggy bottoms. Oven reheating provides the best texture and flavor closest to freshly baked.”
With these storage and reheating tips, we ensure every bite of our Starbucks Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes tastes just as delightful as when first made.
Conclusion
Making Starbucks Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes at home is a rewarding way to enjoy a delicious, comforting treat anytime. With the right ingredients and techniques, we can recreate that perfect balance of flaky pastry and savory filling without stepping out.
By preparing ahead and following the tips for storage and reheating, these bakes become a convenient option for busy days or special gatherings. Let’s embrace this recipe as a go-to for satisfying snacks that bring warmth and flavor to our kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes?
Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes are savory pastries filled with creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chives, wrapped in flaky pastry dough. They are inspired by a popular Starbucks item, offering comforting and flavorful bites perfect for snacks or light meals.
What ingredients do I need to make these bakes?
You’ll need Yukon Gold potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, fresh chives, butter, milk, salt, pepper, flour, cold butter for the dough, ice-cold water, and an egg for brushing the tops before baking.
How do I prepare the potato filling?
Boil Yukon Gold potatoes until tender, mash them with butter and milk, then season with salt and pepper. Mix in finely shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh chives to complete the filling.
What’s the best way to make the flaky dough?
Combine flour and salt, cut in cold butter until crumbly, then add ice-cold water gradually to form a dough. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out to achieve a flaky texture.
How do I assemble and bake the bakes?
Roll out chilled dough, cut into circles, spoon the potato mixture onto each, then fold and seal. Brush the tops with beaten egg and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
Can I prepare the filling or dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling up to 2 days ahead and store it covered in the fridge. The dough can be made and chilled for up to 24 hours or frozen for longer storage.
How should I store leftover Potato Cheddar & Chive Bakes?
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
What’s the best way to reheat the bakes?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes if refrigerated, or 15–18 minutes if frozen (thawed overnight). Avoid microwaving to preserve the flaky texture.
Can I freeze the bakes before baking?
Yes, you can assemble and freeze the filled bakes before baking. Bake them directly from frozen following the same temperature and time guidelines, adjusting as needed for best results.