Seeing small black dots on puff pastry can be alarming, but in most situations they’re completely harmless. Before throwing the dough away, pause and inspect it carefully. Many dark specks are simply the result of ingredients reacting to air, cold storage, or heat during baking.

Start by checking for mold.

Real mold usually looks fuzzy, raised, or damp. It often appears in shades of blue, green, or white and may give off a sour or musty odor. If you notice those signs, it’s best to discard the pastry immediately. Food safety should always come first.

However, if the dots are flat, dry, and evenly distributed—more like tiny freckles—they are unlikely to be mold. These harmless specks don’t spread, smear, or feel soft to the touch.

There are several common explanations for these dark spots.

One possibility is natural bran particles, especially if the flour used is less refined or stone-ground. Another cause can be caramelized milk solids from butter. During baking, butter can brown slightly, creating darker spots that may even enhance flavor. Oxidation is another factor—if the dough has been stored for a long time or thawed and refrozen, slight discoloration can occur. In some cases, residue from baking trays can transfer onto the pastry, which can easily be avoided by using clean pans or lining them with parchment paper.

To ensure safety, always evaluate the pastry’s smell, texture, and color.

Store dough tightly sealed in the freezer and avoid repeated thawing. If you’re uncertain and the pastry shows clear signs of spoilage, discard it.

But if it looks normal, smells fresh, and feels firm, you can proceed with confidence and enjoy your baking without worry.