Easy Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Recipe with Fruit Options

Indulge in a delectable treat with this easy Cream Cheese Puff Pastry recipe. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these pastries combine flaky puff pastry with a rich cream cheese filling, customizable with your favorite fruits or jams. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and yields impressive results.

Key Takeaways

• Versatility: Customize with various fruits, berries, or jams.
• Simplicity: Uses store-bought puff pastry for convenience.
• Flavorful: Combines creamy, tangy, and sweet elements.

Ingredients

Instructions

Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the egg yolk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.

Assembling the Pastries

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet.
3. Cut the sheet into 12 equal rectangles.
4. Transfer the rectangles to the prepared baking sheet.
5. Using a sharp knife, score a smaller rectangle about 1/2 inch from the edge inside each pastry piece, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will create a border that allows the edges to puff up around the filling.
6. Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling in the center of each scored rectangle and spread it slightly within the scored border.
7. If desired, top the cream cheese filling with fresh berries, sliced fruits, or a dollop of fruit preserves.

Baking the Pastries

1. Brush the edges of the pastries with the egg wash to promote a golden-brown finish.
2. Sprinkle coarse sugar over the egg-washed edges for added sweetness and texture.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
4. Remove from the oven and allow the pastries to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before serving.

Recipe Card

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 21 minutes
• Total Time: 51 minutes
• Servings: 12 pastries
• Yield: 12 individual pastries

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Puff Pastry recipe offers a delightful combination of buttery, flaky pastry and smooth, creamy filling. The addition of your favorite fruits, berries, or jams enhances both the flavor and presentation. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress family, friends, or guests. Whether served as a snack, dessert, or special breakfast, these pastries are best enjoyed warm for a comforting and satisfying treat at any time of day.

Suggested Recipes

• Blueberry Puff Pastry
• Puff Pastry Pinwheels
• Key Lime Puff Pastry

FAQs

Q: Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?

A: Yes, homemade puff pastry can be used and will yield excellent results, though it requires more preparation time.

Q: How should I store leftover pastries?

A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the oven to refresh the crispness.

Q: Can I prepare these pastries in advance?

A: You can assemble the pastries and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake just before serving for best results.

This recipe is adapted from Pies and Tacos.