Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries

Introduction

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries bring the perfect mix of elegance and comfort right to your kitchen! With their flaky, buttery puff pastry, lusciously sweetened cream cheese, and juicy fresh strawberries, these pastries offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that make every bite irresistible. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast indulgence, a charming brunch centerpiece, or a delectable dessert, they’re sure to impress both family and guests alike.

I still remember the first time I made these for a weekend brunch. The warm aroma of golden pastry filled the house, and the first bite—crisp, creamy, and bursting with sweet strawberry flavor—was pure bliss. What makes these pastries so special is their versatility. You can keep them classic with a dusting of powdered sugar, add a drizzle of honey or glaze for extra sweetness, or even sprinkle some toasted almonds for a bit of crunch.

And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! With store-bought puff pastry, a handful of ingredients, and just a little bit of prep time, you can create bakery-quality pastries in your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking to elevate your morning routine or add a touch of sweetness to a gathering, these Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

• Breakfast or brunch
• Afternoon tea
• Holiday gatherings
• Quick and easy desserts
• Pastry lovers

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries

Here’s why Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries will become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Flaky and Buttery Pastry: Using store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe easy while still delivering a crispy, golden texture.
• Sweet and Tangy Filling: The combination of cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla creates a luscious, slightly tangy filling that pairs perfectly with fresh strawberries.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and baking time, these pastries come together quickly for a beautiful, bakery-style treat.
• Customizable: You can swap strawberries for other fruits, add different toppings, or drizzle with icing for a unique twist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a special gathering, these pastries are a crowd-pleaser.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
• Servings: 8 pastries
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 16g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra brightness)
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
• 2 tablespoons strawberry jam (optional, for extra sweetness)

Ingredient Highlights

• Puff Pastry: Using store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe effortless while still giving bakery-quality results.
• Cream Cheese: The creamy filling provides a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet strawberries.
• Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the pastries.
• Vanilla & Lemon Zest: These enhance the flavor of the cream cheese filling, making it extra delicious.
• Egg Wash: Helps the pastries achieve a golden, glossy finish when baked.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pastry and Filling:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) until smooth and creamy.
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet slightly to smooth out any creases. Cut it into 8 equal squares.
4. Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash.

Assemble the Pastries:

5. Fill the Pastries: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Spread it slightly, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Add the Strawberries: Arrange a few slices of fresh strawberries on top of the cream cheese filling. If using, drizzle a little strawberry jam for added sweetness.
7. Shape the Pastries: Fold the edges slightly inward or twist the corners together for a decorative touch. Alternatively, leave them open for a Danish-style pastry.
8. Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush the edges of each pastry with the egg wash to help them turn golden brown in the oven.

Bake the Pastries:

9. Bake: Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
10. Cool: Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries can be served in various ways:

• With Coffee or Tea: Pair these pastries with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.
• As a Brunch Treat: Serve them alongside other breakfast items like fruit, yogurt, or scrambled eggs.
• Drizzled with Glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a little milk or lemon juice).
• With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Turn these into a decadent dessert by adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• For Special Occasions: These pastries make a beautiful addition to brunch parties, baby showers, or holiday gatherings.

Additional Tips for Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries

Here are some tips to ensure your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries turn out perfectly:

• Use Cold Puff Pastry: Keep the pastry cold before baking for the best flaky texture.
• Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the pastries to leak while baking.
• Chill Before Baking: If your pastries feel too soft after assembling, place them in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.
• Experiment with Different Fruits: Try blueberries, raspberries, peaches, or even a mix of fruits for different flavors.
• Store Properly: These pastries are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to crisp them up again.
• Use a Fork to Seal Edges: If you want a neater pastry, use a fork to crimp the edges for a sealed look.

Recipe Variations for Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries

Try these 10 delicious variations of Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries:

1. Blueberry Cream Cheese Pastries: Swap strawberries for fresh blueberries.
2. Raspberry Almond Pastries: Use raspberries and add a sprinkle of sliced almonds.
3. Peach & Honey Cream Cheese Pastries: Replace strawberries with thinly sliced peaches and drizzle with honey.
4. Chocolate Strawberry Pastries: Add a few chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture for a chocolatey twist.
5. Lemon Cream Cheese Pastries: Mix a little lemon curd into the cream cheese filling for extra citrus flavor.
6. Mixed Berry Pastries: Combine strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a mixed berry medley.
7. Nutella & Strawberry Pastries: Spread a thin layer of Nutella before adding the cream cheese and strawberries.
8. Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Pastries: Use thinly sliced apples and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
9. Mango & Coconut Cream Cheese Pastries: Add diced mango and a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
10. Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Pastries: Mix pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into the cream cheese for a fall-inspired version.

Freezing and Storage for Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries

• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked pastries by assembling them and placing them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm. Transfer to a zip-top bag and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Special Equipment for Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries

• Baking Sheet – For even baking.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat – Prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
• Rolling Pin – Helps smooth out the puff pastry.
• Pastry Brush – For applying egg wash.
• Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter – For cutting the pastry.
• Mixing Bowls – For preparing the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions for Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
   Fresh strawberries are best, but you can use frozen ones if thawed and patted dry.
2. Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble them and store in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking.
3. Can I use store-bought cream cheese frosting?
   You can, but homemade cream cheese filling gives a better texture and flavor.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries are a delightful way to enjoy the perfect balance of flaky pastry, rich cream cheese filling, and juicy fresh strawberries. With their buttery layers and luscious center, these elegant treats are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Whether you’re serving them for brunch, a special occasion, or simply indulging in a homemade dessert, these pastries are sure to impress. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy—pair them with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

I’d love to see how your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pastries turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!