Are you craving a delicious dessert that's both impressive and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! These puff pastry cherry recipes are the perfect solution for a quick weeknight treat or a delightful addition to your weekend brunch. Forget complicated baking – these recipes are easy enough for beginners, yet elegant enough to wow your guests. Get ready to experience the flaky, buttery goodness of puff pastry combined with the sweet, juicy burst of fresh cherries. It's a match made in dessert heaven!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous baking session.
- 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: Coarse sugar for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, gently toss the cherries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. The cornstarch helps thicken the cherry filling as it bakes, preventing a soggy pastry.
Assemble the Pastry:
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Unfold the thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Gently roll it out slightly to even the thickness.
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Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving about a half-inch border.
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Fold the pastry in half, pressing the edges firmly to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to ensure a good seal.
Bake to Perfection:
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Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg wash. This creates a beautiful golden-brown sheen. For extra sweetness and texture, sprinkle with coarse sugar.
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Cut several slits on top of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking. This prevents the pastry from puffing up too much and potentially bursting.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on it – ovens can vary.
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Let cool slightly on the baking sheet before slicing and serving.
Delicious Variations:
- Almond Cherry Puff Pastry: Add 1/4 cup slivered almonds to the cherry filling for added crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Cherry Puff Pastry: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the baked pastry for an extra decadent treat.
- Spiced Cherry Puff Pastry: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom into the cherry filling for a warm, comforting twist.
Tips for Success:
- Thaw completely: Ensure your puff pastry is completely thawed before using it to achieve the best results.
- Don't overfill: Too much filling can lead to a soggy pastry. Stick to the recommended amount.
- Chill for best results: For an even flakier pastry, chill the assembled pastry for 15-20 minutes before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion size. It’s best to use a nutrition calculator for a precise analysis. However, expect a moderate amount of calories, fat, and sugar, typical of a dessert. This recipe is best enjoyed in moderation.
This simple yet elegant puff pastry cherry recipe is perfect for any occasion. Its ease of preparation and delicious taste make it a surefire crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the sweet reward of your homemade baking!