Are you craving a delightful dessert or appetizer that's both impressive and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This puff pastry recipe with cream cheese filling is your answer. It's the perfect blend of flaky, buttery pastry and a creamy, tangy filling, making it ideal for any occasion – from a casual weeknight dinner to a sophisticated gathering. This recipe is a fantastic example of how easy homemade cooking can be, resulting in delicious dishes that will wow your friends and family. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
For the Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) frozen puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until the mixture is light and fluffy. Set aside.
Assembling and Baking the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and gently roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly to an even thickness. This helps ensure even baking.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border (about ½ inch) around the edges.
- Carefully fold the puff pastry in half, pressing down gently along the edges to seal.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into desired shapes – triangles, squares, or even small rectangles work well.
- Place the pastries onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up beautifully.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
Serve these warm or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon also adds a delightful twist. This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt it to your preferences:
- Add fruit: Incorporate fresh berries, sliced peaches, or apple pieces into the cream cheese filling for a fruity twist.
- Chocolate indulgence: Mix in melted chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the cream cheese filling for a decadent chocolate treat.
- Nutty delight: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the filling for added texture and flavor.
- Savory option: Instead of sweet filling, try a savory version with herbs, cheese, and a touch of garlic for an appetizer.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Protein: 4-5g
These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
This puff pastry recipe with cream cheese filling is a delicious and easy addition to your cooking repertoire. It's perfect for satisfying a sweet craving or impressing your guests. Enjoy the simple joy of homemade baking and the delightful flavors of this easy recipe. Experiment with different fillings and variations to create your own unique masterpiece!