Puff Pastry Cream Cheese Hearts Recipe
These Danish Pastries with Cream Cheese and Cherries feature flaky puff pastry filled with a sweet and creamy cream cheese mixture topped with juicy cherries. They are perfect as a delightful breakfast treat or an elegant dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 pastries
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Danish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup frozen cherries, thawed and drained
Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract thoroughly until smooth and creamy for a sweet, flavorful filling.
- Cut Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface, smooth the edges, and cut into 8 equal squares. Reserve any extra pastry for decorative elements if desired.
- Assemble Pastries: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square, then top with a few cherries for a burst of tartness and color.
- Shape Pastries: Fold the corners of each pastry square towards the center to form a pinwheel or diamond shape, lightly pressing to seal. Optionally, add decorative puff pastry leaves on top using reserved dough.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the beaten egg over the edges and surfaces of the pastries to achieve a golden and glossy finish during baking.
- Bake: Transfer pastries to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until puffed, golden brown, and cooked through.
- Cool and Garnish: Let the pastries cool for 5 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar for a delicate sweetness and elegant presentation. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use thawed but cold puff pastry for easier handling and better puffing.
- If fresh cherries are available, they can be substituted for frozen cherries if pitted.
- For extra shine, you can brush the entire pastry, not just the edges, with egg wash.
- Decorative leaves made from reserved puff pastry add a beautiful touch but are optional.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
