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If you’re craving a dessert that feels both indulgent and effortlessly elegant, you absolutely have to try this Creamy Cherry Puff Pastry Strudel Recipe. It has this delightful blend of flaky, buttery puff pastry wrapped around a luscious, dreamy cream cheese filling paired perfectly with juicy, tangy cherries. Each bite offers a harmonious mix of textures and flavors that will instantly become your new go-to treat for any occasion, whether a casual afternoon tea or a festive gathering with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe keeps things simple while delivering maximum flavor and gorgeous texture. Each component plays a critical role—from the crisp, buttery puff pastry to the rich creamy filling, and the bright, slightly tart cherries that bring it all to life.
- Puff pastry sheets: The flaky foundation creating that golden, crispy exterior that’s hard to resist.
- Fresh or frozen cherries (pitted): Bursting with juicy flavor, cherries bring a beautiful pop of color and fruity freshness.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds luxuriously smooth creaminess, balancing the tartness of the fruit.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the creamy filling gently and is also perfect for a pretty dusting on top.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of warmth and depth that enriches the cream cheese mixture.
- Heavy cream: Whips the filling into a luscious texture that melts in your mouth.
- Cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken the cherry filling for a nice, jammy consistency.
- Lemon juice: Injects subtle brightness to balance the sweetness of the cherries.
- Butter (melted): Brushed on top for a golden, glossy finish with buttery richness.
How to Make Creamy Cherry Puff Pastry Strudel Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple preparation ensures your strudel won’t stick and bakes evenly to that perfect golden hue.
Step 2: Create the Cherry Filling
Using a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, lemon juice, and cornstarch if you choose to use it. Cook gently for 5 to 7 minutes until those cherries soften and release their luscious juice. The mixture should thicken slightly, turning into a juicy, spoonable filling. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Filling
While the cherries cool, mix the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream in a bowl. Whisk everything until smooth, silky, and slightly fluffy. This creamy filling is the quintessential part that gives your strudel that dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Gently unroll your puff pastry sheets and cut them into rectangles or squares based on the size you prefer for your strudel. This step gives you room to assemble lovely individual pastries, perfect for sharing or indulging solo.
Step 5: Assemble the Strudel
Spread a thin, even layer of the creamy filling over each pastry piece, then spoon the cooled cherry filling on top. Fold or roll the puff pastry edges over the filling, creating a neat parcel or a classic strudel shape—whatever feels right for your kitchen mood.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush the outside of each strudel with melted butter; this little touch helps them brown beautifully and adds an irresistible buttery flavor. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until your strudel looks irresistibly puffed and golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Finish
Allow your Creamy Cherry Puff Pastry Strudel Recipe to cool just a bit before dusting with powdered sugar. This finishing touch creates a lovely visual pop and adds a hint of sweetness that complements the filling perfectly. Then slice and serve warm—trust me, it’s even better fresh from the oven.
How to Serve Creamy Cherry Puff Pastry Strudel Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a dusting of powdered sugar is classic and beautiful, but feel free to get creative. A few fresh mint leaves or a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate can elevate your strudel’s presentation without overpowering the delicate flavors inside.
Side Dishes
This strudel pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to contrast the warm pastry and fruity filling. For a fresh touch, serve alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, balancing sweetness with brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of slicing into traditional portions, consider serving mini strudels as elegant finger food for parties. You can also arrange slices on a platter with fresh cherries and edible flowers for a picture-perfect dessert spread everyone will remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any strudel left over, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The pastry will maintain its crispness best when not refrigerated, but keep in mind that the creamy filling may soften the crust over time.
Freezing
You can freeze baked strudel by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it in the oven to refresh that crispy texture and warm filling.
Reheating
Reheat your strudel in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back the flakiness and warm the filling. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crispness of the puff pastry, which is the hallmark of this Creamy Cherry Puff Pastry Strudel Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly and are a great option when fresh cherries are out of season. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a soggy filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and coconut cream. The texture will be slightly different but still deliciously creamy and satisfying.
Can I add other fruits to this strudel?
Definitely! Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches can make wonderful additions or substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if the fruit is particularly juicy to avoid excess liquid.
How long does the strudel keep its freshness?
For best taste and texture, enjoy within two days when stored at room temperature. The puff pastry is at its crispiest right after baking and gently softens after that but remains tasty.
Can I prepare the strudel filling ahead of time?
You can make both the cherry filling and creamy mixture a day in advance. Keep them refrigerated separately and assemble right before baking to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cherry Puff Pastry Strudel Recipe is one of those magical desserts that bring together simple ingredients to make something truly special. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, the combination of flaky pastry, smooth creaminess, and vibrant cherries always steals the show. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite to add to your dessert repertoire!
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Creamy Cherry Puff Pastry Strudel Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Description
Delight in the luscious Creamy Cherry Strudel, featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a smooth cream cheese mixture and juicy cherry filling. This elegant dessert combines the tartness of cherries with a sweet, creamy center, all baked to golden perfection for a satisfying treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 package Puff pastry sheets (usually 2 sheets)
Cherry Filling
- 2 cups Fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Creamy Filling
- 1/2 cup Cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup Powdered sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream
For Baking
- 1 tbsp Butter (melted, for brushing)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the strudels.
- Prepare cherry filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the pitted cherries, lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes until the cherries release their juice and the mixture slightly thickens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
- Make the creamy filling: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the pastry: Unroll the puff pastry sheets and cut them into rectangles or squares depending on your preferred size for the strudels.
- Assemble the strudel: Spread a thin, even layer of the creamy filling over each pastry piece, then spoon the cooled cherry mixture on top. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to form parcels or roll them up like traditional strudels, sealing the edges properly.
- Bake the strudel: Brush each assembled strudel with melted butter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
- Cool and serve: Let the strudels cool slightly on a wire rack before dusting them with powdered sugar. Slice and serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Use frozen cherries if fresh are not in season, just thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
- For a thicker cherry filling, do not skip the cornstarch; it helps to set the filling.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to achieve a smooth, lump-free creamy filling.
- Puff pastry can be replaced with phyllo dough for a crispier texture if desired.
- This dessert is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated lightly before serving.
