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
Scale
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.
