Heavenly Strawberry Puff Pastry Braid With Cream Cheese Recipe

Sweet memories of summer bloom in this strawberry puff pastry braid with cream cheese that promises delectable moments.

Layers of buttery pastry cradle fresh, juicy strawberries and silky cream cheese filling.

Delicate strands of golden dough weave around vibrant red fruit, creating a stunning visual feast.

Our simple yet elegant recipe invites you to craft a dessert that looks professionally prepared.

Pastry chefs and home bakers alike will adore how easily this stunning treat comes together.

Minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques mean you can confidently create a show-stopping dessert in under an hour.

Fresh strawberries and creamy cheese transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience you’ll want to share.

Why Strawberry Puff Pastry Braid Is a Showstopper

• Craft with Ease: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for beginners or baking enthusiasts wanting a stunning dessert.
• Impress Guests Instantly: The stunning braided design creates a professional-looking pastry that appears much more complicated than its simple preparation.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps transform basic pantry items into a delectable treat everyone will love, ideal for last-minute gatherings or unexpected company.
• Versatile Dessert Delight: Adaptable for various occasions like brunch, afternoon tea, potlucks, or casual family dessert, this pastry can be customized with different fruits or fillings to suit any preference.

Ingredients to Create the Ultimate Strawberry Cream Cheese Braid

• Puff Pastry: A delicate, buttery dough that provides a light and flaky foundation for the dessert.

• Cream Cheese: A smooth and creamy base that adds richness and tangy flavor to the filling.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture and balances the tartness of strawberries.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm and aromatic essence.
• Salt: Helps to balance and intensify the sweetness of the other ingredients.

• Strawberries: Fresh, sweet berries that provide a vibrant and juicy element to the pastry.
• Powdered Sugar: A delicate dusting that adds a decorative and sweet finish to the braid.
• Lemon Zest: Bright citrus shavings that provide a fresh and zesty accent.

• Egg, Milk: A mixture that creates a golden, shiny surface when brushed on the pastry before baking.

How to Braid and Bake a Perfect Puff Pastry Treat

Step 1: Prepare The Pastry

Gently thaw the puff pastry sheet according to package directions. Ensure the pastry remains cold but flexible enough to work with easily.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the mixture becomes silky smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Set Up Your Workspace

Sprinkle a light dusting of flour on your work surface. Carefully unfold the pastry sheet and roll it gently to smooth out any creases.

Step 4: Mark The Filling Zone

Position the pastry vertically and create clear mental markers for the center third where you’ll place the filling.

Step 5: Spread The Cream Cheese Base

Evenly distribute the cream cheese mixture down the center third of the pastry. Leave a small border at the top and bottom edges to prevent overflow.

Step 6: Add Strawberry Layer

Artfully arrange sliced strawberries in a neat row directly on top of the cream cheese mixture.

Step 7: Create Pastry Strips

Using a sharp knife or pastry cutter, make diagonal cuts along the outer thirds of the pastry. Create even strips on both sides of the filling.

Step 8: Weave The Pastry Braid

Carefully fold the pastry strips over the filling in an alternating pattern. Overlap each strip slightly to create a beautiful woven effect.

Step 9: Prepare Egg Wash

Whisk together egg and milk to create a golden glaze. Gently brush the entire surface of the pastry braid.

Step 10: Bake To Perfection

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Transfer the prepared braid to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 11: Golden Brown Finish

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry turns a beautiful golden brown and becomes wonderfully puffy.

Step 12: Cool And Rest

Remove from the oven and let the pastry rest for 10 minutes at room temperature.

Step 13: Final Touches

Dust the braid with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar and garnish with fresh lemon zest before serving.

Pro Tips for a Golden, Flaky, Fruity Masterpiece

• Chill Cream Cheese: Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure smooth, lump-free mixing without over-beating.
• Slice Strawberries Thin: Cut strawberries into uniform, thin slices to prevent excess moisture and ensure even distribution across the pastry.
• Prevent Soggy Bottom: Sprinkle a light layer of breadcrumbs or ground almonds under the filling to absorb excess liquid and maintain crisp pastry texture.
• Handle Pastry Gently: Work with cold, not warm, puff pastry and minimize handling to keep the layers flaky and prevent the butter from melting prematurely.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the cream cheese mixture and adjust sugar levels according to the sweetness of your strawberries for a perfectly balanced filling.

Sweet and Savory Takes on the Classic Strawberry Braid

• Berry Bliss Braid: Swap strawberries with a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a vibrant, multi-berry experience that bursts with summer flavors.
• Tropical Paradise Pastry: Replace strawberries with diced mango and add a sprinkle of shredded coconut to the cream cheese mixture for a vacation-inspired treat.
• Chocolate Lover's Dream: Mix melted dark chocolate into the cream cheese filling and top with sliced bananas for a rich, decadent version of the original recipe.
• Nutty Caramel Creation: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cream cheese filling and sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds before braiding for a crunchy, sweet alternative.

What Pairs Well with Strawberry Puff Pastry Braid

• Pair With Sweet Dessert Wine: Select a chilled moscato or riesling that complements the strawberry's bright sweetness and balances the rich cream cheese, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
• Enhance With Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the warm pastry braid, letting the cold, smooth texture contrast beautifully with the flaky, warm pastry.
• Match With Fresh Mint Tea: Brew a light, aromatic mint tea that cleanses the palate and provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, sweet strawberry cream cheese filling.
• Complement With Toasted Almond Garnish: Sprinkle lightly toasted, chopped almonds over the pastry to add a subtle crunch and nutty depth that elevates the dessert's overall texture and taste.

How to Store That Leftover Puff Pastry Braid the Right Way

• Store the strawberry puff pastry braid in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover loosely with plastic wrap to prevent moisture buildup and maintain the pastry's crisp texture.
• Wrap the completely cooled pastry braid tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Cut the braid into individual portions, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for quick, easy grab-and-go snacks that stay fresh for 2-3 days.
• Keep the pastry at room temperature for up to 6 hours if serving the same day.

Strawberry Puff Pastry Braid FAQs You Shouldn’t Skip

• How difficult is this recipe for beginners?

This recipe is beginner-friendly with easy step-by-step instructions. Even those with limited baking experience can successfully create this beautiful strawberry pastry braid by carefully following the detailed steps.

• What's the key to getting a perfect braid pattern?

The secret is making even, diagonal cuts on both sides of the pastry and carefully folding the strips over the filling in an alternating pattern. Take your time and overlap each strip slightly to create a neat woven effect.

• Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor. Frozen strawberries can be too watery and may make the pastry soggy. If using frozen, thaw and pat them completely dry before adding to the filling.

Strawberry Puff Pastry Braid With Cream Cheese Recipe

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4.6 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Sweet “strawberry puff pastry braid with cream cheese” delivers elegant European dessert magic in one stunning pastry. Delicate layers of buttery pastry and luscious strawberry filling promise delightful moments of pure culinary pleasure you’ll savor completely.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pastry and Filling:

• 1 sheet puff pastry
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Binding and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Topping and Garnish:

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional)

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Instructions

1. Thaw puff pastry according to package instructions, ensuring it’s pliable but still cold.
2. In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
3. Carefully unfold the pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface, rolling it slightly to even out any creases.
4. Position the pastry vertically and mark the center third of the dough for filling placement.
5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly down the center third of the pastry, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top and bottom edges.
6. Arrange sliced strawberries in a neat row directly on top of the cream cheese mixture.
7. Using a sharp knife or pastry cutter, make diagonal cuts along the outer thirds of the pastry, creating even strips on both sides.
8. Carefully fold the pastry strips over the filling in an alternating, braided pattern, overlapping each strip slightly to create a woven effect.
9. Whisk egg and milk together to create an egg wash, then gently brush the entire surface of the pastry braid.
10. Preheat oven to 400°F and transfer the prepared braid to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown and puffy.
12. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes at room temperature.
13. Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle lemon zest before serving.

Notes

• Ensure puff pastry remains chilled before rolling to maintain its flaky texture and prevent sticking during preparation.
• Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother, lump-free filling that spreads easily across the pastry.
• Slice strawberries uniformly to create an even layer and prevent uneven baking or structural instability in the braid.
• Brush egg wash sparingly to achieve a golden, glossy finish without weighing down the delicate pastry surface.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg