Description
This Creamy Cherry Strudel combines flaky puff pastry with a luscious cream cheese filling and sweet cherry pie filling. Baked to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar, this European-inspired dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of creamy and fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup canned cherry pie filling
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
For Garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a rectangular shape, ensuring an even thickness for consistent baking.
- Assemble Filling: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly down the center third of the pastry rectangle. Spoon the cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Cut and Fold Pastry Strips: Cut slits on both sides of the pastry, perpendicular to the filling, to create strips. Fold these strips over the filling in a crisscross braid pattern, sealing the edges gently.
- Apply Egg Wash: Mix the beaten egg with milk and brush this egg wash over the entire pastry surface. This step helps achieve a beautiful golden color during baking.
- Bake: Place the strudel on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the strudel to cool slightly on a rack. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Use homemade cherry compote instead of canned cherry pie filling for a fresher, more natural flavor.
- Add a dash of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture to enhance the overall aroma and taste.
