Description
These Deliciously Sweet Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites are a perfect bite-sized dessert combining flaky puff pastry with a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling and a burst of fresh raspberry flavor. Easy to make and beautifully golden, they are ideal for parties, snacks, or anytime you crave a delightful sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/3 cup raspberry jam or preserves
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Optional
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy filling base.
- Prepare Puff Pastry Squares: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into 12 equal squares. Arrange each square on the lined baking sheet, giving them space to puff up while baking.
- Assemble the Bites: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each puff pastry square. Then add 1/2 teaspoon of raspberry jam on top of the cream cheese, followed by placing a fresh raspberry on the very top to add freshness and vibrant flavor.
- Fold Puff Pastry Corners: Gently fold the corners of each square slightly inward, pinching them carefully to secure the filling inside without sealing it completely, allowing the pastry to puff beautifully around the filling.
- Apply Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and water together to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the tops and edges of each pastry square to give them a golden and glossy finish once baked.
- Bake the Pastries: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the bites for 15–18 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are fully puffed, indicating they are cooked through and crisp.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. If desired, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant, sweet finish before serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh raspberries with other berries like blueberries or blackberries for a different fruit twist.
- If using frozen puff pastry, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and ease of handling.
- These bites are best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
