Ingredients
For the Pastry:
1 box puff pastry sheets, thawed
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
For the Blueberry Filling:
2 cups fresh blueberries
⅓ cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Icing:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
For the Blueberry Filling:
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In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh blueberries, sugar, water, and cornstarch.
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Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a simmer and the blueberries begin to break down, about 5-7 minutes.
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Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
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Remove from heat and allow the blueberry filling to cool while you prepare the other ingredients.
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
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In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
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Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract and continue to mix until well combined.
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Set aside until ready to assemble.
Assembling the Pastry Braid:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle (about 12×9 inches).
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Spread the cream cheese filling down the center of the puff pastry, leaving about 2 inches on each side.
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Spoon the blueberry filling over the cream cheese layer.
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Cut diagonal slits on both sides of the pastry to create strips (about 1-inch wide).
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Carefully fold the strips over the blueberry filling, alternating sides to form a braid. Pinch the ends together to seal.
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Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to make an egg wash. Brush the top of the braided pastry with the egg wash to give it a golden, glossy finish.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
For the Lemon Icing:
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While the pastry is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
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Once the pastry is done baking and has cooled slightly, drizzle the lemon icing over the top.
Notes
Fruit Variations: Swap blueberries for raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries, or use a combination for a mixed berry filling.
Crunchy Add-ins: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the blueberry filling for added texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry to make this treat gluten-free.
Cream Cheese Alternative: Substitute the cream cheese filling with Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Pastry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian