Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Strawberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Braid Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 66 reviews

This Strawberry Puff Pastry Braid is a delightful and visually stunning dessert featuring layers of flaky puff pastry filled with a rich cream cheese mixture and fresh sliced strawberries. Topped with a glossy sugar glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day.

  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Puff Pastry

  • 2 sheets store-bought puff pastry or homemade puff pastry dough

Cream Cheese Filling

  • 8 oz. (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Assembly

  • 2 cups sliced strawberries
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • ¼ cup coarse sugar

Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 to 4 tbsp milk

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg yolk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined into a smooth filling.
  2. Prepare Puff Pastry Sheets: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets to even thickness if needed. Place one sheet on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread the cream cheese filling down the center third of the sheet, leaving edges free.
  3. Add Strawberries: Evenly layer the sliced strawberries on top of the cream cheese filling in the center of the pastry. Be careful not to overfill to ensure the pastry can be braided properly.
  4. Braid the Pastry: Cut slits about 1-inch wide along both long sides of the puff pastry, parallel to the filling. Alternately fold the strips of pastry over the filling, creating a braid pattern, pressing the ends to seal.
  5. Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Beat the remaining egg and brush it gently over the top of the braid to promote browning. Sprinkle the coarse sugar evenly on top for added texture and sweetness.
  6. Bake the Braid: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the puff pastry braid on the middle rack for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
  7. Prepare the Glaze: While the braid bakes, mix the powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk, adding more milk as needed to reach a smooth, drizzling consistency.
  8. Glaze and Serve: Once the braid is done and slightly cooled, drizzle the sugar glaze over the top. Allow to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For best results, keep puff pastry cold until ready to use to make handling easier.
  • You can substitute fresh raspberries or blueberries for the strawberries if desired.
  • If you don’t have coarse sugar, use granulated sugar for sprinkling on top.
  • Glaze can be flavored with a teaspoon of lemon zest or vanilla extract for extra aroma.
  • Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness or store in an airtight container at room temperature.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian