Description
Delight in these deliciously sweet Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites, featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a smooth mixture of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla, crowned with fresh raspberries and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a light dessert or party treat, these bite-sized pastries combine creamy, fruity, and buttery flavors in every mouthful.
Ingredients
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24 fresh raspberries
Pastry and Topping
- 1 package refrigerated puff pastry sheets (2 sheets), thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the bites.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring even sweetness and flavor.
- Cut Puff Pastry: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets on a clean surface. Cut each sheet evenly into 12 squares for a total of 24 squares.
- Add Filling: Place about one teaspoon of the prepared cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square, being careful not to overfill.
- Top with Raspberry: Place one fresh raspberry directly on top of the cream cheese filling on each square, adding freshness and a burst of flavor.
- Seal Pastries: Gently fold the corners of each pastry square over the filling and pinch the edges together to seal the bites, preventing the filling from leaking during baking.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and evenly space the sealed bites on the sheet to allow room for puffing.
- Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Lightly brush the tops of the bites with the beaten egg wash to promote browning. Sprinkle with granulated sugar if desired to add a subtle crunch and extra sweetness.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the puff pastry turns golden brown and beautifully puffed.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bites to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving to ensure the filling sets and they can be handled easily.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and smooth texture.
- Do not overfill the pastry squares to prevent leaking during baking.
- For an extra touch, chill the assembled bites for 10 minutes before baking to help them hold shape.
- These bites are best served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat gently before serving.