If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the tart brightness of rhubarb with the smooth richness of cream cheese, this Rhubarb Cream Cheese Puff Pastries Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine flaky, golden puff pastry wrapped around a creamy, slightly tangy filling with bursts of sweetened rhubarb—a combination that’s both elegant enough for company and comforting enough for an everyday indulgence. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe brings together simple ingredients into a show-stopping pastry that’s impossible not to love.

Rhubarb Cream Cheese Puff Pastries Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this Rhubarb Cream Cheese Puff Pastries Recipe. From the flakiest puff pastry to the fresh zing of rhubarb, every component shines through.

Puff pastry sheets: Provides that irresistible flaky and buttery base that puffs up beautifully in the oven.
Fresh rhubarb: Offers tartness and a lovely pink hue; you can also use frozen rhubarb if fresh is unavailable.
Sugar: Sweetens the rhubarb and balances its natural tartness perfectly.
Cream cheese: Softened to create a rich, velvety filling that complements the rhubarb’s tang.
Powdered sugar: Adds smooth sweetness without graininess, perfect for the cream cheese mix.
Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic note to lift the filling’s flavor.
Lemon juice: Brings additional brightness and enhances the fruit’s natural zing.
Sour cream (optional): Adds an extra layer of creaminess and subtle tang to the filling.
Egg and water (for egg wash): Give the pastries a gorgeous golden gloss and help the edges seal properly.

How to Make Rhubarb Cream Cheese Puff Pastries Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rhubarb

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss the diced rhubarb with sugar to coax out its juices while softening its tartness. Giving it about 10 minutes helps the flavors meld nicely and prevents the filling from being overly sour when baked.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While the rhubarb is resting, whip together the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, and sour cream if you’re using it. You want a smooth, creamy mix that will contrast beautifully with the rhubarb’s texture and tang.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out your thawed puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into four squares or rectangles—depending on your size preference—to create about eight pastries total. This gives you perfectly sized portions that bake evenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Pastries

Spoon a generous dollop of the cream cheese filling into the center of each pastry piece. Take care not to overfill, as this might cause the pastries to leak while baking. Next, add a spoonful of the sugared rhubarb right on top to complete the assembly.

Step 5: Fold and Seal the Pastries

Fold the pastry squares over to form either triangles or smaller rectangles. Press the edges together firmly to seal in the filling. For a rustic twist, you can leave the pastries open-faced, creating a charming tart instead.

Step 6: Apply the Egg Wash

Mix the beaten egg with a bit of water and brush it lightly over each pastry. This step isn’t mandatory but trust me—it gives the pastries that irresistible glossy, golden finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 7: Bake the Pastries

Arrange the pastries on a lined baking sheet and bake for about 18-22 minutes until they become puffed, golden, and irresistibly fragrant. Keep an eye on them near the end to avoid any burning, as ovens can vary.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, give the pastries a few minutes to cool just slightly. They’re wonderful served warm so the cream cheese is still lovely and soft. For an extra touch of elegance, sift a little powdered sugar over before serving. This final step adds a gentle sweetness and an inviting look.

How to Serve Rhubarb Cream Cheese Puff Pastries Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling powdered sugar on the finished pastries adds a delicate, sweet touch that also makes them look picture-perfect. You can also add fresh mint leaves or a light drizzle of honey for added sweetness and a burst of color.

Side Dishes

This Rhubarb Cream Cheese Puff Pastries Recipe pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon treat. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a light green salad to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the pastries on a decorative platter with some fresh rhubarb stalks or edible flowers for a charming presentation. You can even serve the pastries over a smear of fruit compote or vanilla yogurt for a modern twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which might be tough!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They might lose some crispness, but reheating will help revive their lovely texture.

Freezing

These pastries freeze beautifully if you want to make them in advance. Freeze them unbaked on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw slightly and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes as needed.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or thawed pastries in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. This helps the puff pastry crisp back up while preserving the creamy filling and fruity topping perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen rhubarb in this Rhubarb Cream Cheese Puff Pastries Recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it fully and drain any excess moisture before using to avoid soggy pastry. The flavor is just as vibrant when using frozen rhubarb.

Is sour cream necessary for the cream cheese filling?

Not at all. Sour cream is optional but adds extra creaminess and a subtle tang. If you don’t have it on hand, the filling will still be delicious without it.

What can I substitute for puff pastry?

While puff pastry gives you that iconic flaky texture, you could try using phyllo dough for a lighter, crispier alternative or even crescent roll dough if in a pinch, but the texture and rise will be different.

How sweet are these pastries? Can I adjust the sugar?

The recipe balances tart rhubarb with sweetened cream cheese and sugar, but feel free to adjust the sugar in the rhubarb or filling to suit your taste—more sugar will yield a sweeter pastry, less will highlight the rhubarb’s natural tang.

Can I make these pastries ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pastries and freeze them before baking. When you’re ready, bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes them perfect for prepping before guests arrive.

Final Thoughts

This Rhubarb Cream Cheese Puff Pastries Recipe is a scrumptious way to showcase the unique flavor of rhubarb wrapped in golden, flaky pastry and paired with a creamy, luscious filling. It’s a fantastic bake to keep in your recipe repertoire for when you want to impress without fuss. Give it a try for your next brunch or tea time—you’ll find it’s hard to stop at just one!