Name: Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Bliss: A Quick Delightful Treat
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Cream Cheese (Can substitute with low-fat or plant-based cream cheese for lighter options.); 1/4 cup Sugar (Adjust based on fruit sweetness if using alternatives.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Optional, can be omitted for a purer flavor.); 1 sheet Puff Pastry (Ensure pastry is thawed before use.); 1 cup Cranberries (Replace with blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples, adjusting sugar as needed.); 1 Each Egg (for wash) (Can omit for a vegan version.)

As I stood over my kitchen counter, I could almost hear the crunch of golden pastry baked to perfection, enticing me to take just one more bite. These Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms are my go-to treat when I want to combine elegance with comfort. The sweet-tart cranberries paired with creamy filling wrapped in flaky puff pastry not only lifts the spirits but also makes for an impressive yet quick recipe to share at gatherings. With just 40 minutes needed for prep and baking, they are a lifesaver for busy days when you still want something special. Whether you’re looking for a delightful dessert or a stylish snack, these blossoms will warm your heart and impress your guests. Are you ready to dive into this charming creation?

Why Are Puff Pastry Blossoms a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavors: The combination of creamy cream cheese and tart cranberries creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

Quick Preparation: Whip these up in just 40 minutes, making them a perfect choice for last-minute entertaining or a cozy night in.

Beautiful Presentation: These blossoms are not only delicious but also visually stunning. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch!

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap cranberries for your favorite fruits! Try blueberries, raspberries, or even chopped apples for delightful variations.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for family gatherings, tea parties, or cozy evenings at home, these pastries will wow your guests and leave them asking for the recipe! If you have a love for delightful snacks, check out my Potato Cheese Puffs or satisfy your sweet tooth with Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake.

Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Ingredients

For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream Cheese – Provides creaminess and richness to the filling. Can substitute with low-fat or plant-based cream cheese for lighter options.
• Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese filling. Adjust based on fruit sweetness if using alternatives.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor to the cream cheese mixture. Optional, can be omitted for a purer flavor.

For the Pastry
• Puff Pastry – Serves as the base that wraps the filling. Ensure pastry is thawed before use; can use homemade or store-bought.
• Cranberries – Offers tartness that balances the creamy filling. Replace with blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples, adjusting sugar as needed.
• Egg (for wash) – Provides color and sheen when baked. Can omit for a vegan version.

Dive into this delightful recipe and indulge in the sweetness of these Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms will bake evenly and achieve that golden-brown finish. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace for the next steps.

Step 2: Prepare Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer or a spatula, blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps. This creamy filling will be the heart of your blossom, so take a moment to ensure it’s well-mixed and flavorful.

Step 3: Roll Out Puff Pastry
Take your thawed puff pastry and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out gently to about 1/8 inch thickness, making sure it remains even throughout. Once rolled, cut the pastry into 3×3 inch squares, which will serve as the delicate wrappers for your cream cheese filling and cranberries.

Step 4: Assemble Blossoms
Now it’s time to bring your Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms to life! Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square, followed by a few cranberries on top. Carefully fold the corners of the squares towards the center to seal in the filling, creating charming little packets.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
To give your blossoms a beautiful, golden sheen, beat an egg in a small bowl and brush it gently over the tops of your assembled pastries. This egg wash will enhance the appearance and create a delightful crunch on the outside when baked, making your Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms even more irresistible.

Step 6: Bake
Arrange the assembled pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for puffing. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake to achieve the perfect level of crispness.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the blossom pastries from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This brief cooling period allows the filling to set slightly. Before serving, dust them with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, and enjoy these delightful treats warm!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms

Fridge: Store leftover blossoms in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to crisp them up before serving again.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked blossoms on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: For best results, reheat baked blossoms in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their flaky texture.

Assemble Ahead: You can prepare and freeze the Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms to have homemade treats ready whenever you desire!

What to Serve with Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms

Indulging in these delightful blossoms opens up a world of harmonious pairings that will elevate your dining experience.

Classic Tea: A warm cup of Earl Grey enhances the sweetness, making it a perfect companion for your blossoms.
Sweet Red Wine: The fruity notes of a light red wine, like Pinot Noir, marry beautifully with the tart cranberries, adding elegance to your treat.
Mixed Green Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this salad introduces a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy filling and adds a colorful touch.
Creamy Tomato Soup: The warm, comforting flavors of a rich tomato soup perfectly contrast the pastry’s flakiness, creating a delightful meal.
Cheese Board: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that complement the sweet and tangy taste of the blossoms, making for a savory-sweet experience that guests will love.
Fresh Fruit Platter: Bright, seasonal fruits such as strawberries or citrus add freshness and a splash of color to your table, inviting another layer of flavor.
Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle over your blossoms can enhance sweetness. Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing sparkling drink cleanses the palate between bites, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.

These complementary options not only make your meal complete but also impress your guests with thoughtful choices that create a memorable dining experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract) and store it in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance, ensuring it stays fresh and creamy. Additionally, you can assemble the blossoms and freeze them for up to 1 month. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, remove the blossoms from the freezer and bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown. This makes it a breeze to whip up a delicious treat anytime you desire!

Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Variations

Feel free to get creative with these blossoms and explore flavors that dance on your palate!

Fruit Swap: Replace cranberries with fresh blueberries or raspberries for a sweeter twist. The fruity filling will burst with juicy goodness!
Plant-Based: Use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option that tastes just as luscious. Who knew vegan treats could be so satisfying?
Cinnamon Bliss: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for a warm, cozy flavor. It’s like a hug in pastry form!
Nut Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, along with the cranberries for a delightful crunch in each bite. It’s all about texture!
Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle with a homemade vanilla or maple syrup after baking. Sweet, delectable, and oh-so-addictive!
Savory Twist: Try swapping out the cranberries for sautéed mushrooms and garlic, creating a unique savory version perfect for appetizers. A fluffy surprise!
Zesty Kick: Mix in a bit of orange or lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a bright, citrusy burst that brings everything to life. Fresh and zingy!

When you’re looking for a little more indulgence, consider pairing these blossoms with a warm cup of tea or coffee, or dive into the world of other delicious recipes like my Egg Cheese Toasts – perfect for a cozy brunch!

Expert Tips for Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff

Balanced Filling: Avoid overfilling the pastry squares to prevent spillage. A spoonful of filling is usually just right for perfect sealing.

Thaw Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is completely thawed before rolling it out. This will make it easier to handle and ensure it puffs nicely during baking.

Keep an Eye on Baking: Bake until golden brown, which generally takes 20-25 minutes, but ovens can vary—check periodically to avoid overbaking.

Reheating Tips: For the best texture, reheat leftover blossoms in an oven to restore their crispiness, rather than in a microwave, which can make them soggy.

Make-ahead Advantage: These Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms can be prepared ahead of time and frozen. Bake directly from the freezer when you need a quick treat!

Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe cranberries for my recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting cranberries for your Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms, look for berries that are firm and bright red. They should be shiny and free of dark spots or blemishes. Avoid any that are soft or wrinkled, as these may be past their prime.

How should I store leftover puff pastry blossoms?
Very! To keep your leftover Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their flaky texture.

Can I freeze the pastry blossoms before baking them?
Absolutely! To freeze your unbaked Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms, arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they’re firm (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the blossoms to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. You can bake them directly from frozen, simply add an extra 3-5 minutes to the baking time.

What do I do if my pastry doesn’t puff up?
Very! If your puff pastry doesn’t puff up as expected during baking, here are some common troubleshooting tips:

Ensure your puff pastry is properly thawed and cold before rolling it out; warm pastry can lose its ability to rise.
Make sure your oven is preheated to the right temperature (375°F/190°C) to achieve that quick burst of steam needed for rising.
Avoid overfilling, as this can weigh down the pastry; a generous spoonful of cream cheese filling is usually perfect.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Absolutely! To make your Cranberry & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Blossoms vegan, simply substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based option and skip the egg wash. A bit of almond milk or a vegan egg wash (a mixture of plant milk and a dash of cornstarch) can help achieve a nice golden color on the pastry.

What can I do if I’m allergic to certain ingredients?
Very! For those with dietary restrictions, feel free to customize the recipe. Use low-fat or dairy-free cream cheese alternatives if lactose-intolerant, and if you have nut allergies, be sure to select nut-free pastry options. You can also adjust your sweetness levels based on your preferences, making this delightful treat adaptable for everyone!