If you’re in search of a delightful treat that combines the rich creaminess of cheese with the tartness of cherries, look no further than this Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie. This recipe is a breeze to prepare, thanks to the convenience of puff pastry and a few other simple ingredients. Imagine slicing through perfectly golden, flaky layers to reveal a luscious filling bursting with sweet cream cheese and juicy cherries. The combination is elegantly balanced, providing just the right amount of sweetness to satisfy your dessert cravings or impress at a brunch gathering. Not only does this pie come together in under an hour, but it also showcases a rustic charm that elevates any meal. Whether you’re catering to guests at a weekend brunch or indulging in a solo dessert moment, this Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie is your ticket to pastry perfection!
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie
- Quick & Easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for both busy weekdays and relaxed weekends.
- Versatile: Serve it as a sweet closing to a meal or as a standout dish at brunch.
- Deliciously Balanced: The creamy cheese and tart cherry blend offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
- Impressive Presentation: Its rustic look and golden finish make it a visually appealing treat.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen space adequately. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will save time and ensure that the pastry doesn’t stick. Have your puff pastry thawed and ready to unroll; this can be done overnight in the fridge, or a few hours on the counter. Gather your ingredients to ensure a smooth and efficient preparation process. A couple of tools that you might find particularly helpful include a rolling pin to slightly smooth out the pastry, a hand or stand mixer for the cream cheese mixture, and a pastry brush for the egg wash to achieve a glossy, golden finish.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or jarred)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (if using fresh cherries)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This crucial step ensures an even bake and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unroll your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and score a 1-inch border around the edges with a knife or scoring tool. This will help the pastry to puff up and create a defined edge during baking.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until smooth and creamy, ensuring that all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly within the scored border of the pastry. If you’re using fresh cherries, toss them with cornstarch to absorb any excess juice during baking. Arrange the cherries atop the cream cheese layer, spreading them out to cover all areas.
Step 5: Fold and Finishing Touches
Carefully fold and crimp the edges of the pastry to create a rustic edge that will hold the filling in place. Brush the entire pastry including the folded edges with the beaten egg to enhance browning and shine.
Step 6: Bake
Place the assembled pie in your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the pastry reaches a golden brown color and the filling is set. Keep an eye on the pie towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-browning.
Variations
- Protein: Enhance with crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for extra crunch and protein.
- Vegetables: For a savory twist, consider adding thinly sliced pears or apples alongside the cherries.
- Spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can bring a warm undertone to your pastry pie.
Cooking Notes
- Pastry Handling: Work quickly with the puff pastry to keep it cold; this ensures it bakes up light and flaky.
- Cherry Variety: Experiment with different types of cherries, such as Bing or Rainier, to adjust sweetness and tartness levels.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack break.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Egg Wash: Don’t skip the egg wash; it’s key for achieving that perfect golden-brown finish.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 220mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the pie.
What if I don’t have puff pastry?
You can use phyllo dough as a substitute, layering multiple sheets with butter for a similar result.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can this be made ahead of time?
It’s best baked fresh, but you can prepare the cheese filling a day in advance and assemble just before baking.
Conclusion
With its simplicity and flavor-packed components, the Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie is a must-try for any aspiring baker looking to impress or simply enjoy a deliciously sweet treat. Its quick preparation and elegant presentation make it perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to special celebrations. We encourage you to try this recipe, adapt it to your taste preferences, and share your delightful creations with friends and family. Don’t forget to leave a comment sharing your experience or any creative twists you’ve tried — we’d love to hear your thoughts!
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Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A delightful treat that combines rich creaminess of cheese with tartness of cherries.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or jarred)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (if using fresh cherries)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll your puff pastry and score a 1-inch border around the edges.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly within the pastry’s scored border, then top with cherries.
- Fold and crimp the edges to secure the filling and brush with beaten egg.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and filling is set.
Notes
Reheat leftovers in the oven for the best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Protein: 5 g