Pin it
These delightful fruit and cream cheese breakfast pastries transform ordinary mornings into special occasions with minimal effort. The flaky puff pastry cradles a creamy, citrus-infused filling topped with your favorite seasonal fruits for a breakfast treat that looks as impressive as it tastes.
I first created these pastries when hosting an impromptu weekend brunch for unexpected guests. The combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet fruit on buttery pastry had everyone asking for the recipe, and they've become my signature entertaining dish ever since.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: At room temperature ensures a smooth, lump-free filling that spreads beautifully
- Sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese without overwhelming sweetness
- Lemon juice and zest: Add brightness that cuts through the richness
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the filling
- Frozen puff pastry sheets: Save incredible time while delivering bakery-quality results
- Fresh fruit of your choice: Allows for seasonal flexibility
- Egg wash: Creates that gorgeous golden shine
- Sanding sugar: Adds a delightful crunch and sparkle to the finished pastries
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless. Having everything ready before you start ensures a smooth process.
- Make The Cream Cheese Filling:
- Beat cream cheese with sugar, lemon juice, zest and vanilla until luxuriously creamy. The room temperature cream cheese is crucial here. If your cream cheese is cold, you will end up with lumps that never fully incorporate. The finished mixture should be smooth enough to spread easily but firm enough to hold its shape.
- Prepare The Pastry:
- Work with thawed but still cold puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut four circles from each sheet using a 4-inch cookie cutter. The light dusting of flour prevents sticking while the cold pastry ensures those beautiful layers will puff properly in the oven.
- Assemble The Pastries:
- Score a border around each pastry circle and prick the centers with a fork. This technique creates a frame for your filling while preventing the center from puffing too much. Spread the cream cheese mixture inside each border, being careful not to overfill. Arrange fruit attractively on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Finish And Bake:
- Brush the pastry edges with egg wash and sprinkle with sanding sugar if desired. This simple step transforms the finished pastries from homemade to professional looking. Bake until golden and puffed, about 15 to 18 minutes. The pastries should have visibly risen with distinct flaky layers.
Pin it
My absolute favorite way to enjoy these is on a lazy Sunday morning with a cup of strong coffee. My daughter helps arrange the fruit in patterns, and she beams with pride when guests marvel at her artistic creations. These simple moments in the kitchen become cherished memories.
Make-Ahead Options
While the baked pastries are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline your morning routine. The cream cheese filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using to restore its spreadable consistency. You can also cut the pastry circles the night before and store them between layers of parchment paper in the refrigerator.
Pin it
Fruit Pairings and Combinations
The beauty of these pastries lies in their versatility. For spring, try strawberries with a touch of fresh mint. Summer calls for juicy peaches or plums with a drizzle of honey. Fall pastries shine with thinly sliced apples sprinkled with cinnamon. Winter versions can feature citrus segments or frozen berries. For an extra special treat, try combining complementary fruits like raspberries and peaches or blueberries and lemon curd.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your breakfast spread by serving these pastries with a selection of breakfast proteins like crispy bacon or a simple herb frittata for balance. A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds an elegant finishing touch. For brunch gatherings, create a pastry bar with various fruit toppings and let guests assemble their own. Serve alongside a sparkling punch or mimosas for festive occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What fruit works best for these pastries?
Any fruit can be used, including strawberries, raspberries, peaches, plums, apples, or pears. Opt for fresh or seasonal options for the best flavor.
- → Can I use pre-made pastry dough?
Yes, frozen puff pastry works perfectly for these pastries. Ensure it is thawed before use.
- → How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy?
Lightly score the pastry and ensure not to overload the filling or fruit. Baking promptly helps maintain a crisp texture.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Cream cheese is recommended for its smooth texture, but mascarpone could be an alternative for a richer flavor.
- → How long do these pastries stay fresh?
They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.