Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, flaky pastry that reveals a creamy, fruity surprise inside – that's exactly what these Fruit and Cheese Pockets promise! Whether you're looking to impress guests, treat yourself to a quick dessert, or find the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, this recipe is about to become your new culinary obsession. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy treat that looks like it took hours to prepare, but actually comes together in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: International
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup assorted fruits (e.g., apples, berries)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the fruits by washing and dicing them into small, uniform pieces. If using apples, peel and core them before chopping.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well-blended.
- Carefully unfold the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, divide the pastry into 4 equal squares.
- Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square, leaving a border around the edges.
- Top the cream cheese with the prepared fruit, distributing evenly across the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the corners of the pastry towards the center, creating a pocket-like shape. Gently press the edges to seal the filling inside.
- Brush the exterior of each pastry pocket with beaten egg, which will help create a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Transfer the prepared pockets to the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey before serving for extra sweetness.
Tips
- Pastry Temperature Matters: Ensure your puff pastry is thoroughly thawed but still cold for the flakiest results. Work quickly to keep the dough chilled.
- Fruit Selection: Choose fruits that complement each other and aren't too watery. A mix of berries and diced apples works perfectly, but feel free to get creative!
- Cream Cheese Consistency: Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easy mixing, but don't let it get too warm.
- Sealing Technique: Use a fork to gently crimp the edges of the pastry to ensure the filling stays inside during baking.
- Egg Wash Secret: For an extra golden and shiny finish, apply the egg wash carefully and evenly with a pastry brush.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the pockets to cool slightly before serving to let the filling set and prevent burning your mouth.
- Serving Suggestion: These pockets are versatile – serve them warm as a dessert or cool as a delightful breakfast pastry!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
