- Prepare the Pastry
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 6-8 rectangles or circles. Place them on the baking sheet and brush each with beaten egg. Optionally, sprinkle with a bit of sugar for extra sweetness. - Bake the Pastry
Bake the puff pastry for 12-15 minutes, or until golden and puffed. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. - Make the Cream Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. - Assemble the Pastries
Once the pastry shells have cooled, use a spoon or piping bag to fill each one with the cream filling. Arrange fresh berries on top of the cream. For a glossy finish, warm the apricot jam slightly and brush it over the berries. - Serve
Serve immediately for the best texture, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Customization Ideas
- Different Fruits: Swap berries with sliced kiwi, mango, or peaches for a tropical twist.
- Lemon Cream: Add a bit of lemon zest or lemon curd to the cream filling for a citrusy flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the filled pastries for an extra touch of decadence.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Prevent Sogginess: Only fill the pastries when they’re fully cooled to keep the pastry from becoming soggy.
- Serving Fresh: These pastries are best served fresh to keep the pastry crispy.
Serving Suggestions
- Sprinkle of Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar over the finished pastries adds a pretty, finishing touch.
- Garnish with Fresh Mint: Add a sprig of mint on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Conclusion
These Cream and Berry-Filled Pastries are a beautiful and delicious way to impress at any event. With flaky pastry, rich cream, and fresh berries, they’re a versatile and delightful treat that will be loved by all!
