Description
These Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites are delightful, flaky puff pastry squares filled with a creamy sweetened cream cheese mixture and topped with fresh raspberries. Perfect as a sweet snack or an elegant dessert, these bites combine light, buttery pastry with the tangy sweetness of raspberries, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar for a charming presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed, if frozen)
Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (or raspberry preserves for a twist)
Finishing
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Cut it into 12 equal squares, approximately 2×2 inches each, to form individual bites.
- Make Filling: In a small bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Assemble Bites: Place a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Top each dollop with one or two fresh raspberries, or alternatively, use a small spoonful of raspberry preserves for a different flavor.
- Seal Edges: Gently fold the corners of each puff pastry square over the filling, pressing lightly to seal the edges and encase the filling completely.
- Bake: Arrange the assembled bites on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool & Dust: Remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust the tops with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
- Using fresh raspberries adds a nice tartness, while raspberry preserves create a sweeter, jammy flavor.
- Make sure to seal the pastry edges well to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- These bites are best served warm or at room temperature.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
