Some desserts are more than just sweet treats—they’re a delightful way to bring joy, creativity, and a touch of elegance to any occasion. Easy Mini Cherry Pastries with Cream Cheese is one such dessert. These bite-sized pastries are a perfect combination of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and sweet-tart cherry topping, making them ideal for brunches, tea parties, or even as a quick indulgence with your morning coffee. Imagine buttery, golden pastry cups filled with smooth cream cheese and crowned with a glossy cherry topping. It’s a dessert that feels both fancy and approachable, whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a midday snack.

The first time I made these pastries, it was for a baby shower. I wanted something that looked elegant but was easy to prepare, and this recipe caught my eye. As I assembled the pastries, the aroma of buttery pastry and sweet cherries filled the kitchen, and my guests couldn’t stop peeking in to see what I was making. When I finally brought out the platter of mini pastries, everyone’s eyes lit up. “These are adorable!” one guest exclaimed, reaching for one. As they took their first bites, the room filled with murmurs of approval. “These taste like they came from a bakery!” someone said. Since then, Easy Mini Cherry Pastries with Cream Cheese have become a go-to recipe for any occasion.

The first time I served these pastries to my family, it was during a weekend brunch. My kids, who are usually picky eaters, were immediately drawn to the mini pastries. “Can I have one?” my daughter asked, eyeing the platter. When I handed her one, she took a bite and her face lit up. “This is so good!” she said, reaching for another. Even my husband, who’s not much of a dessert person, couldn’t resist. “These are amazing,” he said, helping himself to a second pastry. That day, Easy Mini Cherry Pastries with Cream Cheese became a family favorite, and they’ve been a staple at our brunches ever since.

Why This Easy Mini Cherry Pastries with Cream Cheese?

Selling Points:

• Elegant and Fun: The mini size and beautiful presentation make these pastries perfect for any occasion.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy home cooks.
• Versatile: Great for brunches, tea parties, or as a sweet snack any time of day.
• Customizable: Swap out the cherry topping for your favorite fruit or jam to make it your own.

What You Need for Easy Mini Cherry Pastries with Cream Cheese

Ingredients:

For the Pastries:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cherry Topping:

• 1 cup cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Easy Mini Cherry Pastries with Cream Cheese

1. Prepare the Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 12 equal squares. Press each square into a greased mini muffin tin, forming small pastry cups.
2. Add the Egg Wash: Brush the edges of each pastry cup with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
3. Bake the Pastry Cups: Bake the pastry cups in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Pastries: Once the pastry cups have cooled, spoon a small amount of the cream cheese filling into each cup. Top with a teaspoon of cherry pie filling.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Mini Cherry Pastries

• Thaw the Pastry: Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before using to ensure even baking.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the pastry cups with cream cheese or cherry topping to avoid spills.
• Serve Fresh: These pastries are best served fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for a few hours if needed.

Substitutions and Variations

• Different Toppings: Swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or apple compote.
• Chocolate Twist: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent treat.
• Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a citrusy twist.

Make a Healthier Version

• Low-Fat Cream Cheese: Use low-fat or Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter filling.
• Whole Wheat Pastry: Use whole wheat puff pastry if available for added fiber.
• Sugar-Free Topping: Opt for a sugar-free cherry pie filling or make your own compote with less sugar.

Closing for Easy Mini Cherry Pastries with Cream Cheese

This Easy Mini Cherry Pastries with Cream Cheese is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of simplicity, elegance, and the joy of sharing something sweet with loved ones. Whether you’re serving it at a special event or enjoying it as a treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your pastries turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions Easy Mini Cherry Pastries with Cream Cheese

Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pastry cups and cream cheese filling a day in advance and assemble them just before serving.

Can I freeze these pastries?
Yes, you can freeze the baked pastry cups in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw and fill them before serving.

Can I use a different fruit topping?
Absolutely! Try using blueberry, strawberry, or peach pie filling for a variation.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free puff pastry to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I add other flavors to the cream cheese filling?
Yes, try adding a bit of lemon zest, almond extract, or cocoa powder for a unique twist.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I make these in a regular muffin tin?
Yes, you can use a regular muffin tin to make larger pastries. Adjust the baking time as needed.

What’s the best way to serve these pastries?
Serve them fresh at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Can I make these vegan?
Yes, use vegan puff pastry and a plant-based cream cheese alternative for a vegan version.

This Easy Mini Cherry Pastries with Cream Cheese is a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!

Easy Mini Cherry Pastries with Cream Cheese

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Pastries:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• For the Cherry Topping:

• 1 cup cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)

• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Prepare the Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 12 equal squares. Press each square into a greased mini muffin tin, forming small pastry cups.
• Add the Egg Wash: Brush the edges of each pastry cup with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
• Bake the Pastry Cups: Bake the pastry cups in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
• Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
• Assemble the Pastries: Once the pastry cups have cooled, spoon a small amount of the cream cheese filling into each cup. Top with a teaspoon of cherry pie filling.
• Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired, and serve immediately.