Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls : Irresistible Dessert Delight

If you're searching for a dessert that's both fancy and easy to make, these cream and berry-filled pastry balls are the perfect treat. With a golden, flaky crust and a creamy, berry-filled center, these little bites are a showstopper for any occasion. Whether you're hosting afternoon tea, a party, or just looking for something sweet, these pastry balls will satisfy your cravings.

A Versatile Treat for Any Occasion

These pastry balls filled with cream and berries are perfect for breakfast or dessert. Serve them with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a fresh fruit salad for a more indulgent treat. They're also great as a sweet snack with your morning coffee or as a highlight on your holiday dessert table.

Their combination of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and juicy berries makes them hard to resist. Not only are they easy to make, but their elegant presentation makes them suitable for formal gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you'll create a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 2 sheets of thawed puff pastry (one box)
• 1 cup of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for topping)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

• In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness with extra powdered sugar if needed. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Berries

• Wash the berries thoroughly and pat them dry. Hull and chop the strawberries into small pieces. For a jam-like filling, lightly mash some of the berries to release their juices.

Step 4: Prepare the Pastry

• Once the puff pastry sheets have thawed, roll them out on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any wrinkles. Cut each sheet into 9 squares, resulting in 18 pieces total.

Step 5: Assemble the Pastry Balls

• Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Top with a few berries, but don’t overfill to avoid difficulty sealing the dough.
• Pinch the four corners of each square together to form a ball, enclosing the filling. Seal any open edges by pinching them tightly to ensure the filling stays inside during baking.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Topping

• Arrange the filled pastry balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish. If desired, sprinkle with a little granulated sugar for extra sweetness and crunch.

Step 7: Bake

• Bake the pastry balls in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

• Let the pastry balls cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving plate. For a finishing touch, dust the tops with powdered sugar.

Tips for Making the Best Cream and Berry-Filled Pastry Balls:

• Choose Your Berries: Use a mix of tart and sweet berries for a more balanced flavor. If using frozen berries, make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the pastry.
• Variety of Fillings: Add some creativity by using different fillings like Nutella, lemon curd, or chopped nuts along with the cream cheese.
• Puff Pastry Handling: Keep the puff pastry cold until you're ready to use it for the best texture.
• Sealing the Pastry: Ensure the edges are tightly pinched to avoid any leaks during baking. If necessary, use extra dough to patch any gaps.
• Serve Fresh: These pastry balls are best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the oven for 5 minutes to crisp them up if needed.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 14g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 12g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, these pastry balls come together quickly.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these treats can be dressed up or kept simple.
• Elegant Presentation: Their attractive look makes them ideal for formal events and casual gatherings alike.

These cream and berry-filled pastry balls are not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. The combination of flaky pastry, rich cream cheese filling, and juicy berries is irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a special event or just treating yourself, these pastry balls will quickly become a favorite!

Enjoy baking this delightful treat and share the joy with family and friends!