If you are looking for a show-stopping yet simple dessert, this Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie Recipe is an absolute keeper. Imagine buttery, flaky puff pastry layered with creamy, sweetened cream cheese and topped with luscious cherry pie filling—each bite bursting with the perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just craving something a little extra delightful, this pastry pie brings warmth, color, and texture that will charm every dessert lover at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie Recipe lies in its straightforward, carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, from the flaky puff pastry that provides structure to the smooth cream cheese and vibrant cherry filling that create irresistible layers of flavor.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed): The golden, flaky base that brings lightness and crunch to every bite.
- 1 cup cherry pie filling: Adds a burst of juicy tartness and beautiful color atop the cream cheese layer.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Delivers a creamy, tangy richness that perfectly complements the cherries.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling just right without overpowering the fruit.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances depth of flavor with its warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Ensures a gorgeously golden crust by brushing on the pastry edges.
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for topping): Adds a sparkling crunch and festive touch on the crust.
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): A delicate, sweet finish that makes presentation pop.
How to Make Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this helps keep your pastry from sticking and ensures easy cleanup. Getting these basics ready sets the stage for a flawlessly baked treat.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Mixture
Grab a small bowl and mix the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until silky smooth—this creates the luscious base that balances the fruit topping beautifully.
Step 3: Roll Out and Score the Puff Pastry
Unroll your thawed puff pastry onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a knife or pizza cutter, lightly score a 1-inch border around the edges—just enough to mark the area clearly without cutting all the way through. This scoring step helps the pastry puff up perfectly while keeping the filling contained.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly within the scored border, smoothing it gently. Then, spoon the cherry pie filling evenly on top of the cream cheese layer, making sure it covers the area but stays inside the border for neat, charming results.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the outer edges of the pastry with the beaten egg. This egg wash will give your crust a golden, shiny finish that looks irresistible. If you like a little extra sparkle and crunch, sprinkle coarse sugar over the edges now.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled pie in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
Step 7: Cool and Dust
Once out of the oven, allow the pastry pie to cool for a few minutes to let the cream cheese set slightly. Before serving, dust a light layer of powdered sugar over the top for that classic, elegant finish.
How to Serve Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cherries or a sprig of mint can elevate the look and add subtle freshness. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate also pairs wonderfully if you want to make the experience even more indulgent.
Side Dishes
This pastry pie stands perfectly on its own but serving it alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of creamy custard offers a delightful contrast in temperature and texture that guests will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the pastry pie into smaller squares for a party platter or create mini versions using puff pastry cups. You can even drizzle with a berry coulis or dust with cinnamon for a personalized twist on the classic Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cherry cheese pastry pie wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The crust tastes best fresh, but careful storage keeps it enjoyable.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the unbaked assembled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to one month. When ready, bake without thawing, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This will refresh the crispiness of the pastry and warm the cherry filling, making it taste almost as good as freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry directly from the freezer?
It’s best to thaw puff pastry fully in the refrigerator before using to ensure it rolls out smoothly and bakes evenly. Using it frozen may lead to uneven puffing and texture.
Is it possible to substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruits?
Absolutely! Blueberry, raspberry, or apple pie fillings all work beautifully with the cream cheese layer in this recipe, offering exciting variations while keeping the same delicious framework.
Can I make the cream cheese filling sweeter or less sweet?
Yes, feel free to adjust the sugar in the cream cheese mixture to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar slightly or omit the powdered sugar dusting.
How do I prevent the edges of the puff pastry from burning?
Applying an egg wash and sprinkling coarse sugar creates a golden crust, but to avoid burning, keep an eye on the pastry while baking and reduce oven temperature by 25°F if your oven runs hot.
Is this Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie Recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! All the ingredients used are vegetarian-friendly, making this dessert a perfect choice for those following a vegetarian diet.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe that once you try this Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie Recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your dessert collection. The combination of tangy cream cheese, juicy cherries, and buttery puff pastry is pure comfort wrapped in elegance. So grab those few simple ingredients, gather your loved ones, and create a warm, joyful moment around this delightful treat.
Print
Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cherry Cheese Pastry Pie is a delightful dessert featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a smooth cream cheese layer and sweet cherry pie filling. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, it offers the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and buttery flavors topped with a golden crust and optional sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Filling
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for topping)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the pastry from sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring a sweet and flavorful base for the filling.
- Prepare the puff pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the lined baking sheet. Using a knife, lightly score a 1-inch border around the edges without cutting all the way through. This border will create a raised edge while baking.
- Assemble the pie: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly within the scored border on the puff pastry. Then, spoon the cherry pie filling uniformly on top of the cream cheese layer, making sure to distribute it well for balanced flavor in each bite.
- Apply egg wash and toppings: Brush the beaten egg gently over the outer edges of the pastry to give it a beautiful golden color when baked. If desired, sprinkle the crust with coarse sugar to add an extra sweet crunch.
- Bake the pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown, indicating it is perfectly cooked and flaky.
- Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Before serving, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Enjoy warm or chilled, optionally paired with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- You can use homemade cherry pie filling or substitute with other fruit fillings such as blueberry or apple for variety.
- Serve the pastry pie warm for a gooey texture, or chilled if you prefer a firmer filling.
- Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to enhance the dessert experience.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
