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Golden Braided Puff Pastry with Zesty Lemon Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 139 reviews

This Golden Braided Puff Pastry with Zesty Lemon Cream Cheese Filling is a visually stunning and delicious dessert that combines flaky, buttery puff pastry with a tangy, creamy lemon filling. The braided design adds an elegant touch, making it perfect for brunch, tea time, or special occasions. Finished with a sweet lemon glaze, this pastry balances tartness and sweetness beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale

Puff Pastry

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Lemon Cream Cheese Filling

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Egg Wash

  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Lemon Glaze

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1–2 teaspoons lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Make Lemon Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring a rich and tangy filling.
  3. Prepare Puff Pastry: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly to smooth out any creases. Transfer the pastry to the prepared baking sheet carefully.
  4. Fill the Pastry: Spoon the lemon cream cheese mixture down the center third of the pastry, leaving some space at the top and bottom edges for folding.
  5. Cut Strips for Braiding: Using a sharp knife, cut diagonal strips about 1 inch apart along both sides of the pastry. These strips will be used to create the braided pattern.
  6. Braid the Pastry: Fold the top and bottom edges of the pastry over the filling. Then take the diagonal strips and alternate crossing them over the filling to form an attractive braided design.
  7. Apply Egg Wash: Whisk together the egg and milk, then brush this mixture over the braided pastry to give it a beautiful golden and shiny finish when baked.
  8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes until the puff pastry is puffed up and deeply golden brown, indicating it’s fully cooked.
  9. Prepare and Drizzle Glaze: Let the pastry cool slightly. Meanwhile, mix the powdered sugar with 1 to 2 teaspoons of lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle this zesty glaze over the cooled braid before serving to add extra sweetness and a bright lemon flavor.

Notes

  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother filling.
  • If puff pastry sheets come frozen, thaw according to package instructions before starting.
  • You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice, but fresh is recommended for the best flavor.
  • The glaze consistency can be adjusted by adding more or less lemon juice depending on your preference.
  • This pastry is best enjoyed fresh the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • For extra texture, sprinkle some finely chopped lemon zest over the glaze before it sets.

Keywords: braided puff pastry, lemon cream cheese pastry, lemon dessert, braided pastry, lemon cream cheese filling, easy baked dessert, puff pastry recipe

Find it online: https://platedandproud.com/golden-braided-puff-pastry-with-zesty-lemon-cream-cheese-filling-recipe/