Flaky, buttery puff pastry meets luscious cheesecake filling and sweet cherry jam in this elegant braided dessert. Finished with a golden sugar crust and a snowy dusting of powdered sugar, this treat is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether served with warm green tea or fresh berries, it’s a showstopper that looks bakery-made but is simple enough to prepare at home.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 6–8
Cuisine: European-Inspired Dessert
Ingredients
-
375 g (13.2 oz) puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
-
200 g Philadelphia cheesecake bake filling or plain cream cheese
-
150 g cherry filling, cherry preserves, or thick cherry jam
-
1 egg yolk (for brushing)
-
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
-
Powdered sugar (for finishing)
-
Frozen berries (optional, for garnish)
-
Green tea (to serve)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pastry Base
Begin by rolling out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape. If the pastry has been frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator until pliable before working with it. Roll to a thickness of about 4 mm, ensuring it’s wide enough to hold the filling and braid the sides. -
Score and Slice for Braiding
Using a knife or pastry cutter, lightly score two vertical lines down the center third of the dough lengthwise—these are guides and should not be cut through. On each outer third of the dough, make horizontal cuts (about 1 inch apart) to create strips on both sides. These will later fold over the filling in a braided pattern. -
Add the Cheesecake Cream
Spread the cheesecake filling (Philadelphia or sweetened cream cheese) evenly down the center third of the dough. Keep it within the scored lines to avoid overfilling the edges. -
Layer on the Cherry Filling
Spoon cherry preserves or filling over the cheesecake layer. Use just enough to cover without letting it run too much—thicker jams work better here to avoid sogginess. -
Braid the Dough
Starting from the top, fold the top edge of the dough over the filling. Then alternate folding each strip from the left and right sides over the center, overlapping them slightly to create a beautiful braided effect. Tuck the bottom edge under to seal. -
Egg Wash and Sugar Sprinkle
Transfer the braid to a parchment-lined baking sheet. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk and brush it over the entire braid to give it a glossy finish. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the top for added crunch and caramelization. -
Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the pastry braid for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. The aroma of the buttery pastry and sweet cherries is a hint that it’s ready. -
Finishing Touches
Once baked, allow the braid to cool slightly. Dust generously with powdered sugar for a snowy, elegant finish. You can also top with a few frozen berries for extra visual appeal and a burst of tartness. -
Serve with Green Tea
Slice and serve the cherry cheesecake puff pastry braid warm or at room temperature, paired with a hot cup of green tea. The light bitterness of the tea contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the dessert.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 8 Servings)
-
Calories: 310 kcal
-
Protein: 5 g
-
Fat: 18 g
-
Carbohydrates: 32 g
-
Sugar: 14 g
-
Fiber: 1 g
-
Sodium: 180 mg
-
Cholesterol: 55 mg
Origins and Popularity
This braided pastry style originated in European kitchens, particularly in Danish and Austrian baking, where filled pastries are a breakfast staple. The idea of braiding puff pastry with a creamy filling has long been a favorite for holiday tables and bakery counters alike. Combining the texture of flaky dough with the smooth richness of cheesecake and bright fruit preserves, this dessert finds itself at the crossroads of elegance and comfort food.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
This dessert is beautiful to look at, simple to prepare, and incredibly satisfying to eat. The flaky, golden pastry contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake center and the tart sweetness of cherries. It’s perfect for:
-
Holiday breakfasts or brunch
-
Afternoon tea or coffee breaks
-
A sweet finish to a cozy dinner
-
Impressing guests with minimal effort
You can also customize the flavor with different jams, fruits, or even chocolate chips to create new variations every time.
Health Benefits
While indulgent, this pastry can still offer a few benefits:
-
Cherries are high in antioxidants and support anti-inflammatory responses.
-
Cream cheese provides calcium and protein, making the filling more satisfying.
-
Green tea is loaded with antioxidants (catechins) and can help balance the sugar intake by aiding digestion and regulating blood sugar levels.
-
Puff pastry, though rich in butter, can be portioned to control calorie intake without sacrificing the enjoyment of a special treat.
Serving Suggestions
-
Pair with matcha or mint green tea to balance the richness.
-
Top with fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
-
Add a drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce for a gourmet upgrade.
-
Serve with a light fruit salad for a refreshing finish.
Cooking Tips
-
Use cold puff pastry—it handles better and puffs up beautifully.
-
Don’t overfill—too much jam or cream will cause leakage during baking.
-
A second egg yolk brushing halfway through baking adds more golden color.
-
Chill the filled braid for 10 minutes before baking to keep its shape.
-
If using frozen berries, place them on top after baking to prevent sogginess.
Variations
-
Berry Delight: Use blueberry, raspberry, or mixed berry jam instead of cherry.
-
Chocolate Swirl: Add chocolate spread or chips to the cheesecake layer.
-
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed almonds or walnuts on top before baking.
-
Cinnamon Apple: Swap cherries for stewed apples with cinnamon and sugar.
-
Savory Version: Omit the sugar and use spinach-ricotta or feta-herb filling for a savory braid.
Conclusion
The Cherry Cheesecake Puff Pastry Braid is the kind of dessert that wins hearts effortlessly. With its crisp golden exterior and luscious creamy-fruity interior, it brings together the best of textures and flavors in one elegant pastry. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply indulging in a moment of sweetness with a warm cup of tea, this recipe will become a treasured favorite in your kitchen. It’s flexible, gorgeous, and incredibly delicious—proof that you don’t need a patisserie to enjoy a gourmet treat at home.
FAQ
1. Can I make this pastry ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 12 hours. Bake fresh when ready.
2. Can I freeze the baked braid?
Absolutely. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for 10–12 minutes.
3. What’s the best jam to use?
Thick cherry jam or pie filling is ideal. Avoid overly runny jams to prevent soggy pastry.
4. How do I prevent leaking while baking?
Use a firm filling and don’t overload. Chill the braid before baking if the dough has softened.
5. Can I use homemade cream cheese filling?
Yes. Mix cream cheese with sugar and a touch of vanilla extract for a DIY version.
6. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Use dairy-free puff pastry and cream cheese alternatives. It still turns out beautifully.
7. Can I make mini versions?
Yes! Cut the pastry into smaller sections and make individual mini braids.
8. Do I need to thaw frozen berries before topping?
No, use them straight from frozen to keep them intact and fresh-looking.
9. Is it too sweet for breakfast?
Not at all—it’s lightly sweet, similar to a Danish. Perfect with tea or coffee.
10. Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
Phyllo can work, but it results in a crispier, less puffy texture. Brush with butter between layers.