Puff Pastry Cherry Strudel

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cherry strudel is a classic dessert, and using puff pastry makes it even more irresistible. The layers of crisp, buttery pastry pair perfectly with the juicy, tangy cherries. The filling is easy to prepare and can be customized with a touch of cinnamon or almond extract. Puff Pastry Cherry Strudel is not only delicious but also impressively beautiful, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or special occasions. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just getting started, this recipe is a foolproof way to create a show-stopping treat!

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed if frozen

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for brushing)

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the cherry filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the cherries release their juice, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

2. Prepare the puff pastry: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle. Make sure it’s large enough to wrap around the cherry filling.

3. Assemble the strudel: Once the cherry filling has cooled, spoon it along the center of the pastry sheet. Be sure to leave a little space on each side for folding. Fold the sides of the pastry over the filling, then carefully roll the pastry into a log or cylinder shape, sealing the edges.

4. Prepare the egg wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the top of the strudel. This will give the pastry a golden, shiny finish once baked.

5. Bake the strudel: Place the strudel seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with the melted butter for extra crispiness and flavor. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed up.

6. Cool and serve: Once the strudel is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 6-8 slices

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Fruit variations: Feel free to swap out the cherries for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or apples. You can even use a mix of berries for a colorful twist.

• Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or even cardamom to the cherry filling for a more complex flavor profile.

• Almond extract: For an added depth of flavor, substitute the vanilla extract with almond extract.

• Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze (made from powdered sugar and milk) over the cooled strudel for extra sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Puff Pastry Cherry Strudel is best enjoyed fresh, as the puff pastry remains crisp and flaky when freshly baked. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the strudel in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore the crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture in the filling.

2. Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?

Phyllo dough will result in a slightly different texture, but it can still be used. You’ll need to brush each layer with butter, and the result will be a crispier, more delicate pastry.

3. How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?

Make sure the cherry filling is cooled completely before adding it to the pastry, and ensure that the pastry is sealed properly to prevent leaking. Also, avoid overfilling the strudel.

4. Can I freeze this strudel before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled strudel before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, simply brush it with egg wash and bake straight from the freezer for an additional 5-10 minutes.

5. Can I add a glaze to the strudel?

Yes, a glaze made from powdered sugar and a small amount of milk or cream can be drizzled over the cooled strudel for an extra touch of sweetness.

6. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cherry filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before assembling the strudel.

7. How do I know when the strudel is done?

The strudel is done when the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy. You can also check that the filling is bubbly and hot.

8. Can I use other types of pastry dough?

Puff pastry is ideal for this recipe because it becomes wonderfully flaky, but you can use other pastry doughs, like shortcrust or even croissant dough, for different textures.

9. Can I add nuts to the filling?

Yes, you can add chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch and flavor.

10. Can I make this strudel with a different type of fruit?

Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, and you can substitute the cherries with other fruits like apples, peaches, or pears. Just be sure to adjust the sugar and spices accordingly to suit the fruit you choose.

Conclusion

Puff Pastry Cherry Strudel is a show-stopping dessert that combines the delicious flavor of cherries with the buttery, flaky texture of puff pastry. It’s simple to make, yet impressive enough for any occasion. Whether you serve it warm from the oven or let it cool to room temperature, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your household. With endless variations and options to customize, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to time and time again!