With the holiday season just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to indulge in some festive baking. If you’re looking for a treat that combines the sweet flavor of cherries with a heavenly touch, then Cherry Angels are the perfect choice for your gatherings. These delightful pastries are both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The combination of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and tart cherries will surely impress your guests. Let’s dive into the recipe for these delectable Cherry Angels!
**Cherry Angels**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup of cherry pie filling
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:** In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. Set the filling aside.
2. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. **Cut the Puff Pastry:** Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the pastry. Place the pastry circles on the prepared baking sheet.
4. **Add the Cream Cheese Filling:** Place a dollop of the cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. **Add the Cherry Filling:** Top the cream cheese filling with a spoonful of cherry pie filling, spreading it evenly.
6. **Fold the Pastry:** Using a sharp knife, make cuts around the edges of the pastry circle, not cutting all the way to the center where the fillings are. Fold the cut sections of pastry over the fillings, creating an angel wing-like shape.
7. **Brush with Egg Wash:** Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg. This will help the pastry achieve a beautiful golden color as it bakes.
8. **Bake the Cherry Angels:** Place the prepared pastries in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
9. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once baked, remove the Cherry Angels from the oven and let them cool slightly. Dust them with powdered sugar before serving, adding an extra touch of elegance.
These Cherry Angels are perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon teas, or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and visually appealing treat. The flaky puff pastry, creamy cheese filling, and zesty cherry flavor create a delightful combination that will have everyone asking for more. So, next time you’re in the mood for some festive baking, give these Cherry Angels a try – they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
