Ingredients
For the Blueberry Filling
- 18 oz fresh blueberries (about 2 cups)
- β cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 7 Tbsp water, divided
- 3 Tbsp cornstarch
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- β cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Pastry Base
- 2 boxes puff pastry shells (typically found in the freezer section; allow to thaw slightly if directed)
Instructions
Preparing the Blueberry Filling
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, add the blueberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and 3 tablespoons of water. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
- Thicken the Filling: In a separate small bowl, mix the remaining 4 tablespoons of water with the cornstarch, stirring until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Pour this cornstarch mixture into the saucepan with the blueberry mixture and stir continuously until it thickens, usually within a couple of minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until it is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Continue to beat until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth. Set aside.
Baking the Puff Pastry Shells
- Prepare the Pastries: Follow the package directions for baking the puff pastry shells. Most puff pastries require a preheated oven and will bake until golden brown, usually around 15-20 minutes. Be sure to leave adequate space between each pastry as they will puff up while baking.
- Cool and Prepare for Filling: Once baked, carefully remove the pastries from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Using a small knife, remove the βtopβ or center of each pastry shell, creating a well for the fillings.
Assembling the Pastries
- Layer the Fillings: Begin by adding a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture to the center of each pastry shell. Spread slightly to ensure an even layer.
- Add Blueberry Filling: Next, add a spoonful of the cooled blueberry filling on top of the cream cheese layer. For an added visual touch, you can swirl a small dab of the cream cheese mixture on top of the blueberries for a decorative effect.
- Top with Fresh Blueberries: Garnish with a few fresh blueberries on top for a burst of color and extra freshness.
- Serve and Enjoy: These pastries are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but they also taste delicious at room temperature. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Frozen Blueberries: If fresh blueberries are unavailable, you can substitute with frozen blueberries. However, allow them to thaw slightly and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the saucepan.
- Pastry Shell Alternatives: If you canβt find puff pastry shells, you can use puff pastry sheets. Cut them into squares, bake until golden, and create a similar βwellβ in the center by pressing down after baking.
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a slightly less sweet filling, reduce the sugar in either the blueberry or cream cheese filling by a tablespoon or two.
- Additional Garnishes: Consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar on top for a touch of elegance, or drizzle a bit of melted white chocolate over each pastry for added sweetness.
- Serving Suggestions: These pastries are delightful on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a serving of vanilla ice cream on the side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes