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Lemon Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Braid

Lemon Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Braid: A Sweet Showstopper

Lemon Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Braid is a stunning dessert that delights with its golden layers and versatile filling options.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 17 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pastry
  • 13 oz Ready Rolled Puff Pastry Choose a high-quality brand for best results.
For the Filling
  • 1/2 cup Lemon Curd Can substitute with other fruit preserves like raspberry or blueberry.
  • 5 oz Full Fat Cream Cheese Substitute with vegan cream cheese for a plant-based version.
  • 3 tbsp Icing/Powdered Sugar Low-calorie sweeteners can also work.
  • 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract Optional, adds lovely depth.
  • 1/2 tbsp Cornflour/Cornstarch Helps to stabilize the filling.
  • 1 Medium Egg Lightly beaten for glazing.

Equipment

  • oven
  • baking tray
  • Greaseproof paper
  • mixing bowl
  • electric mixer
  • sharp knife
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with greaseproof paper.
  2. Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and score it into thirds lengthwise, leaving the center for the filling.
  3. Cut diagonal slits on each outer third of the dough, about 1 inch apart, creating a zigzag pattern.
  4. Cut diagonal strips (3/4–1 inch thick) on both sides of the center section.
  5. Mix lemon curd, cream cheese, icing sugar, vanilla extract, and cornflour until creamy and smooth, then spoon it into the center of the pastry.
  6. Gently fold the strips over the filling, alternating sides to create the braid effect.
  7. Beat the egg and brush it over the surface of the braid. Bake for 17–22 minutes until golden.
  8. Let cool on the tray for about 30 minutes before slicing. Optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Ensure puff pastry stays cold before baking to maintain flakiness. Use a moderate filling amount to avoid leaks. Check for doneness early to prevent over-browning. Chill assembled braid for shaping before baking.