Philadelphia Cream Cheese Pastry Recipe – 3 Easy Wins

You’ll love how simple and tasty this Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe is. With a buttery crust and a creamy center, it’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. Best part? You can make it sweet or savoury—whatever your mood!

Ingredients for Philadelphia Cream Cheese Pastry Recipe

To make the best Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. These are easy to find and make a delicious, flaky pastry that’s perfect for sweet or savoury treats.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Basic Pastry Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small cubes)
• 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese (softened)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt

This mix creates a soft and buttery cream cheese dough for tarts or turnovers. It’s rich but not too heavy, thanks to the balance of butter and cream cheese.

Optional Sweet Fillings

• 1/2 cup fruit preserves or jam (strawberry, raspberry, or apricot)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling)

If you want to try a puff pastry with cream cheese and fruit filling, these ingredients work beautifully.

Optional Savoury Fillings

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped cooked spinach or mushrooms
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

These ingredients make a delicious cream cheese pastry savory version that’s great for snacks or appetizers.

Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to put it all together. This Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe easy guide walks you through each step using simple instructions anyone can follow.

Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Slowly add the flour and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 1 hour.

Chilling helps create that flaky texture you want in a Philadelphia cream cheese puff pastry.

Roll and Cut the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick.
3. Use a round or square cookie cutter to cut out shapes.

This step works for both sweet and savoury cream cheese pastry recipes.

Add Your Filling

• For sweet pastries, place a small spoonful of fruit jam or filling in the center.
• For savoury ones, add a bit of cheese and veggies.

Be sure not to overfill!

Seal and Bake

1. Fold the pastry over the filling and press the edges with a fork.
2. Place pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown.

That’s it! You’ve just made a Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe puff pastry that tastes amazing.

Health Benefits

You might not think of pastries as “healthy,” but when made right, this Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe can offer some surprising perks. It’s all about balance and using real, wholesome ingredients.

Cream Cheese Adds Protein and Calcium

Philadelphia cream cheese is a good source of calcium and has a bit of protein too. These nutrients help support strong bones and muscles, especially important for growing kids and active adults.

• 2 tablespoons of cream cheese = about 2 grams of protein
• It also provides a small amount of Vitamin A and B12

While it’s not a superfood, it does give your pastry a little nutritional boost.

Fewer Additives with Homemade Pastry

Making your own cream cheese dough for tarts at home means no weird preservatives or hidden ingredients. You control what goes in, from the type of flour to the fillings.

That means:

• Less sugar (especially in sweet versions)
• No artificial flavors or colors
• Better for people with food sensitivities

Easy to Add Fruits or Veggies

You can sneak in healthy extras like:

• Fresh berries or fruit in sweet versions
• Spinach, mushrooms, or onions in cream cheese pastry savory versions

These additions help boost fiber, vitamins, and overall flavor. It’s a tasty way to add color and nutrition to your plate.

Tips for Achieving the Best Results

To get the most out of your Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe, here are some smart and simple tips. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, these can help you make flaky, golden, and tasty pastries every time.

Keep Ingredients Cold

When making cream cheese dough for tarts, cold ingredients are key. Cold butter and cream cheese help create that light, layered texture.

• Chill your dough for at least 1 hour
• Use cold water if your recipe calls for any extra liquid
• Handle the dough as little as possible to avoid melting the fats

This helps create a texture like Philadelphia cream cheese puff pastry—crisp on the outside, soft on the inside.

Don’t Overfill the Pastries

It can be tempting to pack in lots of filling, especially with delicious flavors like fruit or cheese. But too much can cause leaks and soggy bottoms.

Here’s how to avoid that:

• Use only 1 to 1½ teaspoons of filling per pastry
• Seal the edges tightly with a fork or your fingers
• Leave space around the edges for the dough to expand

Whether you’re making a puff pastry with cream cheese and fruit filling or something savory, less is often more.

Use an Egg Wash for Shine

If you want your pastry to look bakery-style, brush the tops with a beaten egg before baking.

• Mix 1 egg with 1 tbsp water
• Lightly brush over the pastry surface with a pastry brush

This gives a golden, glossy finish and helps bring out that best Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe appearance.

Don’t Skip the Cooling Time

Once your pastries come out of the oven, let them cool on a rack. This keeps them from getting soggy and helps set the filling.

Even just 10–15 minutes of cooling:

• Prevents burns from hot filling
• Helps the dough stay crisp
• Makes them easier to handle or store

In the mood for a cool, creamy treat? Try our Lemon Tiramisu Recipe Without Limoncello – 3 Easy Steps for a citrusy twist on a classic favorite.

Variations of Philadelphia Cream Cheese Pastry Recipe

One of the best things about this Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe is how flexible it is. You can switch up the flavors, shapes, and fillings to suit any mood or occasion.

Sweet Fruit-Filled Pastries

For dessert or a snack, try making a puff pastry with cream cheese and fruit filling. These are sweet, creamy, and full of fruity flavor.

Great fruit fillings include:

• Strawberry or raspberry jam
• Apple cinnamon slices
• Blueberries with a touch of honey

Pair with a little sugar and vanilla for an easy upgrade.

Savoury Cheese and Veggie Options

Want something more like a snack or appetizer? Go for a Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe savoury version.

Try filling combos like:

• Cream cheese, spinach, and garlic
• Shredded cheddar and cooked mushrooms
• Bacon bits with mozzarella

These work great for parties or lunchbox treats!

Mini Tarts and Turnovers

You don’t have to make big pastries—this Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe easy version works great for mini desserts too.

• Use mini muffin tins to create tarts
• Fold dough into triangles or circles for turnovers
• Bake them bite-sized for fun finger food

Add a Touch of Spice or Zest

Change things up with some bold flavors! For both sweet and savoury types, try adding:

• A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg
• Lemon zest for a fresh twist
• Red pepper flakes in savoury options

These small changes go a long way in making your pastries pop!

Planning to bake more with cream cheese? This Recipe Cheesecake Philadelphia: 3 Tips for a Perfect Dessert will guide you to creamy perfection every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common slip-ups to watch out for. Avoiding these helps you get perfect results every time you make a Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe puff pastry.

Using Soft or Warm Butter

Warm butter makes the dough greasy and flat. Always use cold butter and chill the dough before rolling. This helps your pastries stay flaky and light.

Overmixing the Dough

If you mix the dough too much, it can get tough. You want it just combined—not whipped or over-kneaded.

Here’s how to avoid it:

• Mix until the flour disappears
• Stop once it holds together
• Don’t worry if it looks a little rough—it’ll smooth out later

Skipping the Chill Time

Chilling the dough is not optional! It’s key for texture and taste.

• 1 hour minimum in the fridge
• Overnight is even better for flavor development

Overstuffing the Pastries

Too much filling = leaks and soggy crusts. Stick to small amounts, and press the edges firmly shut.

This is especially important for both cream cheese pastry savory versions and sweet ones with jam or fruit.

Not Preheating the Oven

If the oven isn’t fully hot, the butter melts too early, and the pastry turns out flat and soft.

• Preheat to 375°F before you bake
• Use the middle rack for even cooking

Want to try something savory with a twist? Don’t miss our Philadelphia Cream Cheese Recipes with Hamburger: 3 Easy Tips for an easy, creamy dinner idea.

Serving Suggestions

Your Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe is ready—but how should you serve it? Whether sweet or savoury, there are lots of fun ways to enjoy your pastries!

Sweet Breakfast or Brunch Treat

Turn your pastries into a cozy morning bite. Sweet versions with fruit or jam pair perfectly with breakfast.

Try serving them with:

• Fresh berries or sliced bananas
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup
• A dusting of powdered sugar on top

This is a great way to enjoy puff pastry with cream cheese and fruit filling at brunch or on weekends.

Savoury Snacks and Party Bites

If you made a cream cheese pastry savory version, they’re perfect for finger foods or appetizers.

Serve with:

• A dipping sauce like ranch or marinara
• A small salad on the side
• Warm soup for a cozy meal

Mini pastries also make great potluck or picnic options!

Dessert with a Twist

Want to turn your pastries into a fancy dessert? You can dress them up with simple toppings.

Ideas include:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Melted chocolate drizzle
• Chopped nuts or sprinkles

Sweet or savoury, this best Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe always fits the occasion.

Looking for the original? Check out our Original Philadelphia Cheesecake Recipe on Box — it’s a classic dessert that never goes out of style!

Storing & Reheating

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to keep your pastries fresh and tasty for later. Proper storage and reheating help preserve that flaky, creamy goodness.

How to Store

Let pastries cool completely before storing. Then:

• Place them in an airtight container
• Keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking

If storing longer, freeze them!

• Wrap pastries individually in plastic wrap
• Place in a freezer-safe bag
• Freeze for up to 2 months

Best Ways to Reheat

To keep that Philadelphia cream cheese puff pastry texture, avoid the microwave if possible.

Better options:

• Oven: 350°F for 8–10 minutes
• Toaster oven: 5–7 minutes
• Air fryer: 5 minutes at 325°F

This keeps the outside crispy and the inside soft.

Avoid Soggy Results

Here’s how to keep your pastries from going mushy:

• Don’t reheat in the microwave
• Skip reheating if eating cold savory versions
• Always reheat uncovered for better texture

Conclusion

Making this Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe is easier than you might think—and way more fun than buying store-bought pastries. Whether you go sweet with fruit or savoury with cheese and veggies, each bite is flaky, creamy, and packed with flavor.

This recipe is super flexible:

• It works for breakfast, dessert, or party snacks
• You can change up fillings to fit your mood
• It’s freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead days

So grab your cream cheese, roll out your dough, and give it a try. You’ve got this!

FAQ

Can you make pastry with cream cheese?

Yes, you sure can! Cream cheese pastry dough is soft, buttery, and super easy to make. It’s great for both sweet and savory recipes.

Is Philadelphia cream cheese good for baking?

Definitely. Philadelphia cream cheese is smooth and rich, which makes it perfect for baking. It blends well and adds great texture to pastries and fillings.

Can you melt Philadelphia cream cheese?

Yes, but do it slowly over low heat. You can also soften it in the microwave for a few seconds if you’re adding it to a warm dish or mixing it into a dough.

Can cream cheese filling be baked?

Yes! Whether it’s sweet or savoury, cream cheese filling holds up well in the oven. It gets creamy, warm, and delicious when baked inside pastry.

What cheese is best for pastry?

Besides Philadelphia cream cheese, other great options include:

• Ricotta for a light texture
• Mozzarella for meltiness
• Cheddar for sharp flavor in savoury pastries

Why use cream cheese in baking?

Cream cheese makes baked goods moist and flavorful. In pastry, it helps create soft, flaky layers and adds a slightly tangy taste that’s super yummy.

Flaky Philadelphia Cream Cheese Pastry Bites (Sweet or Savoury)

Recipe by Calven ArlithCourse: Snacks RecipesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

9

pastries

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

22

minutes

Calories per pastry

200

kcal

Total time

37

minutes

This Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe is light, flaky, and filled with rich cream cheese. Customize it sweet or savoury—it’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• For the dough:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

• 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, cold

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• Optional sweet filling:

• 1/3 cup fruit jam or preserves

• 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)

• Optional savoury filling:

• 1/2 cup cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms

• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella

• For egg wash (optional):

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon water

Directions

• Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add cold butter and cream cheese. Use a pastry cutter or hands to mix until dough just comes together. Do not overwork.
• Chill the dough: Form dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 1 hour.
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Roll and cut: Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into squares or circles.
• Add filling: Place a small spoonful of fruit jam or savoury mix in the center of each piece. Fold over to make a triangle or half-moon. Seal edges with a fork.
• Brush with egg wash and sprinkle sugar if using sweet filling.
• Bake: Place on the baking sheet and bake for 20–22 minutes or until golden brown.
• Cool and enjoy! Let pastries cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• For sweeter pastries, add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling.
• Don’t overfill, or the pastries may burst open while baking.
• Dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
• Pastries freeze well—just reheat in the oven for 5–7 minutes at 325°F.

Share Your Experience

Tried this Philadelphia cream cheese pastry recipe at home? We’d love to hear how it went!

• What filling did you use—sweet or savoury?
• Did your family or friends love it?
• Got a fun twist or tip to share?

Drop a comment below and help other readers get inspired! Your ideas might just become someone else’s favorite version of this tasty treat.