Indulgent Strawberry Cream Cheese Crescent Braid Recipe

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, the passionate creator behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Strawberry Cream Cheese Crescent Braid recipe—a delightful and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish combines sweet strawberries and creamy cheese, all wrapped in flaky crescent dough. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a culinary experience that invites family and friends to gather around the table.

Cooking and baking have always been close to my heart, especially when my 6-year-old son joins me in the kitchen. It transforms our cooking sessions into special bonding moments. So, let’s dive into this vibrant recipe that will surely bring joy to your kitchen!

Ingredients

To create this scrumptious Strawberry Cream Cheese Crescent Braid, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 can of crescent roll dough
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: additional powdered sugar for dusting

Timing

Timing is essential in cooking, and this recipe is no exception. Here’s a quick overview:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get started! Follow these easy steps to create your own Strawberry Cream Cheese Crescent Braid:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your braid bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend until smooth. Then, gently fold in the sliced strawberries for that fruity goodness.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Open the can of crescent roll dough and unroll it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to keep the triangles connected to form a large rectangle. This will be the base for your braid.

Step 4: Cut the Dough

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, make diagonal cuts along both sides of the dough, about 1 inch apart. This will create the “braid” effect.

Step 5: Add the Filling

Spread the cream cheese and strawberry mixture down the center of the dough. Be careful not to overfill it, as you will need to fold the dough over the filling.

Step 6: Braid the Dough

Starting from one end, fold the strips of dough over the filling, alternating sides to create a braid. Pinch the ends to seal them well.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash

Brush the top of the braid with beaten egg. This will give it a beautiful golden color as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the braid from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information

This delightful treat is not only delicious but also brings a bit of joy to your day. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Sugar: 8g

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten this recipe up, consider these alternatives:

• Use low-fat cream cheese instead of regular.
• Swap fresh strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries.
• Try using whole wheat crescent dough for a healthier twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Crescent Braid is fantastic on its own. However, you can elevate it with some of these serving suggestions:

• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an indulgent touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best chefs make mistakes! Here are some common pitfalls to avoid while making your braid:

• Overfilling the dough can lead to messy results. Keep it modest!
• Not sealing the dough properly may cause the filling to ooze out while baking.
• Skipping the egg wash will result in a less golden and flaky finish.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store your delicious braid:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before serving.
• Freezing is an option, too! Wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Making this Strawberry Cream Cheese Crescent Braid is not just about baking; it’s about creating memories with your family. It’s a recipe that brings joy, laughter, and delicious flavors to the table. So gather your loved ones and enjoy this indulgent treat together!

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and dough ahead of time. Assemble the braid and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can use mascarpone cheese or even Greek yogurt for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Strawberry Cream Cheese Crescent Braid as much as I do. Remember, cooking is all about creativity, love, and a pinch of fun! If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy baking!

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