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Easy Apple Cream Cheese Strudel

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This Easy Apple Cream Cheese Strudel is a flaky, golden-brown pastry filled with sweet cinnamon-spiced apples and creamy cheesecake filling. Made with store-bought puff pastry, this simple yet elegant dessert is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat with coffee!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Strudel:

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 medium apple, peeled and finely diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp milk

For the Glaze (Optional):

  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.
  2. In another bowl, toss diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour.

Step 2: Assemble the Strudel

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the puff pastry slightly on a lightly floured surface.
  3. Spread the cream cheese mixture down the center, leaving about 1 inch on the edges.
  4. Top with the apple mixture, spreading evenly.

Step 3: Create the Braided Look

  1. Cut 1-inch strips on both sides of the pastry, leaving the center intact.
  2. Fold the strips over the filling in a crisscross pattern to create a braided effect.

Step 4: Bake

  1. In a small bowl, whisk egg and milk. Brush over the pastry for a golden finish.
  2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.

Step 5: Glaze & Serve

  1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze.
  2. Drizzle over the warm strudel, slice, and enjoy!


Notes

  • Apple Swap: Try pears or berries for a different fruit filling.
  • Extra Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 1 day, then bake fresh.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.