Puff Pastry Braid

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400 ºF

Step 2

Mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla until well blended. I just used a fork and a small bowl.

Step 3

Unfold one pastry sheet onto your lined cookie sheet. Line with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. I didn't roll it out, but you can if you want it a little bigger.

Step 4

Cut 1-inch strips from the center out along each side. If you want to create a folding notch, trim off the top and bottom strips.

Step 5

Smear cream cheese mixture evenly on the middle section only.

Step 6

Add your fruit choice or jam, or pie filling to the top of the cream cheese.

Step 7

Fold the notches up and over the center, then fold each strip over the fruit, overlapping and alternating, creating a braid.

Step 8

Create an egg wash by adding 1 tablespoon water to an egg and beat. Using a pastry brush, paint on a light coat covering over the pastry.

Step 9

Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.