Cream Cheese Cracker Pastries are a delightful fusion of savory and sweet. With a flaky base made from buttery crackers, a creamy cheese filling, and a touch of sweetness, these quick pastries are perfect for serving at brunch, as appetizers, or even a light dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pastries are incredibly simple to prepare yet deliver a rich, satisfying flavor. They combine the crisp texture of baked crackers with the smoothness of cream cheese, offering a unique twist on traditional pastry. They’re ideal for entertaining or as a quick treat when you need something elegant without much effort.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese
- Powdered sugar or honey
- Butter crackers (such as Ritz)
- Egg (for egg wash)
- Optional toppings: fruit jam, fresh berries, chopped nuts, or herbs
directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar or a touch of honey.
- Arrange crackers on a lined baking sheet.
- Spoon a dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each cracker.
- Brush edges of crackers lightly with egg wash.
- Add optional toppings such as jam or nuts.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are golden and the cheese is slightly puffed.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
Makes approximately 20 pastries. Prep time: 10 minutes. Baking time: 12 minutes. Total time: 22 minutes.
Variations
- Savory Version: Add chopped herbs and a pinch of salt to the cream cheese.
- Berry Bites: Top with blueberries or strawberries before baking.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, or refrigerate for 3 days. Reheat in a low oven for 5 minutes to crisp up the base.
FAQs
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes, but plain cream cheese gives you more control over the flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Assemble and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving.
Are they best served warm or cold?
They’re best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven.
Can I add fruit inside?
Yes, add a slice of fruit under the cheese before baking.
Do they get soggy?
They can soften over time, so serve shortly after baking for best texture.
Can I use different crackers?
Yes, use any sturdy butter-style cracker.
Is the egg wash necessary?
It adds a golden sheen but can be skipped if preferred.
Can I make a dessert platter with them?
Absolutely. Offer sweet and savory versions for variety.
Are they freezer-friendly?
Not recommended, as crackers may lose their crispness.
Can kids help make these?
Yes, it’s a fun and safe recipe for children to assist with.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Cracker Pastries are an elegant, easy-to-make treat that’s both versatile and delicious. Whether served sweet or savory, they’re a charming addition to any snack tray or brunch table.
PrintCream Cheese Cracker Pastries
Cream Cheese Cracker Pastries are bite-sized, flaky snacks featuring buttery crackers topped with sweetened cream cheese and optional garnishes. Perfect for brunch, entertaining, or a quick and elegant treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 20 pastries 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar or honey
- 20 butter crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: 1/4 cup fruit jam
- Optional: 1/4 cup fresh berries
- Optional: 2 tbsp chopped nuts
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar or honey until smooth.
- Arrange butter crackers on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spoon a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each cracker.
- Brush the edges of each cracker lightly with egg wash.
- Add desired toppings such as jam, berries, nuts, or herbs.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until crackers are golden and cheese is slightly puffed.
- Cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- For a savory twist, mix herbs and a pinch of salt into the cream cheese.
- Use flavored or whipped cream cheese for added variety.
- Best served fresh for crisp texture; avoid freezing.
- Great as part of a mixed sweet and savory appetizer platter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pastry
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg