Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Make the Choux Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil.
Remove from heat, then quickly stir in flour all at once. Stir until a dough ball forms.
Return to low heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to dry the dough slightly.
Let cool for about 5 minutes.
Beat in eggs, one at a time, until the dough becomes smooth, glossy, and pipeable.
Spoon or pipe small mounds (about 1½ inches wide) onto the baking sheet.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.
Cool completely on a wire rack before filling.

Step 2 – Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and airy.

Step 3 – Assemble the Bites

Slice each cooled puff horizontally in half.
Pipe or spoon a dollop of filling onto the bottom half.
Place 2–3 raspberries on top of the filling.
Cap with the top half of the pastry shell.
Just before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar for that elegant finish.

Tips for Success

Let the dough cool slightly before adding eggs — too hot and they’ll scramble!
Don’t open the oven door while baking; it can cause the puffs to collapse.
Use a piping bag for perfectly uniform shapes.
Bake the shells ahead and freeze them unfilled for up to 2 months.
For a bright twist, fold lemon zest into the cream filling.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries?
Fresh is best for texture and presentation, but if you use frozen, thaw and drain them well first.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake and freeze the puffs ahead. Fill them a few hours before serving for best texture.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep filled puffs refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed within 24 hours.

Flavor Variations

Strawberry Cream Cheese Bites: Swap raspberries for diced strawberries.
Lemon Blueberry Bites: Add lemon zest to the filling and top with fresh blueberries.
Chocolate Raspberry Bites: Drizzle the tops with melted dark chocolate.
Tropical Twist: Add a splash of coconut extract to the filling and top with a slice of mango.

Serving Suggestions

These elegant bites fit right in with:

A brunch or bridal shower spread
Afternoon tea service with delicate cups and saucers
A Valentine’s or Mother’s Day dessert tray
Any event where you want a touch of class and color!

Pair them with sparkling rosé, coffee, or a light herbal tea for the ultimate indulgence.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Unfilled shells: Store in an airtight container for 3 days or freeze up to 2 months. Re-crisp in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes before filling.
Filled bites: Keep refrigerated up to 2 days.
Avoid freezing filled puffs, as the filling texture will change.

Final Thoughts

Raspberry Cream Cheese Bites are the kind of dessert that make any occasion feel special. Crisp on the outside, creamy inside, and kissed with the tart sweetness of fresh raspberries — they’re elegant, nostalgic, and impossible to resist.

Whether you’re hosting guests or baking just for joy, these airy little puffs will always leave people smiling (and reaching for seconds!). 💕