Cranberry Cream Cheese Pastry Braid / Air Fryer Dessert Recipe

cream cheese

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: ricotta cheese

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

cranberry sauce

🥗Healthier: homemade cranberry sauce

💰Cheaper: apple butter

Apple butter is often less expensive and provides a sweet flavor.

puff pastry

🥗Healthier: phyllo dough

💰Cheaper: store-bought pie crust

Store-bought pie crust is often cheaper and easier to work with.

walnuts

🥗Healthier: pecans

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds are a nut-free alternative that is often less expensive.

Preheat the air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.

Spread the cream cheese evenly over the center of the pastry.

Spoon the thickened cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer.

Sprinkle sugar and vanilla extract over the cranberry sauce.

Cut slits along the sides of the pastry, about 1 inch apart.

Fold the pastry strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a braid.

Brush the top with the beaten egg wash mixed with milk or water for a golden finish.

Place the braid in the air fryer basket and cook until golden brown, checking for doneness.

Let cool for a few minutes before drizzling with a glaze made from powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk or water.

Sprinkle with almond slices before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens