As I stood in my kitchen savoring the sweet fragrance of ripe strawberries, it hit me—nothing says summer quite like a delightful Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette. This charming dessert cleverly melds the lusciousness of fresh berries with a creamy layer of cheese, all enveloped in a golden, flaky crust. Not only is it effortlessly simple to whip up, making it a perfect choice for those busy days when you crave something special, but it also celebrates the beauty of seasonal fruit in a way that’s downright irresistible. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual brunch or enjoying a sweet family dinner, this quick summer dessert is sure to impress. Curious about how to bring this sweet creation to life? Let’s dive in!
Why is this galette a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this galette gives you a taste of summer without the fuss.
Rich, Creamy Delight: The blend of juicy strawberries and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering partnership that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite berries or cheeses for a unique twist!
No Special Skills Required: Perfect for novice bakers, you’ll impress your family and friends with this stunning dessert.
Time-Saver: Using prepared pastry means you can create this galette in a fraction of the time, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones.
Elevate your summer dessert game today and pair it with a scoop of Pineapple Carrot Cream for a delightful finish!
Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette Ingredients
For the Pastry
- Prepared Shortcrust Pastry – A pre-made crust for ease of preparation; alternatively, whip up a homemade version for a personal touch.
For the Filling
- Strawberries (400g / 14oz) – Provides natural sweetness and vibrant color; opt for fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor.
- Sugar (75g / 1/3 cup for strawberries; 100g / 1/2 cup for cheese mixture) – Enhances sweetness; adjust according to taste, especially if your strawberries are tart.
- Flour (1 tbsp) – Acts as a thickener for the strawberry filling, preventing excess liquid from making your galette soggy.
- Farmer’s Cheese or Cream Cheese (250g / 8oz) – Adds creamy richness and slight tang; substitute with ricotta if you’re looking for a lighter option.
- Eggs (2) – Serve as a binder for the cheese layer and for glazing the pastry; essential for achieving that beautiful golden brown finish.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Imparts lovely flavor to the cheese mixture; always choose pure vanilla for the best taste.
- Lemon Zest (from 1 lemon) – Adds brightness and complexity; freshly grated zest delivers maximum aroma for an extra punch of flavor.
Dive into the irresistible joy of creating your very own Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures your Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette will have a perfectly golden crust. While the oven warms up, gather your baking sheet and parchment paper, ready to catch all those delightful flavors later on.
Step 2: Prepare Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, blend either farmer’s cheese or cream cheese with one egg, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. The creaminess will create a luxurious base for your galette, so set it aside while you prepare the strawberries.
Step 3: Prepare Strawberry Filling
Wash and slice around 400g (14oz) of fresh strawberries. In a separate bowl, gently toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and flour until they are well-coated. This step helps enhance the strawberries’ natural sweetness while preventing excess moisture in your Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette.
Step 4: Assemble Galette
Roll out your prepared shortcrust pastry on a piece of parchment paper until it reaches about a 12-inch diameter. Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly on the pastry, leaving about a 2-inch border. Layer the strawberry slices generously over the cheese, allowing the vibrant colors to shine through as you prepare for the next step.
Step 5: Fold the Pastry
Starting from one edge, gently fold the pastry over the filling, pinching the corners together to create a rustic shape. Brush the folded edges with the remaining beaten egg to give your Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette a beautiful golden brown finish.
Step 6: Chill & Bake
Chill the assembled galette in the fridge for about 20 minutes. This will help the pastry hold its shape while baking. After chilling, place it into the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes at 200°C (400°F). Then, reduce the temperature to 180°C (350°F) and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, until the crust is golden and flaky.
Step 7: Cooling
Once your Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette is beautifully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for one hour. This cooling time allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as you prepare to indulge in this summer treat!
Expert Tips for Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette
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Choose Fresh Strawberries: Ensure your strawberries are ripe and fragrant for the best flavor. Overripe or underripe berries can disrupt the balance of sweetness in your rustic strawberry and cream cheese galette.
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Avoid Excess Moisture: Always dry your strawberries thoroughly before mixing them with sugar and flour. This helps prevent a soggy crust and keeps the galette’s texture crisp and flaky.
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Perfectly Prepped Pastry: If using store-bought pastry, leave it at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling out. This makes it easier to work with and reduces cracking.
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Adjust Sweetness: Taste your strawberries and adjust the sugar accordingly, especially if they’re tart. This ensures you achieve the perfect balance of sweetness in your rustic strawberry and cream cheese galette.
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Serve Warm: For an extra treat, warm leftovers in the oven for about 10 minutes before serving. This enhances flavors and makes the crust irresistibly crispy again.
What to Serve with Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette
As you prepare to enjoy this delightful summer dessert, consider some tempting accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds an airy texture and a touch of sweetness that perfectly contrasts with the richness of the galette.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melting over warm galette creates a luxurious pairing—imagine the delightful warmth and chill on each bite!
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Balsamic Reduction: Drizzled over the galette, a balsamic reduction offers a tangy-sweet contrast, highlighting the strawberries’ natural flavors and adding an elegant touch.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing bite that balances the sweetness of the galette.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This bubbly drink’s citrus notes complement the lemon zest in the galette, making it a refreshing choice on a warm day.
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Herb-Infused Iced Tea: A glass of iced tea infused with herbs, like basil or rosemary, brings an aromatic touch, elevating the whole dessert experience.
Pair these delightful accompaniments with your Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette for a meal that’s sure to impress and evoke the essence of summer!
How to Store and Freeze Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette
Fridge: Store any uneaten rustic strawberry and cream cheese galette in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for another delightful dessert moment!
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the galette tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to 2 months. Bake it directly from the freezer for a quick treat when cravings strike!
Reheating: To enjoy your galette warm, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the galette on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This restores its flaky texture and delicious flavor.
Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette Variations
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect galette experience!
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Berry Medley: Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a delightful burst of flavors and colors in every bite.
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Creamy Twist: Substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a lighter, velvety texture that enhances the sweetness of the strawberries.
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Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of toasted almonds or hazelnuts on top before baking for a lovely crunch that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
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Herbed Infusion: Incorporate a hint of fresh mint or basil into the strawberry filling for a unique aromatic lift that captures the essence of summer.
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Savory Spin: Replace strawberries with grilled zucchini and goat cheese for a refreshing twist that transforms this galette into a tasty appetizer.
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Spiced Sugar: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg with your sugar, adding a cozy warmth that complements both strawberries and cream.
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Chocolate Delight: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the top before serving for a decadent finish that’s sure to impress!
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Lemon Zest Boost: Enhance flavors further by incorporating more lemon zest into both the cheese mixture and fruit filling for an extra zing.
With all these exciting options at hand, take your galette journey a step further and pair it with a scoop of Sweet Salty Strawberry for an unforgettable dessert experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette preparations are a dream for busy home cooks! You can prepare the cheese mixture—blending cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest—up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. The strawberries can also be sliced and tossed with sugar and flour, but do this no more than 12 hours ahead to prevent them from releasing excess moisture. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the galette as directed and chill it for 20 minutes before baking. This way, you’ll enjoy a fresh, fragrant dessert with minimal effort and maximum flavor on a busy day!
Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette Recipe FAQs
What type of strawberries should I use for the galette?
Absolutely, for the best flavor, always choose fresh, ripe strawberries. Look for berries that are vibrant in color and fragrant, avoiding those with dark spots or signs of mushiness. Ripe strawberries will lend natural sweetness to your galette, making it irresistibly delicious.
How should I store leftovers of the galette?
You can simply place any leftover rustic strawberry and cream cheese galette in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about 2 days. This way, you can enjoy this delightful dessert a little longer!
Can I freeze the galette? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your galette! To do this, let it cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, you can bake it directly from frozen—just add a little extra time to the cooking!
What if the filling is too runny? How can I fix it?
If you find your filling is too runny before baking, try adding an extra tablespoon of flour to the strawberry mixture. This will help absorb excess liquid and keep your crust from becoming soggy. Additionally, make sure your strawberries are fully dry after washing to avoid additional moisture.
Is this galette suitable for those with dairy allergies?
If you’re catering to dairy allergies, I recommend substituting traditional cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew or almond cream cheese. Just ensure to check for any additional ingredients that may contain dairy. Those creamy options can still give a lovely texture while keeping the galette allergy-friendly!
Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette for Easy Summer Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Gather your baking sheet and parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, blend farmer's cheese or cream cheese with one egg, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and fluffy.
- Wash and slice around 400g of fresh strawberries and toss them with sugar and flour until well-coated.
- Roll out your prepared shortcrust pastry on parchment paper until it reaches about a 12-inch diameter. Spread the cheese mixture on the pastry, leaving a 2-inch border. Layer strawberry slices over the cheese.
- Fold the pastry edges over the filling, pinching the corners together. Brush the folded edges with the remaining beaten egg.
- Chill the assembled galette in the fridge for 20 minutes. Bake for 10 minutes at 200°C, then reduce the temperature to 180°C (350°F) and continue baking for 30 minutes.
- Let it cool on a wire rack for one hour before serving.
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