Name: Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette for Summer Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 package Prepared Shortcrust Pastry (Consider using homemade if time allows, but store-bought saves time.); 250 g Farmer's Cheese or Cream Cheese; 100 g Sugar (You can reduce this if preferred.); 2 large Eggs (Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla extract is recommended over imitation.); 1 tsp Lemon Zest (Use organic lemons to avoid pesticide residues.); 300 g Strawberries (Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.); 75 g Sugar (Adjust quantity based on fruit sweetness.); 1 tbsp Flour (All-purpose flour is recommended.)

As I pulled that golden-brown galette out of the oven, the sweet aroma of strawberries instantly transported me to sun-soaked summer picnics. This Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette is not just an easy dessert; it’s a delightful way to celebrate the season with its fresh fruit goodness and creamy texture. With quick prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is a perfect solution for anyone tired of fast food but craving something special. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself to a moment of indulgence, this galette promises to impress. Ready to create a dessert that brings a bit of summer sunshine to your table? Let’s dive into this deliciousness!

Why is this galette a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Finest: This Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette allows you to whip up a stunning dessert without complicated techniques.

Bursting with Flavor: The fresh strawberries paired with the creamy cheese filling create a wonderful balance that will delight your taste buds.

Versatility: Feel free to swap strawberries for other seasonal fruits or even try a savory version for a unique twist!

Quick Prep Time: Ideal for those busy summer days, you can go from prep to oven in just a few minutes.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you serve it at a gathering or enjoy it solo, this galette is sure to impress everyone who tries it.

It’s the perfect solution for anyone craving homemade goodness over fast food, just like our Jalapeno Pimento Cheese or Ranch Macaroni Cheese!

Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette Ingredients

For the Pastry
• Prepared Shortcrust Pastry – Provides the base structure; consider using homemade if time allows, but store-bought saves time.

For the Cream Cheese Layer
• Farmer’s Cheese or Cream Cheese (250g / 8oz) – Forms a creamy layer that complements the strawberries; substitute with full-fat cream cheese if farmer’s cheese is unavailable; for a tangier flavor, use farmer’s cheese.
• Sugar (100g / 1/2 cup) – Sweetens the cheese layer; you can reduce this if preferred.
• Eggs (2) – Binds the filling and provides richness; ensure eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds aromatic depth to the cheese filling; pure vanilla extract is recommended over imitation.
• Lemon Zest (1) – Introduces brightness to the flavors; use organic lemons to avoid pesticide residues.

For the Strawberry Filling
• Strawberries – Adds natural sweetness and freshness; use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor; other berries can be substituted.
• Sugar (75g / 1/3 cup) – Enhances the sweetness of strawberries; adjust quantity based on fruit sweetness.
• Flour (1 tbsp) – Helps absorb strawberry juices and thicken filling; all-purpose flour is recommended.

Now that you have these ingredients for your Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette, you’re all set to dive into a delightful summer dessert that embodies homemade goodness!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This crucial step ensures your Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette bakes evenly and develops that beautiful golden-brown color. While the oven heats, gather and prepare your ingredients for a smooth workflow.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a food processor, blend the farmer’s cheese or beat the cream cheese until creamy. Add one egg, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If you’re using cream cheese, feel free to mix everything by hand for a more rustic touch. This creamy layer will provide a wonderful base for your strawberries.

Step 3: Prep the Strawberries
Wash and slice your fresh strawberries, ensuring they are ripe and juicy for the best flavor. In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and flour to coat evenly. This mixture will enhance the sweetness and help absorb any extra moisture, preventing a soggy filling in your galette.

Step 4: Roll Out the Pastry
On a piece of parchment paper, roll out your prepared shortcrust pastry into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Aim for a slightly uneven edge for that rustic look. Transfer this pastry to your baking sheet, which will make it easier to place in the oven later.

Step 5: Assemble the Galette
Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the rolled-out pastry, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Carefully layer the strawberry mixture on top of the cream cheese filling, ensuring a single, even layer for optimal baking. This colorful layer will peek through the folds as your galette bakes.

Step 6: Fold the Pastry Edges
Gently fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, overlapping as necessary to create elegant pleats. This action adds to the rustic charm of your galette. Brush the exposed pastry with a beaten egg for a beautifully golden finish once baked, enhancing the visual appeal of your creation.

Step 7: Chill the Assembled Galette
Place the assembled galette in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes. This chilling period helps the pastry firm up, ensuring a flaky texture when baked. Meanwhile, the oven will finish heating, preparing for your delicious Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette.

Step 8: Bake the Galette
Bake the galette in your preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 180°C (350°F) and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. Watch for the pastry turning golden brown and the filling bubbling slightly, which signals that it’s done.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the galette from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about one hour. This cooling time allows the filling to set and enhances the flavors. Your Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette will be perfectly ready to serve once it’s slightly warm or at room temperature.

What to Serve with Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette

Dive into a delightful spread that complements the flavors of your galette and enhances your summer dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm galette, adding creaminess and a touch of sweetness that elevates each bite.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream provides a delightful contrast to the rich cream cheese layer, adding a fluffy, cloud-like texture.
Fresh Mint Leaves: Bright, aromatic mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also a refreshing burst of flavor, enhancing the galette’s strawberry sweetness.
Lemonade: A glass of freshly squeezed lemonade offers a tart and refreshing contrast, perfectly balancing the rich and creamy dessert.
Berry Compote: This warm, fruit-forward sauce packs an extra punch of flavors and colors, drizzled delicately over each slice.
Almond Croissant: For a luxurious brunch pairing, serve alongside an almond croissant; its buttery layers harmonize beautifully with the creamy galette.
Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine adds a festive touch, its effervescence cutting through the richness of the dessert and enhancing the overall enjoyment.
Chocolate Sauce: For an indulgent twist, drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce over the galette; its richness juxtaposes beautifully with the strawberries.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of brewed coffee or herbal tea rounds out your meal, highlighting the sweet and creamy elements of the dessert while adding a comforting note.

Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe, adding your own flair for a personalized dessert experience that delights the senses!

Fruit Substitutions: Replace strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or cherries for a delightful mix of flavors.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with ricotta or mascarpone instead of cream cheese for a lighter option with a creamy finish. Either way, the rich texture will still shine through.
Savory Twist: Use seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms with tangy feta for a unique savory galette. It’s a fun way to transition from sweet to savory while keeping that delightful rustic charm.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint to the cheese mixture for a refreshing twist. The bright herbal notes elevate the dish and create a stunning flavor contrast.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts on top of the strawberries before baking. They’ll add a lovely crunch and depth to your galette.
Flavor Boost: Enhance the cream cheese layer with a spoonful of lemon curd or sour cream for added tanginess. This will deepen the creamy texture and flavor.
Sweet Spice: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the strawberry filling for warmth and aromatic appeal. A hint of spice can transport your galette to a new level of indulgence.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent finish, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled galette before serving. It’s a tempting addition that makes for an irresistible dessert!.

As you embark on your galette-making adventure, remember, this recipe is just the beginning. Once you try this Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette, you might want to check out our delicious Red Velvet Cake or the refreshing Bake Strawberry Heaven to keep the summer vibes rolling!

Expert Tips for Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette

Choose Ripe Berries: Opt for juicy, ripe strawberries as they provide the best flavor. Avoid overripe or mushy berries to ensure a fresh taste.
Prevent Sogginess: Coat the strawberries with sugar and flour to absorb excess moisture. This step is essential to avoid a soggy filling in your galette.
Perfectly Flaky Crust: For a flakier pastry, chill the assembled galette for 20 minutes before baking. It enhances the texture and keeps the pastry from shrinking.
Mix with Care: If using cream cheese, blend until very smooth to avoid lumps. There’s nothing worse than a lumpy filling in your Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette!
Serving Temperature: Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience. Pair with whipped cream or ice cream for an elevated treat!
Adjust Sweetness: Taste your strawberries before adding sugar, and adjust the amount in the filling as needed for perfect sweetness.

Storage Tips for Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette

Fridge: Store your galette covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, wrap the cooled galette tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To restore the crispness, reheat slices in an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.

Serving Tip: Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, and consider adding a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy summer days! You can prepare the cream cheese filling and the strawberry mixture up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply store the cream cheese layer in an airtight container and refrigerate it, while the strawberries can be tossed with sugar and flour and kept in the fridge as well. Additionally, you can roll out the pastry and keep it in the fridge for a maximum of 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble the galette, chill it for about 20 minutes, and follow the baking instructions. This prep method ensures you maintain quality while enjoying a delicious dessert with minimal fuss!

Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting strawberries?
Absolutely! Choose ripe, juicy strawberries that are bright red with no dark spots or mushiness. Look for firm berries, as they will provide the best flavor and texture for your Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette.

How should I store leftovers?
Store your galette covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to keep it fresh. If you’ll enjoy it later, I often wrap my leftover galette in plastic wrap for added protection against drying out.

Can I freeze the Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette?
Yes! For freezing, allow the galette to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply unwrap and reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, allowing it to regain its crispness.

What if the filling turns out too runny?
Very! If you find your filling is too runny, there are a couple of tricks to prevent this. Make sure to thoroughly coat the strawberries in sugar and flour before adding them to the galette; this helps absorb excess juices. If it does runny post-bake, let it cool completely. As it sits, it will solidify and the flavors will meld beautifully.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To create a gluten-free Rustic Strawberry and Cream Cheese Galette, substitute the shortcrust pastry with a gluten-free option available at stores, or make your own using gluten-free all-purpose flour. The taste will still be delightful!

Is this dessert suitable for pets?
No, this galette contains ingredients like sugar and eggs that are not recommended for our furry friends. If you want to share a treat with your pet, consider giving them a small piece of plain strawberry without sugar, ensuring it is safe and healthy for them.