Cream Cheese Strudels

I made these delicious treats a few weeks ago when we were going to my sister and brother-in-law's for the evening.  They were sooooo yummy, so I thought I'd share the recipe with you! 

Cream Cheese Strudels

FILLING

All-purpose flour    2 tbsp.

Granulated sugar    2 tbsp.

Block of cream cheese, softened  4 oz.

Lemon juice         1 tsp.

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Package of frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions 14 oz/397 g.

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Mixed berry spread or jam   1/4 cup

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Large egg, fork beaten

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Sanding (decorating) sugar  1 tbsp

(or granulated sugar)

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Combine flour and sugar in small cup.

Beat cream cheese and lemon juice in small bowl until smooth.  Add flour mixture. Beat well.  Chill for 1 hour. 

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Roll out 1/2 of pastry on lightly floured surface to 6 x 12 inch rectangle.

 Spread pastry with 2 tbsp of berry spread, leaving 1 inch border on short ends and on long side farthest from you.

Spoon 1/2 of filling in dabs, over berry spread along closest long side.  

Brush expose pastry with egg.

Roll up, jelly roll-style, starting with closest long side.  Pinch side edges together to seal.  Place, seam-side down, on lightly grease or parchment (not waxed) paper-lined baking sheet.

Brush roll with egg.

Using sharp knife, cut slits across top at 1 1/2 inch intervals, down to filling layer.  Sprinkle with 1 1/2 tsp sanding sugar. 

Repeat with remaining pastry, berry spread, filling, and sanding sugar.

Bake in 400 F oven for about 25 minutes until puffed and golden.  Remove to wire rack to cool. Cut each roll into 3 slices. 

Serves 6

NOTE: These are very rich and fairly heavy.  You could easily cut down on the cream cheese, and then you would be able to enjoy the jam and pastry a little more, if you so desire!
You can also make these in any flavor, just exchange the filling for a different type of jam, or, my personal favorite, melted chocolate! :)