Description
This Easy Cherry Cheese Danish recipe combines flaky puff pastry with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese filling and luscious cherry pie filling, making a delightful pastry that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Simple to prepare and bake, it’s a delicious treat that offers a perfect balance of flaky texture and fruity sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Danish:
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cherry pie filling
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Cut the sheet of puff pastry into 4 equal squares. Make small cuts at each corner of the squares to allow folding later.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Danishes: Spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each puff pastry square. Then, add a spoonful of cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Fold and Seal: Lightly dampen the edges of the pastry squares with water. Fold the corners inward toward the center, creating a sealed pocket around the fillings.
- Bake: Place the assembled danishes on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Allow the danishes to cool slightly. Before serving, dust the tops with powdered sugar for an attractive and sweet finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Cherry pie filling can be substituted with other fruit preserves or pie fillings, such as blueberry or raspberry.
- Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- For a crispier bottom crust, bake on a preheated baking stone if available.
