Cherry Cream Cheese Danish
Ingredients
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry
thawed
- 8 oz cream cheese
softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 teaspoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- 2
Lightly flour your work surface and unfold the puff pastry sheets. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice each sheet into six equal rectangles. Arrange the rectangles on the prepared baking sheets. Leave at least 1 inch of space between them for expansion.
- 3
With a fork, poke several holes in the center of each pastry rectangle. Leave a ½-inch border around the edges untouched. This will allow the edges to puff while keeping the center flat for the filling.
- 4
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- 5
Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry, staying within the undocked border. Spoon 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Aim for a balance of cherries and sauce for the best texture and appearance.
- 6
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the exposed edges of the pastry rectangles with the egg wash. This will give the pastries a glossy, golden finish when baked.
- 7
Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through baking for even browning.
- 8
Remove the pastries from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool for 10–15 minutes.
- 9
While the pastries are cooling, make a simple glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired consistency. A drizzle-able glaze is ideal.
- 10
Once the pastries are slightly cooled (but still warm to the touch), drizzle the glaze over the top of each one. Use a spoon or a small piping bag for a decorative finish.
- 11
Serve the pastries warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea. Enjoy!
Cherry Cream Cheese Danish
Similar Recipes
Ratings & Reviews
Based on 1 rating
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a delightful bakery-style treat without a trip to the local patisserie? This Cherry Cream Cheese Danish recipe brings that irresistible experience right into your kitchen. With its perfect balance of tangy cherry and rich, creamy filling, nestled atop a wonderfully flaky pastry, it's a true indulgence for any time of day.
Why This Danish Works
The magic of this danish lies in the harmonious combination of convenience and classic flavors. Utilizing readily available frozen puff pastry ensures a beautifully flaky base with minimal effort, while the luscious cream cheese filling, enhanced with both vanilla and almond extracts, offers a nuanced depth that perfectly complements the sweet-tart cherry pie filling. This recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor impact with straightforward ingredients.
What to Expect
Prepare for a sensory delight that starts with the crisp, airy crackle of the golden-brown pastry giving way to a soft, creamy center. The filling offers a luxurious blend of sweet and subtly tangy cream cheese, brightened by the fruity burst of the cherry pie filling. A delicate, sweet vanilla glaze drizzled over the top adds a final touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish. Each bite is a symphony of textures and flavors – a truly irresistible treat that feels gourmet yet is approachable for the home baker.
Customization & Variations
This Cherry Cream Cheese Danish is exceptional as written, but you can easily tailor a few elements to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or even omit the almond extract from the cream cheese filling. For a thicker, richer glaze, experiment with using a slightly less milk or even a touch of heavy cream with the powdered sugar.
Serving & Context
This elegant Cherry Cream Cheese Danish is perfect for a special breakfast or brunch, a delightful afternoon coffee break, or as a decadent dessert. Serve it simply with a hot cup of coffee or tea, or alongside fresh fruit for a complete spread.