Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

from insanelygoodrecipes.com
40 min

Treat yourself to a true delight with this Cherry Cream Cheese Danish! With a flaky pastry and sweet, fruity filling, it's irresistible!

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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 8

    Remove the pastries from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool for 10–15 minutes.

  9. 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. 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. 11

    Serve the pastries warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea. Enjoy!