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If you have been searching for a delightful treat that’s both impressive and incredibly simple to whip up, this Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with luscious cherry pie filling nestled atop a creamy, sweetened cream cheese center, all wrapped in flaky, golden puff pastry, it’s a dessert and breakfast star that will win over every palate. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weekend morning or surprising guests at brunch, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Choosing the right ingredients is key to nailing this Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role in delivering perfect texture and balanced flavor—from the buttery puff pastry that crisps to golden perfection, to the rich sweetness of the cream cheese mixture, and the vibrant burst of cherries that adds a jewel-like finish.
- Puff pastry sheet: The foundation of flakiness and structure, ready-made for effortless baking.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Provides the rich and silky filling that complements the tart cherries.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the cream cheese filling with just the right touch.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds warm, aromatic depth to the cheese filling.
- Cherry pie filling (½ cup): Brings juicy, vibrant bursts of fruitiness contrasting beautifully with the smooth cheese.
- Powdered sugar: For a delicate, snowy dusting that elevates presentation and sweetness.
How to Make Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s perfectly hot when your danishes go in. Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze — a small step that makes a big difference!
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unfold the puff pastry sheet and cut it into four equal squares. Making precise cuts at each corner allows for neat folding, which is essential to form those lovely pockets that hold your delicious fillings snugly.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This filling is what adds that luxurious texture and subtle sweetness that makes this recipe truly special.
Step 4: Assemble the Danishes
On each puff pastry square, spoon a generous dollop of the cream cheese filling right into the center. Then, top that with a heaping spoonful of cherry pie filling—the contrasting colors alone are enough to get your mouth watering!
Step 5: Fold and Seal
Dampen the edges of each pastry square lightly with water to help them stick. Fold the corners gently toward the center, creating a neat, sealed pocket that locks in all the delightful fillings.
Step 6: Bake
Place your assembled pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and a gorgeous golden brown. The scent escaping your oven at this point will have everyone eagerly waiting.
Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Let your freshly baked danishes cool slightly. Then, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for a delicate finish that adds just the right hint of extra sweetness and makes these pastries look as stunning as they taste.
How to Serve Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe
Garnishes
While powdered sugar is classic, you can also garnish your danishes with a few fresh cherries or a light drizzle of white chocolate or honey for extra flair. Adding a tiny sprig of mint can bring freshness and a pop of color that’s simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
This Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe shines when served alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it ideal for breakfast or brunch. For a fuller meal, pair with fresh fruit salad or a creamy yogurt to round out the flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your Danish on a decorative platter with a scattering of whole cherries or edible flowers for a festive touch. If you want to impress guests, serve each Danish with a small bowl of whipped cream or custard for dipping—it’s indulgence on another level!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any danishes left, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the puff pastry flaky and the filling fresh so you can enjoy second helpings without losing any charm.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked danishes assembled on the parchment-lined baking sheet for up to one month. Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to bake, pop them straight from freezer to oven, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Reheating
To revive the crispness, reheat leftover danishes in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the pastry soggy rather than delightfully flaky.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen puff pastry works perfectly—just thaw it according to package instructions before cutting and assembling your danishes to ensure easy handling and excellent puffiness.
Is it necessary to use cherry pie filling, or can I substitute fresh cherries?
Cherry pie filling is convenient and gives that classic flavor and texture, but if you prefer, fresh pitted cherries mixed with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to thicken can work beautifully too.
Can I make these danishes dairy-free?
You can try substituting the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and ensure your puff pastry is dairy-free. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly, but the essence remains delightful.
What is the best type of cream cheese to use?
Use regular, full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and best flavor. Softened cream cheese is easier to blend smoothly, so leaving it at room temperature before mixing is key.
How long do these danishes stay fresh after baking?
Freshly baked danishes are best enjoyed within the first day or two. They will maintain flavor and texture for up to 48 hours if stored properly, but puff pastry is always tastiest fresh from the oven.
Final Thoughts
Making this Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe is one of those kitchen joys that feels like a luxurious treat but is surprisingly simple to create. Every bite offers a perfect balance of flaky crust, creamy filling, and fruity sweetness. I encourage you to give it a try the next time you want to wow your friends, family, or just yourself with something special yet stress-free. Trust me, this Danish will become a beloved favorite!
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Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cherry Cheese Danish recipe combines flaky puff pastry with a creamy sweetened cream cheese filling and a luscious cherry topping. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a delightful dessert, these danishes are simple to assemble and bake to golden perfection in just minutes.
Ingredients
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 your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Cut the puff pastry sheet into 4 equal squares. Make small cuts at each corner of each square to create flaps that can be folded over the filling later.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Assemble the Danishes: Spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each puff pastry square. Top the cream cheese with a spoonful of cherry pie filling, ensuring it’s centered for balanced filling.
- Fold and Seal: Lightly dampen the edges of the pastry with water to help seal. Fold the corners of each puff pastry square toward the center, overlapping slightly to create a neat pocket that encloses the filling.
- Bake: Place the assembled danishes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up and golden brown, indicating it is perfectly cooked.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Allow the danishes to cool for a few minutes after baking. Once slightly cooled, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finish and added sweetness.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Use cold puff pastry for the best puff and rise during baking.
- Cherry pie filling can be substituted with blueberry or raspberry preserves if preferred.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
- These danishes can be frozen before baking; simply bake directly from frozen for a few extra minutes.
