Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Utilizes store-bought puff pastry and canned cherry pie filling for minimal prep time.

• Versatile: Suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different fruit fillings or toppings.

• Impressive Presentation: Looks bakery-quality without the complexity.

• Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 17.3 ounces frozen puff pastry (1 box, 2 sheets)

• 6 ounces cream cheese

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract or 3 tablespoons bourbon

• 21 ounces cherry pie filling

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Unfold one sheet of puff pastry and cut it into four equal squares.

3. On each square, make cuts from each corner towards the center, stopping about ½ inch from the center.

4. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract (or bourbon) until smooth.

5. Place a teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each square.

6. Top the cream cheese with a small spoonful of cherry pie filling.

7. Fold every other corner of the pastry towards the center, pressing gently to seal.

8. Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry.

9. Bake for 12 minutes or until golden brown.

10. Remove from oven and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 danishes

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Fruit Fillings: Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry, apple, or strawberry pie filling.

• Glaze Topping: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk instead of dusting with powdered sugar.

• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking for added crunch.

• Savory Twist: Replace the sweet filling with herbed cream cheese and smoked salmon for a savory version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes, homemade puff pastry can be used, though it may require additional preparation time.

Is it possible to make these danishes ahead of time?

You can prepare the danishes up to the baking step and refrigerate them overnight. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the unbaked danishes?

Yes, assemble the danishes and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?

Any fruit pie filling, such as blueberry, apple, or strawberry, can be used as a substitute.

How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy?

Ensure the puff pastry is well-chilled before baking and avoid overfilling with cream cheese or fruit filling.

Can I add a glaze instead of powdered sugar?

Absolutely. Mix powdered sugar with a small amount of milk to create a glaze and drizzle over the cooled danishes.

Is it necessary to use full-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor, but low-fat versions can be used as a lighter alternative.

Can I make mini versions of these danishes?

Yes, cut the puff pastry into smaller squares and adjust the amount of filling accordingly.

How do I store leftover glaze?

Store any leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir before using.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Fresh cherries can be used, but they should be cooked down with sugar to create a filling consistency.

Conclusion

This Easy Cherry Cheese Danish recipe offers a delightful combination of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and sweet cherries, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Its simplicity and versatility ensure it will become a favorite in your baking repertoire.