
Cherry Cream Cheese Danish Pastries: A Decadent and Easy Delight
Introduction
Craving a sweet and decadent pastry that’s perfect for any occasion? These Cherry Cream Cheese Danish Pastries are a delightful treat that will elevate your breakfast or dessert table. Made with buttery puff pastry, smooth cream cheese filling, and a sweet cherry topping, these pastries offer a wonderful combination of textures and flavors. They are quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy morning, these danishes are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1/2 cup cherry preserves or cherry jam
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll Out the Pastry: Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Gently roll the pastry to smooth out any creases. Cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred size for the danishes. Aim for about 4-5 pieces per sheet of puff pastry.
- Score the Edges: Using a knife, score a small border around each square, roughly 1/2 inch from the edges. This will help the edges puff up during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Danishes
- Fill the Pastry: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square.
- Add Cherry Topping: Spoon a teaspoon of cherry preserves or jam over the cream cheese filling. This adds a burst of fruity sweetness to each bite.
- Fold the Edges: Gently fold the edges of the pastry towards the center, leaving the filling exposed in the middle. This will create the signature danish shape.
Step 4: Apply Egg Wash and Bake
- Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the edges of each pastry for a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake: Arrange the assembled danishes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the pastry turns golden brown and puffy.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Cool and Serve: Let the danishes cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. For an extra touch of sweetness, dust them with powdered sugar before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success
- Puff Pastry Handling: Keep the puff pastry cold before baking to ensure it puffs up properly in the oven.
- Flavor Variations: Switch up the fruit topping based on your preference. Try raspberry, blueberry, or apricot preserves for a new flavor combination.
- Make-Ahead Tip: The cream cheese filling and cherry topping can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated. Assemble the danishes and bake them when ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes are made with store-bought puff pastry, which simplifies the process and reduces prep time.
- Perfect Combination of Flavors: The creamy filling, flaky pastry, and sweet cherry topping create a delicious balance that’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
- Versatile: These pastries are great for any occasion, whether it’s a casual breakfast, brunch with friends, or a special dessert for a celebration.
Conclusion
These Cherry Cream Cheese Danish Pastries are the ideal combination of sweet, creamy, and flaky, making them a perfect choice for a treat that feels indulgent but is easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a pastry that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. Whether for a holiday, a gathering, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these danishes are sure to be a hit. Try this simple yet delicious recipe today!