Cherry Cream Cheese Danish Pastries: A Decadent and Easy Delight

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

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

  1. 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

  1. Fill the Pastry: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

  1. Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the edges of each pastry for a golden, glossy finish.
  2. 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

  1. 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!

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