Cherry Cheese Danish

Introduction

There’s something about the combination of flaky puff pastry, smooth cream cheese, and sweet cherry topping that makes Cherry Cheese Danishes a timeless favorite. I recently made this recipe for a family brunch, and it was an immediate hit. The danishes disappeared within minutes, and I was asked to make a second batch almost immediately. The light, buttery puff pastry pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese filling, while the cherry topping adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color. Whether served for a weekend breakfast, a special occasion, or as a simple snack, these danishes are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re so easy to make, and yet they feel like a special treat every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Cherry Cheese Danish

These Cherry Cheese Danishes are the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, with a buttery, flaky pastry, creamy cheese filling, and a fruity cherry topping. Here’s why you’ll love making these danishes:

• Flaky, Buttery Pastry: The puff pastry forms the perfect base—crispy on the outside and light and airy inside, creating the ideal texture that contrasts perfectly with the rich filling.
• Sweet, Creamy Cheese Filling: The smooth cream cheese filling is sweetened just enough, and the ricotta adds an extra layer of creaminess. The almond extract (or vanilla) gives it a subtle warmth that makes it truly irresistible.
• Topped with Sweet Cherries: The canned cherry pie filling is a simple yet delightful topping that brings both flavor and visual appeal to the danishes.
• Simple to Make: Despite how impressive these danishes look, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare. Using store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe fast and convenient, and the filling comes together in minutes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a gathering with friends, or just a treat for yourself, these danishes are perfect for any occasion. They are easy to serve, and everyone loves them!

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Ingredients

For the Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon ricotta cheese
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract)
• Pinch of salt
• ½ tablespoon lemon zest

For the Pastry:

• 2 sheets puff pastry (1 box), thawed
• Flour (for dusting)

For the Topping:

• 1 can cherry pie filling

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sugar using an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add the egg yolk, ricotta cheese, almond extract (or vanilla extract), salt, and lemon zest. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the cheese filling mixture until you’re ready to assemble the danishes. This helps the filling firm up slightly and makes it easier to work with.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Lightly dust your work surface with flour to prevent the puff pastry from sticking. Unroll the sheets of thawed puff pastry and smooth out the edges slightly with a rolling pin to make them uniform.
3. Cut each sheet of puff pastry into 9 equal squares (you should have a total of 18 squares). This is the size you’ll use for the individual danishes.

Step 3: Assemble the Danishes

1. Place the puff pastry squares on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly apart to allow room for puffing up while baking.
2. Using the back of a spoon or your fingers, press down in the center of each puff pastry square to create a slight indentation. This will hold the cheese filling and prevent the puff pastry from rising too much in the center.
3. Add about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling into the center of each square.
4. Spoon a small amount of cherry pie filling (about 1–2 cherries and a little syrup) on top of the cheese filling.

Step 4: Add the Egg Wash

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash.
2. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash to give them a golden, glossy finish as they bake.

Step 5: Bake the Danishes

1. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and fully puffed up.
2. Remove from the oven and let the danishes cool slightly on a wire rack. The cheese filling will be soft, so allow them to set before serving.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 danish
• Calories: 230 kcal
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Note: These values are approximate and based on using standard ingredients.

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Preparation Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

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How to Serve

Cherry Cheese Danishes can be served in a variety of ways:

• Brunch or Breakfast: Serve these danishes with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a sweet, satisfying start to the day. Add some fresh fruit on the side for a complete meal.
• Dessert: These danishes make for a lovely dessert to serve after dinner. Their sweet, creamy filling and fruity topping pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Snack: Enjoy them as a mid-day snack or as an indulgent treat with a glass of milk.
• Gift Idea: Pack these danishes in a gift box to give as a homemade treat during the holidays or for birthdays. They’re sure to impress!

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Additional Tips

1. Customize the Filling: If you don’t like almond extract, you can use vanilla extract for a more neutral flavor. You could also add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cheese filling for an extra zing.
2. Fresh Fruit Option: If you want to use fresh fruit instead of canned pie filling, you can top the danishes with fresh cherries, blueberries, or even raspberries. Just make sure to sweeten the fruit slightly if needed.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the cheese filling and puff pastry squares ahead of time. Assemble the danishes and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes it easier to have fresh danishes on hand when guests arrive.
4. Egg Wash: For an even glossier finish, you can use a mixture of heavy cream and egg wash for the edges of the puff pastry.
5. Storage: These danishes are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 4 days and reheat in the oven.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?
Yes, homemade puff pastry will work well if you prefer to make it from scratch. Just make sure it’s chilled before working with it.

2. Can I make these danishes vegan?
You can make a vegan version by using plant-based cream cheese, egg replacer, and vegan puff pastry.

3. Can I freeze Cherry Cheese Danishes?
Yes, you can freeze these danishes before baking. Assemble them and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

4. How can I make the pastry even flakier?
Make sure the puff pastry is cold before baking, and don’t over-handle it to maintain its flaky texture.

5. Can I use a different type of fruit topping?
Definitely! Feel free to use any fruit filling, such as blueberry, raspberry, or apple. Just make sure the fruit is sweetened to balance the cheese filling.

6. Can I make these danishes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them the night before and refrigerate the assembled danishes. Simply bake them fresh in the morning for a hot and delicious breakfast.

7. How do I know when the danishes are done?
The danishes are done when the puff pastry is golden brown and fully puffed. The cheese filling should also be set, but soft.

8. Can I use a different extract for the cheese filling?
Absolutely! Vanilla, lemon, or orange extract would all work wonderfully in this recipe.

9. How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 18 small danishes (9 squares per sheet of puff pastry), making it perfect for a brunch or party.

10. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Be sure to press down the center of the puff pastry to create a well before adding the filling. This will help prevent the cheese from spilling over.

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Conclusion

These Cherry Cheese Danishes are a delightful combination of sweet and savory, with a flaky pastry and creamy filling that everyone will love

. They’re simple to make, require just a few ingredients, and always turn out beautifully. Whether you’re making them for a special brunch, as a snack, or as a dessert, they’re sure to impress. With a golden, buttery finish and a sweet cherry topping, these danishes are a classic treat that never goes out of style. Happy baking!

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