There’s nothing quite like the delicate layers and buttery goodness of a perfectly baked Danish pastry. When topped with creamy cheese and sweet cherry pie filling, these pastries become an irresistible treat. Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes are a delightful combination of flaky puff pastry, creamy filling, and luscious cherries, making them a perfect indulgence for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to create these delicious Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes. From preparing the puff pastry to making the cream cheese filling and adding the cherry topping, you’ll find all the tips and tricks needed to ensure your pastries turn out perfectly every time. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, promising a dessert that will be loved by all.
Ingredients Breakdown
To achieve the perfect Cherry Cream Cheese Danish, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients and understand their roles in the recipe.
Main Ingredients:
- Pastries:
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed according to package directions: Provides the flaky, buttery base for the pastries.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: Enhances the flavor with a subtle almond note.
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling: Adds a sweet and tangy topping.
- Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg, room temperature: Helps create a golden, glossy finish on the pastry.
- 1 tablespoon water: Thins the egg wash for easier application.
- Topping:
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting: Adds a final touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pastries
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside. This will prevent the pastries from sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Lay the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut each sheet into 6 equal-sized rectangles. You will have a total of 12 rectangles, each about 4½x3 inches in size.
- Arrange the Pastries: Arrange the puff pastry rectangles evenly on the lined baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between each pastry to allow for expansion as they bake.
- Poke Holes in the Pastry: Use a fork to poke a few holes into the middle of each pastry rectangle, leaving about a ½-inch perimeter around the edge. This step ensures that the center of the pastry stays low and holds the filling while the edges puff up beautifully.
Making the Cream Cheese Filling
- Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, stir together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
- Add the Filling to the Pastries: Spread a heaping tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each puff pastry rectangle, staying within the ½-inch border you created earlier.
Adding the Cherry Topping
- Top with Cherry Filling: Spoon about 2 heaping tablespoons of cherry pie filling over the cream cheese mixture on each pastry. Make sure to distribute the cherries evenly to ensure each bite is filled with sweet cherry goodness.
Preparing the Egg Wash
- Mix the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon of water. This egg wash will give the pastries a beautiful golden color and a glossy finish.
- Brush the Edges: Using a pastry brush, apply the egg wash to the outside edges of each pastry. This helps the edges turn golden brown and adds a nice shine.
Baking the Pastries
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
- Cool and Dust with Sugar: Remove the pastries from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Once cooled, dust with confectioners’ sugar for a final touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes are versatile and can be enjoyed in various settings. Here are a few serving suggestions to make your dessert experience even more delightful:
- Classic Presentation: Serve the pastries on a decorative platter, allowing the layers of puff pastry, cream cheese, and cherry filling to shine.
- Add Fresh Fruit: Garnish with fresh cherries or other seasonal fruits for a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a Danish with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy, comforting treat.
- Holiday Touch: Decorate the pastries with festive sprinkles or edible glitter for special occasions and holidays.
- Serve Warm or Cold: These pastries are delicious both warm and cold, making them a versatile treat for any time of day.
Tips for Perfect Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes
- Thaw Puff Pastry Properly: Follow the package directions to thaw the puff pastry sheets. They should be cold but pliable for easy handling and best results.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature before you begin. This helps it blend more smoothly and results in a better texture.
- Proper Mixing: Mix the cream cheese, sugar, and almond extract until smooth to ensure an even filling.
- Even Distribution: Spread the cream cheese and cherry filling evenly on each pastry to ensure every bite has a perfect balance of flavors.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pastries as they bake to prevent over-browning. They should be golden brown and puffed when done.
Customizing Your Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes
One of the joys of making homemade pastries is the ability to customize them to your taste. Here are a few ideas for variations and additions:
- Different Fruits: Use other fruit fillings, such as blueberry, raspberry, or apple, for a different flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, over the cherry filling for added crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Healthy Twist: Use a reduced-fat cream cheese and a light pie filling for a slightly healthier version.
Nutritional Information
For those mindful of their dietary intake, here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving (approximately 1 Danish):
- Calories: 300kcal
Keep in mind that the nutritional values may vary based on the exact quantities and brands of ingredients used.
Conclusion
Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the buttery goodness of puff pastry with the creamy richness of cream cheese and the sweet tanginess of cherry pie filling. Perfect for any occasion, these pastries are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
By following the detailed steps and tips provided in this guide, you can create Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes that are perfect every time. Whether you’re making them for a family breakfast, a holiday feast, or simply as a treat for yourself, these pastries are sure to impress and satisfy.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for something sweet and comforting, give this Cherry Cream Cheese Danish recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll have a delicious dessert to share with friends and family.
Happy baking!