Cherry Cream Cheese Danish: A Sweet Delight for Any Occasion
Ingredients for Cherry Cream Cheese Danish
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (or your favorite fruit filling)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
How to Make Cherry Cream Cheese Danish
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into squares (about 4x4 inches).
- Create a Border: For each square, use a sharp knife to lightly score a smaller square inside the first, about 1/2 inch from the edge. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
Step 4: Assemble the Danishes
- Fill with Cream Cheese: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square.
- Add Cherry Filling: Top the cream cheese with a spoonful of cherry pie filling.
- Fold and Seal: Gently fold the corners of the outer square towards the center, pinching the edges to seal. You can also leave the corners open for a more rustic look.
Step 5: Bake
- Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the danishes with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake: Place the danishes on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool: Once baked, remove the danishes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy these delectable pastries warm for the best flavor!
