
Delicious Cherry Cream Cheese Danish: A Simple Yet Elegant Pastry
Introduction
Looking for a delightful treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or afternoon tea? These Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes are just what you need! Made with flaky puff pastry, a rich and creamy cream cheese filling, and topped with a sweet cherry compote, these danishes offer the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. They are simple to make, yet they look and taste elegant enough for any special occasion. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
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: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Roll Out the Puff Pastry: Unfold the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the pastry to smooth out any creases. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred size for the danishes (about 4-5 pieces per sheet).
- Shape the Pastries: Use a sharp knife to score a border about 1/2 inch from the edges of each square, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will help create a nice puffed edge when baking.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk together until smooth and creamy. This will form the base of your delicious cream cheese filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Danishes
- Fill the Pastry: Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each puff pastry square. Be careful not to overfill.
- Add the Cherry Topping: Spoon a teaspoon of cherry preserves or jam on top of the cream cheese mixture. This will add a sweet, fruity burst to the danishes.
- Fold the Pastry: Gently fold the edges of the puff pastry inward to create a little border around the filling, leaving the center exposed.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
- Egg Wash: Lightly beat the egg and brush it over the edges of the puff pastry to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the assembled danishes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffy.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the danishes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar for a little extra sweetness, if desired, and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Puff Pastry Tip: If you want extra flaky danishes, be sure not to overwork the puff pastry when handling it. Keep it as cold as possible before baking.
- Flavor Variations: You can switch up the fruit topping to suit your taste. Try using raspberry, blueberry, or apricot preserves for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cream cheese filling and fruit topping in advance and store them in the fridge. Assemble the danishes and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Elegance: These Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes look impressive, but they are incredibly easy to make, thanks to the use of store-bought puff pastry.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The tangy cream cheese, sweet fruit topping, and flaky pastry create a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
- Customizable: You can easily switch the fruit topping to suit your preferences, making this recipe versatile for any occasion.
Conclusion
These Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes are the perfect addition to your breakfast or brunch table. With their buttery, flaky pastry and creamy, sweet filling, they make for an indulgent and satisfying treat. Whether you’re hosting a special event or just enjoying a quiet morning at home, these danishes are sure to impress. Try this easy recipe and savor the delightful combination of cream cheese and cherry in every bite!