Indulge in the delightful combination of flaky puff pastry, creamy cheese filling, and sweet cherry topping with these homemade Cherry Cheese Danishes. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat, these pastries are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Utilizes store-bought puff pastry for convenience.
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of creamy cheese and sweet cherries is irresistible.
- Versatile: Suitable for various occasions, from casual breakfasts to special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tablespoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- Flour (for dusting)
- Pinch of salt
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets.
- Roll each sheet slightly to smooth out the folds and cut each into 6 equal rectangles, yielding 12 pieces total.
- Make the Cheese Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, lemon zest, almond extract, and egg yolk.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Danishes:
- Place the puff pastry rectangles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Using a knife, score a smaller rectangle inside each piece, about ½ inch from the edge, to create a border. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Dock the inner rectangle with a fork to prevent it from puffing up excessively.
- Spread a tablespoon of the cheese mixture within the inner rectangle of each pastry.
- Top the cheese mixture with a spoonful of cherry pie filling.
- Apply Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, beat the whole egg with a pinch of salt.
- Brush the edges of the pastries with the egg wash to promote a golden-brown finish.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 12 danishes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 35-38 minutes
Variations
- Fruit Fillings: Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry, apple, or raspberry fillings for different flavors.
- Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled danishes for added sweetness.
- Nut Topping: Sprinkle slivered almonds over the top before baking for a crunchy texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cooled danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore flakiness.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Yes, homemade puff pastry can be used, though it will increase the preparation time.
2. Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or omit it entirely, increasing the cream cheese by 1 tablespoon.
3. Can I make these danishes ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the danishes and refrigerate them overnight. Bake them fresh the next day.
4. How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
Ensure the cheese filling is not too runny and avoid overfilling with cherry pie filling.
5. Can I freeze the baked danishes?
Yes, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
6. What other extracts can I use besides almond?
Vanilla or lemon extract can be used for a different flavor profile.
7. Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes, cook fresh cherries with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a homemade filling.
8. How can I make the danishes sweeter?
Add a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after baking.
9. Do I need to thaw the puff pastry before using?
Yes, thaw the puff pastry according to package instructions before use.
10. Can I add a streusel topping?
Yes, a simple streusel made from flour, sugar, and butter can be sprinkled on top before baking.
Conclusion
These Cherry Cheese Danishes offer a delightful blend of flaky pastry,
Print
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 danishes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cherry Cheese Danishes are the perfect balance of flaky puff pastry, creamy cheese filling, and sweet cherry topping. Whether for brunch or a decadent breakfast treat, this easy homemade recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Danish Pastry:
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 1 can cherry pie filling
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 pinch salt
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon flour (for dusting)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheets.
- Cut each sheet into squares or circles, depending on your preferred shape.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, ricotta cheese, sugar, almond extract, lemon zest, and salt until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Danishes
- Place the puff pastry pieces onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Spoon 1 tablespoon of cream cheese filling into the center of each pastry.
- Top with a spoonful of cherry pie filling.
Step 4: Egg Wash & Bake
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 egg yolk to create an egg wash.
- Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- For extra crunch: Sprinkle with sliced almonds before baking.
- Drizzle with glaze: Mix ½ cup powdered sugar + 1 tablespoon milk for a simple icing drizzle.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Danish, Pastry
