Description

There’s nothing better than a Cherry Cheese Danish to start your morning or enjoy as an afternoon treat! With a flaky, buttery pastry, sweet cream cheese filling, and juicy cherry topping, this homemade Danish is as delicious as any bakery version. Plus, it’s easy to make using store-bought puff pastry for a hassle-free treat!

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Danish

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed – The secret to a light, flaky texture.
4 oz cream cheese, softened – Adds a creamy, tangy richness.
3 tbsp powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling.
½ tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
½ cup cherry pie filling – The star of the show!
1 egg, beaten – For an egg wash to give the pastry a golden shine.
1 tbsp milk – Helps thin out the egg wash for even brushing.

For the Glaze (Optional but Recommended!)

½ cup powdered sugar – The base of a sweet drizzle.
1 tbsp milk – To create a smooth glaze.
½ tsp vanilla extract – Adds a hint of warmth.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Unroll the thawed puff pastry and cut it into four equal rectangles.
Use a knife to lightly score a ½-inch border around each rectangle (don’t cut all the way through). This helps the edges puff up while baking.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Danish

Spread a tablespoon of cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry, staying inside the scored border.
Spoon a tablespoon of cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese mixture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to make an egg wash.
Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash for a golden, shiny crust.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.

Step 5: Make the Glaze & Serve

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the slightly cooled Danish for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Don’t Overload the Filling – Too much filling can spill out while baking.
Chill Before Baking – If the pastry gets too warm, chill it in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking for a flakier result.
Try Different Fillings – Swap cherries for blueberries, raspberries, or apple pie filling.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Cuisine: American