
Homemade Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes: A Decadent Pastry Delight
Introduction
If you’re in the mood for something indulgent and irresistibly delicious, look no further than these Homemade Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes! These flaky, buttery pastries are filled with a smooth cream cheese mixture and topped with a sweet cherry compote. The contrast of rich cream cheese and tangy cherries will make every bite a treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these danishes are simple to make yet look and taste like they came from your favorite bakery. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, these danishes are sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
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 jam
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Roll and Cut the Pastry: Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to smooth out any creases, then cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred size for the danishes (4-5 pieces per sheet).
- Score the Pastry: Use a knife to score a border around each square, about 1/2 inch from the edges. This will allow the pastry to puff up nicely around the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- Mix the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Beat until smooth and creamy, creating a rich filling for the danishes.
Step 3: Assemble the Danishes
- Fill the Pastry: Spoon a small amount of the cream cheese filling into the center of each puff pastry square.
- Top with Cherry Jam: Add a teaspoon of cherry preserves or jam on top of the cream cheese filling. This will create the perfect sweet and tart contrast.
- Shape the Pastry: Carefully fold the edges of the puff pastry toward the center, creating a little border around the filling.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the edges of each pastry to achieve a golden, glossy finish once baked.
- Bake the Danishes: Arrange the danishes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the danishes to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Success
- Puff Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry stays cold during preparation for the best puff and flakiness. Avoid overworking the dough.
- Flavor Variations: Swap the cherry topping for raspberry, blueberry, or even apricot jam for a different flavor twist.
- Make Ahead: The cream cheese filling and fruit topping can be made in advance and refrigerated, making this recipe even quicker when you’re ready to assemble the danishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe uses store-bought puff pastry to save time without compromising flavor, making it a great option for busy mornings or entertaining.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The rich cream cheese filling and sweet cherry topping create a perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors that everyone will love.
- Customizable: You can easily swap the fruit topping to suit your taste or to match what’s in season.
Conclusion
These Homemade Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes are an irresistible pastry treat that everyone will enjoy. With flaky, buttery pastry, smooth cream cheese filling, and a burst of cherry sweetness, they are a delightful addition to any table. Whether you’re hosting brunch, looking for a breakfast treat, or need a simple yet delicious dessert, this recipe will surely impress. Try making these danishes for your next occasion and watch as everyone devours them!