Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe
If you have a soft spot for flaky pastries filled with luscious cream cheese and bursting cherry flavors, then this Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe is going to become your new best friend. It’s wonderfully simple yet irresistibly delicious, combining the buttery crispness of puff pastry with the creamy sweetness of a vanilla-kissed cream cheese filling and the vibrant pop of cherry pie filling. Whether you’re looking to impress guests during brunch or just craving a cozy homemade treat, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of texture and flavor every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe plays a key role, from creating that flaky, golden crust to adding the sweet and tangy layers of flavor. These basics are easy to find and come together quickly, making the preparation as delightful as the final bite.
- Puff pastry sheet: The foundation of the Danish, puff pastry gives a beautiful, flaky texture that’s essential for that bakery-style feel.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Provides a smooth, creamy center with a mild tang that balances perfectly with the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese filling just enough to enhance, never overpower, the flavors.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a warm, aromatic note that elevates the cream cheese mixture into something truly irresistible.
- Cherry pie filling (1/2 cup): Brings that festive, fruity burst of color and flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.
- Powdered sugar: A delicate dusting that finishes off each Danish with a pretty touch and extra sweetness.
How to Make Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
First thing’s first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key to getting that puff pastry crisp and golden. While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your Danishes from sticking and to make cleanup super easy.
Step 2: Shape the Puff Pastry
Roll out your puff pastry sheet and cut it into four even squares. Then, at each corner of every square, make small cuts — these will let you fold the pastry into a charming envelope that holds all the delicious fillings snugly.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
Softened cream cheese meets granulated sugar and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Whisk them together until you have a smooth, creamy, and dreamy filling. This mixture is what makes these Danishes feel indulgent but so easy to whip up.
Step 4: Assemble the Danishes
Place a generous spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry square, then top it with a spoonful of cherry pie filling. Seeing the vibrant red cherries over the creamy white filling is such a joyful sight and promises a bite full of flavor.
Step 5: Fold and Seal Your Pastries
Lightly moisten the edges of the pastry with water — this acts like glue to seal the corners. Fold each corner gently towards the center, wrapping the filling in a neat little pocket. This not only looks pretty but ensures nothing escapes during baking.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pop the assembled Danishes into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for that beautiful golden brown color which signals flaky pastry perfection and just-baked goodness.
Step 7: Final Touch — Powdered Sugar Dusting
Once out of the oven, let your Danishes cool just a bit so the filling sets. Then dust them lightly with powdered sugar for that classic, bakery-fresh finish that invites everyone to dig in.
How to Serve Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe
Garnishes
While the powdered sugar dusting is the classic finish, why not elevate your Danishes with a few fresh cherries on top, a sprinkle of toasted almonds, or even a drizzle of light vanilla glaze? These garnishes add a festive flair and an extra layer of texture.
Side Dishes
Pair these Danishes with a cup of fresh coffee or herbal tea for a cozy morning treat. If serving brunch, fresh fruit salads or a light green salad can complement the richness and add balance to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe on a pretty platter lined with doilies or parchment paper for a charming visual. You can also serve each Danish in a small, decorative paper muffin cup for easy handling and a delightful presentation that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep the puff pastry as crisp as possible, avoid refrigerating unless your kitchen is very warm or humid. If refrigerated, bring back to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze these assembled but unbaked Danishes. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftover Danishes in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back that lovely flaky texture far better than a microwave, which can make puff pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen puff pastry works wonderfully here. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before you start assembling to prevent it from tearing and to ensure even baking.
Is it possible to substitute the cherry pie filling with fresh cherries?
While fresh cherries can be delightful, they lack the syrupy sweetness and texture of pie filling. If using fresh, consider cooking them down with a bit of sugar to create a thick compote that will hold up during baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and ensure your puff pastry is dairy-free. Most puff pastries contain butter, so look for vegan-specific versions to keep this dish fully plant-based.
How long does it take to prepare this Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe?
The whole process is surprisingly quick — about 8 minutes of active prep plus baking time. It’s perfect for those moments when you want a homemade pastry without hours in the kitchen.
Can I add other fruits instead of cherries?
Definitely. Blueberry, raspberry, or even peach pie fillings would all be fantastic alternatives. The key is using a filling that is thick and sweet enough to complement the cream cheese without making the pastry soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe is truly a joyful little indulgence you can whip up with minimal fuss but maximum flavor. Perfect for weekday breakfasts, brunch parties, or any time you want to feel a little fancy at home, it’s one of those recipes that feels elevated yet surprisingly approachable. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how this simple collection of ingredients transforms into a flaky, creamy, fruity delight that’s sure to brighten your day.
Print
Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cherry Cheese Danish recipe combines flaky puff pastry with a creamy sweetened cream cheese filling and luscious cherry pie filling to create a delightful dessert or breakfast pastry. Simple to assemble and bake, it’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a homemade bakery-style Danish in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Danish:
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cherry pie filling
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Cut the sheet of puff pastry into 4 equal squares. At each corner of every square, make small cuts to allow the corners to fold neatly over the filling later.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Assemble the Danishes: Spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each puff pastry square, then top it with a spoonful of cherry pie filling, distributing evenly.
- Fold and Seal: Lightly dampen the edges of each pastry square with water to help seal. Fold the corners inward towards the center to create a pocket that encases the filling snugly.
- Bake: Place the assembled pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Remove the Danish from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
- Cherry pie filling can be substituted with other fruit preserves or fresh berries if preferred.
- Do not overfill the pastry to prevent leaking during baking.
- You can prepare the Danish in advance and refrigerate before baking to save time.
- For a festive touch, brush the pastry with an egg wash before baking to achieve a glossy finish.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
