Sweet Cherry Cream Danish is a delightful pastry that combines the rich, buttery flavor of a Danish pastry with the juicy sweetness of cherries and a luscious cream cheese filling. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. With its flaky layers and vibrant filling, the Sweet Cherry Cream Danish is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) of cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (17.5 oz) of frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup fresh or canned cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry into a rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the pastry into squares, approximately 4×4 inches.
Step 3: Assemble the Danish
Place a spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry square. Top with a few cherry halves. Fold the corners of the pastry squares towards the center, pinching them together to seal.
Step 4: Apply Egg Wash
Brush the tops of the assembled Danish with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
Step 5: Bake the Danish
Arrange the Danish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Dust
Once baked, remove the Danish from the oven and let them cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for the Sweet Cherry Cream Danish?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
How do I store leftovers of the Sweet Cherry Cream Danish?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their flakiness.
Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the Danish.
What other fruits can I use in this recipe?
You can substitute cherries with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries for a different flavor profile.