Name: Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-484953H19M9S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package puff pastry (two sheets); 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat); 3 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract (or Bourbon); 1 can cherry pie filling; Powdered sugar for dusting

This easy cherry cheese danish recipe is the perfect treat for any time of the year. Made with puff pastry, cream cheese, and cherry filling, these danishes are both delicious and quick to prepare. The crisp pastry combined with the sweet and tangy cream cheese filling is sure to impress, whether it’s for a special occasion or a weekday breakfast. Easy Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, yet feels indulgent. The puff pastry makes the danish light and flaky, while the creamy filling adds richness and depth. Plus, with a little help from store-bought puff pastry and cherry pie filling, it’s a breeze to whip up. I often make these for breakfast or serve them at brunch – they never fail to impress!

Ingredients

1 package puff pastry (two sheets)
8 oz cream cheese (full-fat)
3 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract (or Bourbon)
1 can cherry pie filling
Powdered sugar for dusting

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Lay out one sheet of puff pastry and cut it into 4 equal squares.
On each square, cut small slits in each corner, creating an “L” shape without cutting all the way to the middle.
Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla (or Bourbon). Place a small spoonful of this mixture in the center of each square.
Top with a cherry and a bit of filling.
Wet the corners with water and fold them in towards the center, securing the filling.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Once done, remove from the oven and dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze if preferred.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 8 danishes. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and baking time is 12-15 minutes. In total, the recipe takes around 30 minutes.

Variations

You can swap the cherry filling for other fruits like raspberry, blueberry, or strawberry if you prefer.
If you’re not a fan of puff pastry, phyllo dough can be used for a lighter texture.
Instead of powdered sugar, you could drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweeter finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to reheat them, pop them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up again. You can also freeze them for up to a month, but be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

FAQs

How can I make these danishes ahead of time?

I like to prep the danishes the night before, store them in the fridge, and bake them in the morning for a fresh, hot breakfast.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries work great, just be sure to cook them down with a little sugar to create a syrupy filling.

Can I use light cream cheese?

I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best texture, but light cream cheese can work in a pinch.

How do I make the glaze for the danishes?

To make a glaze, simply mix powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the danishes after baking.

How long will these danishes stay fresh?

They stay fresh for about 2 days at room temperature, or up to a month if frozen.

Conclusion

This easy cherry cheese danish recipe is a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a special breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can enjoy this flaky, creamy, and fruity treat in no time!