Introduction: Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of homemade pastries with a recipe for Cherry Cream Cheese Danish. This elegant yet straightforward treat features a flaky pastry filled with a creamy, tangy cheese mixture and topped with sweet cherry preserves. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this Cherry Cream Cheese Danish is sure to impress. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!
Ingredients: For the Pastry:
- 1 package (17.3 ounces) puff pastry sheets, thawed (2 sheets)
- All-purpose flour, for dusting
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 cup cherry preserves
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
- Beat in the egg yolk until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Set aside.
- Roll out the Pastry:
- Lightly flour your work surface. Unfold one sheet of puff pastry and roll it out slightly to smooth any creases.
- Cut the pastry sheet into 4 equal squares. Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry.
- Fill the Pastries:
- Spoon a generous dollop of the cream cheese filling onto the center of each pastry square, leaving a border around the edges.
- In a small bowl, mix together the cherry preserves, water, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Spoon a tablespoon or so of the cherry mixture on top of the cream cheese filling in each pastry.
- Fold and Seal:
- Fold the corners of each pastry square over the filling, creating a square parcel.
- Press the edges firmly to seal, using a fork to crimp the edges if desired.
- Bake:
- Place the filled pastries onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Optional Glaze:
- If desired, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm pastries just before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the Cherry Cream Cheese Danish to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful combination of flaky pastry, creamy cheese filling, and sweet cherry topping.
- Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the oven or microwave before serving.
That’s it! You’ve just made your own batch of irresistible Cherry Cream Cheese Danish pastries. Enjoy the compliments as you share these delicious treats with family and friends!