Cherry Cream Cheese Danish: The Best Easy Recipe for Home Bakers

Name: Cherry Cream Cheese Danish: The Best Easy Recipe for Home Bakers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package puff pastry; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup cherry pie filling; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Sima C.

August 16, 2025

Introduction to Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon pick-me-up, look no further than the cherry cream cheese danish. This delightful pastry combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the vibrant flavor of cherries, making it a beloved choice for those who enjoy a touch of indulgence in their day.

What makes Cherry Cream Cheese Danish a delightful treat?

Let’s dive into what sets this pastry apart. First off, the delightful combination of textures—the flaky layers of buttery pastry envelop the creamy filling, giving your taste buds a pleasantly layered experience. Did you know that according to the American Bakers Association, pastries like the Danish are among the most popular baked goods enjoyed across the U.S.? There’s something universally appealing about a sweet, flaky pastry that brightens your mood.

Next, consider the flavors. Fresh or canned cherries burst forth with a juicy sweetness that perfectly complements the tangy richness of the cream cheese filling. The interplay of flavors not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your table. If you’re interested in learning more about baking techniques and recipes, the King Arthur Baking Company is a fantastic resource to explore.

On top of these delightful sensory experiences, a cherry cream cheese danish is versatile. Whether you enjoy it warm straight out of the oven or chilled for a refreshing snack, there’s no wrong way to indulge. Plus, it serves wonderfully at gatherings or as an impressive homemade gift.

As you prepare to create your own cherry cream cheese danish, keep in mind that the process can be fun and approachable. The interplay of flavors and textures is worth every bit of effort. So why not embark on this tasty adventure? Your friends and family will surely appreciate the delicious results. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate a regular day into something special—one sweet bite at a time.

Ingredients for Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

Crafting a delightful cherry cream cheese danish at home is easier than you might think! Let’s dive into the vital ingredients that will bring this treat to life.

Pastry Dough Essentials

Puff Pastry: Opt for high-quality, pre-rolled puff pastry for a flaky, buttery base.
Flour: A light dusting of all-purpose flour for your surface helps prevent sticking while rolling out the pastry.

Cream Cheese Filling

Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for a smooth consistency that’s easy to blend.
Sugar: A bit of granulated sugar adds sweetness to balance the tang of the cream cheese.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash enhances the flavor profile beautifully.

Cherry Topping

Cherry Pie Filling: Store-bought works fine, but you can also use fresh or frozen cherries for a more natural flavor.
Cornstarch: This thickener helps to create that delicious glaze when cooking fresh cherries.

Extra Touches

Egg Wash: A mix of egg and water for that golden sheen on the pastry when it bakes.
Powdered Sugar: A light dusting before serving adds a lovely finish.

Getting these ingredients together is your first step toward enjoying a fresh cherry cream cheese danish that’ll impress friends and family alike! For more tips on using puff pastry, check out this informative link.

Preparing Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

Baking a cherry cream cheese danish is an indulgent way to celebrate the art of pastry making. While it might seem daunting, breaking down the process makes it not only manageable but also truly enjoyable. Let’s get started!

Gather all your ingredients

The first step in preparing your cherry cream cheese danish is to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Puff pastry sheets (store-bought or homemade)
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
Powdered sugar (1/2 cup)
Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
Cherries (fresh or canned, drained, and pitted)
Egg (for the egg wash)
Flour (for dusting)

Making sure you have everything laid out before you start will save you time and reduce any kitchen chaos. You might also want to grab some equipment: a mixing bowl, rolling pin, and baking sheets. If you’re curious about making homemade puff pastry, check out this helpful guide from King Arthur Baking.

Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheets

While it’s tempting to dive right into mixing and rolling, preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) is crucial. This ensures your danish bakes evenly when the time comes.

At the same time, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. You want everything to be ready for that heavenly moment when your cherry cream cheese danish emerges from the oven!

Handle the puff pastry with care

Puff pastry is delicate yet divine—much like the cherry cream cheese danish itself! When working with it, be gentle. Lay your pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking and roll them out to your desired thickness. A little extra flour might help if they feel sticky. Remember, the goal is to keep the layers intact, as they will puff up beautifully during baking.

Mix the cream cheese filling

Now onto the star of the show—the cream cheese filling. In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. This mixture should be irresistibly luscious—perfect for piping into your pastries! If you enjoy a hint of citrus, consider adding a touch of lemon zest to elevate the flavor profile.

Assemble each Danish carefully

With your ingredients prepped, it’s time to bring everything together. Cut the puff pastry into squares (about 4 inches). Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center, followed by a few cherries on top. If you’re feeling artistic, you can fold the corners toward the center or leave them open for a more rustic look.

Brush with egg wash

To achieve that golden, glossy finish, create an egg wash by whisking an egg with a splash of water. Lightly brush the mixture over each cherry cream cheese danish. This step enhances not only the appearance but also the flavor of your pastries, making them utterly irresistible.

Bake to golden perfection

Place the assembled pastries on the prepared baking sheets and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cherry cream cheese danish are golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, tantalizing your senses as you await that first bite.

Once done, allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for breakfast, a coffee break, or even a sweet treat at your next gathering.

Baking may seem like a science, but it’s also an art. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor the delicious rewards of your hard work!

Variations on Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

If you love the delightful flavors in a cherry cream cheese danish, why not explore some enticing variations? They’re incredibly easy to adapt, and you might just find a new favorite!

Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish

Blueberries have that perfect mix of sweet and tart that pairs wonderfully with cream cheese. For a blueberry cream cheese danish, simply swap out the cherries for fresh or frozen blueberries. You might want to add a hint of lemon zest to the filling for that extra zing. The vibrant color of blueberries also makes these pastries a feast for the eyes! Serve them warm, and watch as everyone raves about the flavors. Fun fact: Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, making them a guilt-free indulgence.

Raspberry Almond Cream Cheese Danish

If you’re a fan of raspberry, this variation is calling your name! To make raspberry almond cream cheese danish, use fresh raspberries or raspberry preserves in place of the cherries. Adding a teaspoon of almond extract to your cream cheese filling creates a lovely flavor profile that’s reminiscent of sweet almond pastries. Dust with sliced almonds before baking for a beautiful finish. This combination not only tastes divine but also offers a crunchy texture that elevates every bite.

Feel free to mix and match! You can learn more about these fruits and their benefits on sites like the USDA’s nutritional database or Healthline, where you’ll find a wealth of information that inspires creativity in the kitchen. Whether you choose cherry, blueberry, or raspberry, each variation brings something special to the table—making your danish creations as diverse as your taste buds!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

When it comes to baking your cherry cream cheese danish, there are some handy tips to ensure your creation is as delightful as possible.

Use Quality Ingredients

Start with high-quality cream cheese and cherries. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in flavor. If using canned cherries, look for those in juice rather than syrup for a lighter taste.

Roll the Dough Thin

Roll your pastry dough thinly. A thinner crust will yield a flaky, crispy texture that perfectly complements the creamy filling. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick—don’t worry if it looks rustic; that’s character!

Mastering the Filling

For the cream cheese filling, blend it well until smooth. This creates a rich texture that spreads easily. You can also experiment by adding a dash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Bake to Perfection

Keep an eye on your danish while it bakes. It should be golden brown and bubbling slightly when done. Letting it cool on a wire rack helps to maintain that delightful crispiness!

Serve with a Twist

Serving your cherry cream cheese danish with a drizzle of icing or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate your dish, making it impressive for guests or a delicious treat for yourself.

For more baking tips, check out The Kitchn’s Guide to Pastry for inspiration and additional techniques!

Serving suggestions for Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

When it comes to enjoying your Cherry Cream Cheese Danish, the serving possibilities are as delightful as the pastry itself! Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet morning, here are some creative ideas to elevate your experience:

Pair with a Fresh Brew

Serve your cherry cream cheese danish alongside a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea. The rich flavors of your pastry complement the warmth and aroma of a well-brewed drink, making every bite a little slice of heaven. For a refreshing twist, try pairing it with a glass of cold-pressed juice, like apple or orange.

Create a Breakfast Platter

Assemble a breakfast platter that includes slices of turkey bacon or chicken ham, along with fresh fruits such as berries and bananas. This balanced meal not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides protein and vitamins essential for your busy day ahead.

Don’t Forget the Presentation

To impress your guests, consider arranging your cherry cream cheese danish on a beautiful serving dish or cake stand. Consider garnishing with a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprig of mint for that extra touch.

For more visual inspiration on food presentation, check out resources from The Kitchn. The way you serve can truly enhance the experience of enjoying your delicious pastries!

Time breakdown for Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

Preparation time

To get started with your cherry cream cheese danish, set aside about 20 minutes for preparation. This includes gathering your ingredients, prepping the cream cheese filling, and rolling out your dough. Make sure to have everything within arm’s reach—this will keep your workflow smooth!

Cooking time

Baking time for your delicious danishes will take around 25 minutes. You’ll want them to be golden and flaky, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time.

Total time

Overall, you can expect to invest about 45 minutes into this delightful recipe. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a sweet treat during the week! If you’re looking for more breakfast inspiration, you might also enjoy these recipes on Taste of Home or Allrecipes!

This cherry cream cheese danish is sure to impress, and every bite will be a delightful experience. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

When you’re indulging in a delicious cherry cream cheese danish, it’s essential to know what you’re enjoying! Here’s a quick look at the nutritional aspects that make this treat so delightful.

Calories

A typical serving of cherry cream cheese danish contains around 300 calories. While it’s a splurge, it’s perfect for that occasional sweet treat you deserve.

Carbohydrates

This pastry packs about 34 grams of carbohydrates per serving, providing the energy boost you might need during your busy day. Choosing when to enjoy it can be key—perhaps as a part of a weekend brunch?

Sugars

With roughly 12 grams of sugars, this danish does have a sweetness that satisfies your cravings. Opting for fresh cherries or lower-sugar alternatives can help lighten it up without sacrificing too much flavor.

For more information on managing sugar intake, you can visit the American Heart Association.

Enjoy your baking, and remember, moderation is key!

FAQs about Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can bring a delightful, natural flavor to your cherry cream cheese danish. Just be sure to pit and slice them before use. To enhance their sweetness, consider tossing them with a little sugar and cornstarch before placing them on your pastry. This not only helps to create a thicker filling but also lets those beautiful cherry flavors shine through. For a more robust texture, freshly roasted or lightly sautéed cherries can provide a unique spin on the classic filling.

How do I store leftovers?

If you find yourself with leftover cherry cream cheese danish, don’t worry! To keep them fresh, store the danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate them, which can help maintain their texture. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature or warm them up slightly in the oven before enjoying. This brings back that flaky, warmed-up goodness!

Can I freeze the Cherry Cream Cheese Danish?

Yes, you can! Freezing your cherry cream cheese danish is a great way to extend their life. Wrap each danish tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven. You’ll experience that fresh-baked aroma all over again!

For tips on freezing baked goods, check out King Arthur Baking. Enjoy your delightful treats!

Conclusion on Cherry Cream Cheese Danish

Indulging in a cherry cream cheese danish is a delightful experience that combines buttery pastry with sweet, tangy cherries and smooth cream cheese filling. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this treat ticks all the boxes for flavor and comfort.

To wrap things up, this recipe is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s also a canvas for creativity. Feel free to experiment with different fruits or toppings to make it your own! If you want more inspiration, check out various pastry tutorials on Serious Eats or explore the world of pastries with King Arthur Baking. Enjoy baking your cherry cream cheese danish, and savor every bite!