If you’ve ever dreamed of baking a pastry that feels like a warm hug in dessert form, this Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly balances the creamy, rich cheese filling with the sweet, vibrant cherry topping all nestled inside flaky, golden puff pastry. Each bite delivers layers of texture and flavor that make it an irresistible treat for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorites to bake and share with the people you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding creaminess, sweetness, or that flaky texture we all adore. These straightforward, accessible ingredients come together to create something truly special.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Provides the luscious, creamy base for the filling with a hint of tanginess.
- ¼ cup sugar: Sweetens the cheese filling just right without overpowering it.
- 1 egg yolk: Adds richness and helps bind the filling together smoothly.
- 1 tablespoon ricotta cheese: Boosts the texture, making the filling light and fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract): Gives an aromatic fragrance that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- ½ tablespoon lemon zest: Brings a fresh, zesty brightness that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.
- 2 sheets puff pastry (1 box), thawed: The star of the show, creating crisp, flaky layers that encase the filling.
- Flour (for dusting): Prevents sticking while rolling out the pastry for easy handling.
- 1 can cherry pie filling: The vibrant, fruity topping that adds just the right amount of sweetness and juiciness.
- 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water: Used as an egg wash for that irresistible golden crust.
How to Make Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Filling
Start by softening the cream cheese so it blends easily into a smooth mixture. Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened cream cheese and sugar until velvety smooth. Then, add the egg yolk, ricotta cheese, your choice of almond or vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and the fresh lemon zest. Mix everything together until it’s well combined, then cover and pop it in the fridge. Keeping the filling chilled makes it easier to handle when assembling your danishes later.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper — this will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Lightly dust your workspace with flour and give the thawed puff pastry sheets a gentle roll to smooth out the edges. Then, cut each sheet into nine equal squares so you’ll have 18 pieces total. These squares will be the perfect size for individual danish bites.
Step 3: Assemble the Danishes
Arrange the puff pastry squares evenly on the baking sheets. Using the back of a spoon or your fingers, press down in the center of each square to create a small well that will hold the filling. Spoon about a tablespoon of the chilled cheese mixture into the indentation, then top it off with a dollop of cherry pie filling. This layering of flavors and textures is what makes this recipe truly magical!
Step 4: Add the Egg Wash
To achieve that gorgeous golden and glossy crust, brush the edges of each puff pastry square with the egg wash made from one beaten egg and a tablespoon of water. This step is the key to those Instagram-worthy danishes that look as good as they taste.
Step 5: Bake the Danishes
Pop your baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You want to bake until the puff pastry is beautifully puffed and golden brown all over. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack just enough so they firm up a bit but are still warm and inviting. Then, get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few simple garnishes instantly elevates your Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a pretty finish. You can also sprinkle some sliced almonds for a subtle crunch or even a drizzle of honey for extra richness. Fresh mint leaves can add a vibrant, herbal note to brighten up each bite.
Side Dishes
This danish pairs brilliantly with so many beverages and sides. Think freshly brewed coffee or a steaming cup of chai tea to complement the sweet and tangy flavors. For a more substantial brunch, serve with a bowl of mixed fresh fruit or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Both options balance the richness of the cheese danish nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your guests by presenting these danishes on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh cherries or edible flowers. For a festive touch, serve them on a tiered cake stand at brunch or a holiday gathering. You can even wrap each danish in parchment paper tied with twine for a sweet gift idea. The possibilities to showcase this Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe are endless and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from this Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe (which rarely happens), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To keep the pastry from getting soggy, layering pieces with parchment paper helps maintain that flaky texture.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooled danishes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing them until firm before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen danishes can last up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy and chewy, which is far from the ideal flaky experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries are a wonderful alternative, especially when they’re in season. Just pit and lightly cook them with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to create a similar syrupy consistency before topping your danishes.
Is it okay to substitute ricotta cheese in the filling?
Yes, ricotta adds a lovely lightness to the filling. However, if you don’t have ricotta, you can omit it or replace it with a bit more cream cheese. The texture will be a bit denser, but still delicious.
Can I make the danishes vegan or dairy-free?
While this recipe relies on cream cheese and puff pastry containing butter, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and vegan puff pastry available at many stores. Just be mindful the texture and flavor will vary slightly from the original recipe.
How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy under the filling?
Make sure to create a gentle indentation in the pastry for the filling so it stays contained. Also, avoid overloading with filling to keep the pastry crisp. The egg wash helps seal and crisp the edges too.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! This recipe scales beautifully. Just work with puff pastry sheets in batches and keep assembled danishes refrigerated if you need to prepare ahead before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe is one of those delightful treats that make any day feel a little more special. It’s approachable, delicious, and perfect to share with friends and family. Whether you’re baking for a casual brunch or a festive occasion, these danishes bring smiles with every bite. So go ahead—whip up this charming pastry and bask in the joy of homemade goodness!
Print
Cherry Cheese Danish Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 18 danishes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cherry Cheese Danish recipe features flaky puff pastry filled with a luscious cream cheese and ricotta mixture, topped with sweet cherry pie filling. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert, these danishes combine creamy, fruity, and buttery flavors baked to a golden brown finish.
Ingredients
Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon ricotta cheese
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract)
- Pinch of salt
- ½ tablespoon lemon zest
Pastry and Topping
- 2 sheets puff pastry (1 box), thawed
- Flour (for dusting)
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sugar using an electric mixer until smooth. Add the egg yolk, ricotta cheese, almond or vanilla extract, salt, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry sheets slightly to smooth the edges. Cut each sheet into 9 equal squares, making 18 squares total.
- Assemble the Danishes: Place the puff pastry squares on the prepared baking sheets, spaced evenly. Press the center of each square gently with the back of a spoon or your fingers to create an indentation for the filling. Add about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture to the center, then top with a spoonful of cherry pie filling.
- Add the Egg Wash: Brush the edges of each puff pastry square with the beaten egg wash to help achieve a golden, glossy finish during baking.
- Bake the Danishes: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the puff pastry is fully puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easier blending and smooth texture.
- You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract according to your preference.
- Use a light dusting of flour to prevent the puff pastry from sticking when rolling out.
- Be careful not to overfill the danishes to avoid leakage during baking.
- Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
