Cherry Danish

There’s something magical about a freshly baked Cherry Danish. The flaky pastry, the sweet cream cheese filling, and the tart cherry topping come together to create a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. This Cherry Danish recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying to eat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, these Danishes will surely impress.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

When it comes to baked goods, versatility is key. This Cherry Danish is not only delicious but can also be customized to suit your preferences. The combination of cream cheese and cherry pie filling creates a rich, flavorful experience that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, with the use of flaky crescent rolls, you can whip up these Danishes in no time. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast on busy mornings or as a sweet treat to share with friends and family.

Ingredient Rundown

To create the perfect Cherry Danish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 5 ounces cream cheese (softened) – This adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the cherries.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract – A touch of almond extract enhances the flavor, giving the Danish a delightful depth.
• 2 cups sugar – This will sweeten the cream cheese filling and balance the tartness of the cherry pie filling.
• 21 ounces cherry pie filling – The star of the show! This provides the juicy, fruity flavor that makes the Danish irresistible.
• 1 egg – Used to create a golden-brown glaze on the pastry.
• 1 tablespoon water – This will help to create the egg wash for the pastry.
• 16 ounces flaky crescent rolls (placed in the freezer for 30 minutes – two 8-ounce tubes) – These make the perfect flaky base for the Danish.
• 1 cup slivered almonds (optional) – These add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall texture.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – For the sweet glaze that ties the whole dish together.
• 3 tablespoons whole milk – This will help create a smooth glaze for drizzling over the Danishes.

Setup & Equipment

Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

• Baking sheet – To place the Danishes while they bake.
• Parchment paper – Optional, but it makes for easier cleanup.
• Mixing bowls – For combining the filling ingredients.
• Whisk – To mix the egg wash and glaze.
• Spatula – For spreading the cream cheese filling.

Cherry Danish: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, almond extract, and 1 cup of sugar. Use a whisk or spatula to mix until the ingredients are smooth and well combined. Set this mixture aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for your Danishes.

Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Rolls

Take the chilled flaky crescent rolls out of the freezer. Unroll the dough and separate it into triangles as indicated on the packaging.

Step 4: Assemble the Danishes

On a parchment-lined baking sheet, lay out each triangle of dough. At the wide end of each triangle, spread about 1-2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture. Top with a generous spoonful of cherry pie filling.

Step 5: Shape the Danishes

To shape the Danishes, fold the corners of the dough over the filling towards the center. This will create a lovely pocket for the filling.

Step 6: Prepare the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush this mixture over the top of each Danish to give them a beautiful golden color as they bake.

Step 7: Add the Almonds

If you’re using slivered almonds, sprinkle them over the top of the Danishes now for added texture and flavor.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the Danishes are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Step 9: Make the Glaze

While the Danishes are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing together the powdered sugar and whole milk in a small bowl. Adjust the milk until you achieve a smooth, drizzle-able consistency.

Step 10: Drizzle and Serve

Once the Danishes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the top while they’re still warm for the best flavor. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you’re looking for vegan or vegetarian alternatives, consider these swaps:

• Vegan cream cheese – Replace regular cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
• Plant-based milk – Use almond milk or soy milk instead of whole milk for the glaze.
• Flax egg – For the egg wash, you can use a flax egg made from 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water.
• Vegan crescent rolls – Check labels to find crescent rolls that are dairy-free.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Cherry Danish turns out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using cold cream cheese – Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
• Overfilling – Don’t overstuff the Danishes, as this can cause the filling to ooze out during baking.
• Skipping the chilling step – Chilling the crescent rolls helps maintain their flakiness during baking.
• Not preheating the oven – Make sure your oven is fully preheated to get that nice golden color on your pastries.

Save It for Later

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store your Cherry Danish:

You can store any leftover Danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, or enjoy them cold for a quick snack!

FAQ

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cherries, but you will need to sweeten them and thicken the mixture with cornstarch or a similar thickener to create a filling similar to cherry pie filling.

Can I freeze Cherry Danishes?

Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked Danishes. Just assemble them and then freeze them on the baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I know when my Danishes are done baking?

Your Danishes are done when they are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. A light golden color indicates they are perfectly baked.

What can I serve with Cherry Danish?

Cherry Danish pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

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Next Steps

Now that you have this delicious Cherry Danish recipe under your belt, it’s time to get baking! Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the process of creating these flaky, sweet delights. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family, or indulge in them all by yourself—no judgment here!

Cherry Danish is a delightful treat that can brighten any day. With its flaky pastry, creamy filling, and sweet cherry topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!