Introduction to Easy Cherry Danish Pastry
Right, to the job in my kitchen — very, very quickly – we’re making Easy Cherry Danish Pastry which is great for rushed mornings or afternoons when you just don’t feel like working at all. Being a busy mom myself, I know quite logically how tough it can be juggling work, family, and still desiring some sort of delectable indulgence. This recipe is one fast solution to satisfying that has been made for sweet craving while ‘amazing’ your dear ones. And what if, in the middle of it all, they actually taste as good as they sound? Seriously, do not let yourself pass up on an opportunity like this!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Cherry Danish Pastry
This Easy Cherry Danish Pastry comes together in no time, making it the ideal choice for busy days. The flaky crust and sweet cherry filling bring a burst of flavor that will take you back to summers spent savoring the best desserts. Plus, it’s simple enough for even novice bakers to master! So, whether it’s breakfast or dessert, you’ll enjoy a delightful treat that looks fancy but is super easy to make.
Ingredients for Easy Cherry Danish Pastry
Let’s gather our ingredients for this Easy Cherry Danish Pastry. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delightful treat to life:
- Puff Pastry: The star of our show! This flaky, buttery dough makes our pastries light and airy. You can find it in the freezer aisle at your local grocery store.
- Cherry Pie Filling: A quick shortcut for that sweet and tangy flavor. Feel free to use homemade cherry filling if you’re feeling adventurous, but canned is just fine for busy days.
- Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy, rich element to our pastries. Softened cream cheese blends seamlessly with the sugar and vanilla for an irresistible filling.
- Granulated Sugar: Just enough to sweeten the cream cheese mixture. It balances the flavors beautifully! You could substitute it with alternative sweeteners if you’re aiming for a healthier twist.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the taste, making everything feel more decadent. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Large Egg: Essential for our egg wash, it gives the pastries that beautiful golden finish. You can use a flax egg for a vegan version if necessary.
- Water: Just a little to help mix the egg wash smoothly. It’s a small but crucial part of that shiny appearance.
- Powdered Sugar: Sprinkled on top for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. You can omit this if you prefer a less sugary finish.
- Whole Milk: Mixed with powdered sugar to create a quick icing, adding extra sweetness if desired!
You can find the exact quantities for these ingredients at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Let’s get started on making these gorgeous pastries!
How to Make Easy Cherry Danish Pastry
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Easy Cherry Danish Pastries. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll create something marvelous!
Prepare the Puff Pastry
First, if your puff pastry is frozen, be sure to let it thaw at room temperature. This process can take about 30 minutes, so plan accordingly. Once it’s soft, gently unfold it on a floured surface. Don’t worry if it looks a bit crumpled; it’s all part of its charm!
Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, blend until it’s as smooth as silk. This mixture is the creamy heart of your pastries. Set it aside for now, but oh, the aroma is already making me swoon!
Shape the Pastries
Next, roll out your puff pastry into a rectangle about 9 by 11 inches. From here, cut the dough into six triangles using the fold lines as a guide. Repeat this with the second sheet to create a total of 12 triangles. Remember, each triangle needs a 1/4-inch border, so gently score that around the edges without cutting through. It’s like giving your pastries a cozy frame!
Chill and Preheat
Now, transfer those beautiful triangles to lined baking sheets. Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly among the centers, spreading about two tablespoons on each one. Then, top each triangle with cherry pie filling. Isn’t that color just stunning? Pop the pastries in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This helps them puff up nicely while they bake. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F.
Apply Egg Wash
After chilling, it’s time to make your pastries shine. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 2 teaspoons of water. Using a pastry brush, gently dab the mixture around the edges of each pastry. This egg wash gives that beautiful golden finish we all love. It’s like giving each pastry a little fancy hat!
Bake the Pastries
Your oven is hot and ready! Bake the pastries for 18 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they’re golden brown and flaky. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist snatching one early. Patience, my friend!
Finish and Serve
Once they are out of the oven, let those pastries cool for about 5 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to dust them with powdered sugar—it adds a delightful sweetness and pretty presentation. Serve them warm or chilled, whatever suits your fancy. Enjoy every bite, and I promise these pastries will become a favorite in your household!
Tips for Success
- Always let the puff pastry thaw completely for best results.
- Chill your pastries before baking for an extra puff!
- Use powdered sugar right before serving to prevent it from melting.
- For added flavor, mix a pinch of almond extract into the cream cheese mixture.
- Keep an eye on your pastries while baking—ovens vary!
Equipment Needed for Easy Cherry Danish Pastry
- Baking Sheets: Your trusty ally for baking. If you don’t have them, a large oven-safe platter will work.
- Parchment Paper: Essential for easy cleanup. You can also use a silicone baking mat if that’s handy!
- Mixing Bowls: A medium mixing bowl for the cream cheese mixture. Any bowl will do in a pinch.
- Fork: For poking holes in the pastry. A simple dinner fork is perfectly fine!
- Pastry Brush: For the egg wash, but a clean paintbrush works too!
Variations of Easy Cherry Danish Pastry
- Berry Medley: Swap out the cherry pie filling for mixed berries like blueberries and raspberries for a burst of different flavors.
- Chocolate Delight: Add small chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture for a chocolate cherry combination that’s simply irresistible.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, over the cherry filling for added texture and flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate some lemon or orange zest into the cream cheese mixture for a refreshing twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry to make this delightful treat suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Cherry Danish Pastry
- Great with Coffee: Pair these pastries with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast treat.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries to add a refreshing touch.
- Elegant Presentation: Arrange pastries on a colorful platter and sprinkle with mint leaves for a pop of color.
- Ice Cream: Try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert!
- Extra Drizzle: Finish with a chocolate or caramel drizzle for a sweet finishing touch.
FAQs about Easy Cherry Danish Pastry
Here are some common questions you might have about making your own Easy Cherry Danish Pastries. I’m always here to help you navigate the sweet world of baking!
Can I use frozen cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain the frozen cherries, adding a little sugar to enhance sweetness if desired. It’s a fresh substitute that brings natural flavor!
How do I store leftover pastries?
Store any leftover Easy Cherry Danish Pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them. Reheat briefly in the oven for the best texture!
Can I make the pastry dough from scratch?
While this recipe uses store-bought puff pastry for convenience, feel free to make your own if you have the time! Just ensure it’s rolled thin enough for those flaky layers.
How can I make these pastries ahead of time?
You can prepare the pastries up to the chilling stage and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready!
What can I serve with Easy Cherry Danish Pastry?
These pastries pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of ice cream for dessert. Fresh fruit on the side adds a refreshing touch!
Final Thoughts
Creating these Easy Cherry Danish Pastries has been such a joy, both in the kitchen and at the table. The laughter and smiles shared over these flaky treats remind us all that joy doesn’t always have to come with a hefty time commitment. With just a few simple steps, you unlock a world of delectable flavors that embrace the comfort of home-baked goodness. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a delightful dessert, these pastries bring a little magic to our busy lives. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished moment in your cooking adventures, just as it has in mine!
Print
Easy Cherry Danish Pastry
- Total Time: 52 minutes
- Yield: 12 pastries 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delightful cherry danish pastry made with puff pastry, cream cheese, and cherry pie filling.
Ingredients
- 17.3 oz thawed puff pastry (1 pack)
- 21 oz canned cherry pie filling (1 can)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp water
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tsp whole milk
Instructions
- If the puff pastry is frozen, remove it from the freezer and allow it to thaw at room temperature.
- In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper (9×13 sheets or larger).
- Dust your workspace with flour. Unfold a thawed pastry sheet and roll it out slightly to form a 9×11 inch rectangle. (Optional: Skip rolling for smaller pastries.)
- Cut the pastry into 6 even-sized triangles using the folded lines as a guide. Repeat with the second pastry sheet for a total of 12 triangles. Gently score a 1/4-inch border around the edge of each triangle. Do not cut through the pastry. Using a fork, poke a few holes in the center of each triangle to help the border rise higher than the center.
- Transfer the 12 pastry triangles to the prepared baking sheets. Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly (about 2 tablespoons per pastry), spreading it in the center. Top each with about 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling.
- Place the assembled pastries in the refrigerator to chill for at least 15 minutes. This helps achieve puffier and more beautiful pastries during baking.
- Preheat the oven to 400℉.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 2 tsp of water. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the egg wash onto the outer border of each pastry.
- Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and allow them to cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Dust the pastries with powdered sugar. Optional: Drizzle with icing for extra sweetness. Serve warm or chilled, as preferred.
Notes
- For best results, chill the pastries before baking.
- Can be served warm or chilled, based on preference.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pastry
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
