Cherry Cheese Danish

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Let’s be honest: some days you just need a little sweetness in your life. And if you’re anything like me, a Cherry Cheese Danish is the perfect answer to that call! This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also simple enough to whip up during your bustling mornings or as a sweet treat for the next brunch with friends. Trust me, your loved ones will be singing your praises!

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Cheese Danish

Picture a flaky pastry topped with creamy cheese and vibrant cherries; it’s like a hug for your taste buds! This Cherry Cheese Danish strikes that perfect balance between indulgent and comforting. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make use of those cherries in your fridge (or, let’s be real, the ones you picked up from the grocery store and forgot about). Whether you’re a busy mom needing a fast break or a professional looking for a sweet pick-me-up at home, this pastry is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Let’s gather our star players! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Danish Dough:

1 package (8 oz) of cream cheese, softened
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped (you can use frozen if that’s what you have on hand!)
1 tube (8 oz) of crescent roll dough
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 Tbsp of water)

For the Cheese Filling:

1 cup ricotta cheese (or cream cheese for a richer flavor)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1: Prepping the Oven and Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Go ahead, give your kitchen a quick pep talk! This Cherry Cheese Danish is going to be magical!

Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix them all together until smooth. A little zen moment in the kitchen never hurt anyone!

Step 3: Unroll and Shape the Dough

Open the tube of crescent roll dough and press it out flat onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Try to seal the perforations to form one cohesive piece. If those perforations give you a bit of a fight, just think of it as a pre-baking workout!

Step 4: Add the Filling

Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border all around. Top with the chopped cherries, letting their bright color shine through!

Step 5: Fold and Brush

Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, making sure to leave an open center. This is a rustic Danish, after all, not a perfect one! Brush the egg wash over the dough. It’s like giving your pastry a little spa treatment before it takes a hot bath in the oven.

Step 6: Bake

Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Your kitchen is going to smell like a bakery, and honestly, you might want to keep that door open to lure any neighbors in!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the powdered sugar over the top and slice it into squares or rectangles, whichever floats your boat. Serve with a sense of pride!

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Danish

Don’t skimp on the cherries! They add both color and flavor, and let’s face it, we eat with our eyes first.
Experiment with fillings! Feel free to swap out the cherries for blueberries or even strawberries. Variety is the spice of life!
If you find yourself in a time crunch, look for ready-made pastry dough in the freezer section. I won’t tell anyone!

FAQs

Can I substitute cream cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you can use ricotta cheese entirely or even mascarpone for a delightful variation.

How can I store leftovers?
Wrap the leftover Danish tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to three days. They make a lovely breakfast or snack!

Can I freeze my Cherry Cheese Danish?
Yes! You can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

Life can be hectic, but this Cherry Cheese Danish brings a touch of sweetness to your busy day. So why not treat yourself? Whether it’s served fresh from the oven or as a reheat-and-enjoy, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Grab your apron, channel your inner chef, and let’s get baking!

For more recipes check my

Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe

or

Cherry Lemon Cheesecake Recipe