🍒 Cherry Cream Cheese Danishes: A Sweet Treat Worth Savoring

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pastry Base:

• 1 package of crescent rolls (Pillsbury recommended for best flavor; thawed if frozen)

• 1–2 tbsp all-purpose flour, for dusting

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• ¾ cup powdered or granulated sugar

• ½ tsp vanilla extract (or a splash)

• 1 can cherry pie filling

For the Glaze:

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar, for sprinkling on top

• 3 tbsp milk

• Extra powdered sugar (optional, to thicken the glaze)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crescent Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unroll the crescent roll dough and gently separate it. Using a sharp knife, slice the dough pieces into about 15 even rounds.

Place these on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten each round slightly using the back of a small cup or saucer. Use your fingers to build little edges or “walls” around each round—this keeps your luscious filling from spilling out while baking.

2. Dust with Flour

Sprinkle a light dusting of flour over both the surface and the dough to prevent sticking and help maintain structure.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla. Beat until smooth and creamy. This will be the silky foundation that complements the tartness of the cherries.

4. Add the Fillings

Spoon a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each dough round—just enough to fill the center without overflowing. Then, top each one with 4–5 cherries from your pie filling. Feel free to adjust the number depending on how fruity you want them!

5. Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed. The smell alone will make your kitchen feel like a pastry shop.

6. Cool and Glaze

Let your Danishes cool slightly on a wire rack. While they’re cooling, whisk together milk and powdered sugar until you get a smooth, thick glaze. Drizzle generously over the top of each Danish for that picture-perfect finish.

✨ Tips for the Best Danishes

• Don’t overfill: A little cream cheese and a few cherries go a long way—too much can overflow during baking.

• Use parchment paper: It helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

• Chill your filling: If your kitchen is warm, briefly chill the cream cheese mixture so it holds shape better.

• Experiment with flavors: Swap cherries for blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Made with crescent rolls, no need for complicated dough.

• Beautifully balanced: The tang of cream cheese, sweetness of cherries, and buttery pastry are a match made in dessert heaven.

• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a tea-time treat, these Danishes hit the spot.

📸 Final Thoughts: Picture-Perfect Pastries in Minutes

This Cherry Cream Cheese Danish recipe is proof that a few simple ingredients can lead to extraordinary results. It’s easy, elegant, and absolutely irresistible. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a pastry that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat.