Cherry Cheese Danish

These Cherry Cheese Danishes are the perfect balance of flaky, buttery puff pastry and smooth, creamy filling, with the sweet tang of cherries adding the finishing touch. The combination of cream cheese and cherry jam makes for a rich, indulgent centre, while the puff pastry gives each bite a satisfying crunch.

1. Ingredients:
   • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed, if frozen)
   • 150g cream cheese, softened
   • 2 tablespoons icing sugar
   • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 1/4 cup cherry jam or fresh cherries
   • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
   • 1 tablespoon water
   • 1 tablespoon sliced almonds (optional, for topping)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares (about 4-6 squares depending on the size you prefer).
3. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
4. Place a dollop of the cream cheese mixture in the centre of each pastry square.
5. Spoon a small amount of cherry jam or place a few fresh cherry halves on top of the cream cheese mixture.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry towards the centre, pinching the corners slightly to form a neat parcel.
7. Mix the beaten egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash.
8. Optionally, sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the pastries for a bit of crunch and added flavour.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
10. Allow the danishes to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes | Total Time: 28 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 6 danishes