Mini Cherry Cheese Danishes

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Flaky, buttery puff pastry filled with sweet cream cheese and cherry topping — these little pastries are bite-sized delights, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a dessert tray.

Ingredients

For the Danish:

  • 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
  • 1 package (8 oz / 225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons milk

For the Topping:

  • 1 can (21 oz / 595 g) cherry pie filling
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Optional Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Puff Pastry
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly flour a surface and roll out puff pastry sheets.
  • Cut into 2-inch squares for mini danishes.
  1. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
  • In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  1. Assemble the Danishes
  • Place pastry squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press down the center of each square to create a small well.
  • Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center.
  • Top with 1–2 cherries and a little syrup from the pie filling.
  1. Egg Wash
  • Beat the egg with milk.
  • Brush edges of pastry squares for a golden brown finish.
  1. Bake
  • Bake for 15–18 minutes, until puffed and golden.
  1. Add Glaze (Optional)
  • Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla together.
  • Drizzle over cooled danishes.
  1. Serve
  • Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
  • Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

  • Swap cherry topping for blueberry, apple, strawberry, or peach.
  • Add a pinch of lemon zest to the cream cheese for brightness.
  • Use homemade cherry compote for a fresher taste.
  • Can be baked ahead and stored in an airtight container for 2–3 days.

Benefits

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
  • Versatile – Works with any fruit topping.
  • Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for parties, brunch, or holidays.
  • Portion Control – Mini size makes them easy to serve and enjoy.

Conclusion

Mini Cherry Cheese Danishes are a perfect balance of crispy puff pastry, creamy filling, and sweet cherries. They look elegant but are surprisingly simple to make, making them a go-to treat when you want something impressive yet easy. Whether you serve them at a holiday brunch, afternoon tea, or just as a quick sweet bite, they will always bring smiles to the table.

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