Cherry Cheese Danish is a delightful pastry that combines flaky, buttery dough with a creamy cheese filling and sweet, tangy cherry topping. This classic treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert. Easy to prepare using store-bought puff pastry, these Danishes offer a perfect balance of richness and fruitiness in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
  
  

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  
  

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  
  

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  
  

• 1/2 cup cherry pie filling or canned cherries
  
  

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  
  

• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  
  

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
   

2. In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
   
   

3. Unfold the puff pastry sheet and cut into 4 equal squares.
   
   

4. Place a spoonful of cream cheese mixture in the center of each square. Top with a spoonful of cherry pie filling.
   
   

5. Fold the corners of each square towards the center, pinching edges lightly to seal.
   
   

6. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
   
   

7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
   
   

8. Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per Danish, approx., makes 4):

• Calories: 320 kcal
  
  

• Total Fat: 20 g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 9 g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 70 mg
  
  

• Sodium: 150 mg
  
  

• Total Carbohydrates: 28 g
  
  

• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
  
  

• Sugars: 12 g
  
  

• Protein: 5 g