Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever savored a pastry that seemed to melt in your mouth, blending the sweetness of cherries with the rich texture of cream cheese? The Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond‑Topped Pastry for Brunch is not just a treat; it’s an experience. Picture this: a golden, flaky crust topped with luscious cherry filling and smooth cream cheese, all finished with a delightful almond crunch. This dish is perfect for any brunch gathering or special occasion where you want to impress your guests.
As I recall my childhood weekends filled with the scent of baking pastries wafting through the house, I can’t help but feel nostalgic. My grandmother would whip up her famous cherry danish every Sunday morning, filling our home with warmth and sweetness. Today, I’m excited to share this recipe that captures those memories and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a brunch party or simply indulging on a leisurely weekend morning, this Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish will not only satisfy your cravings but also elevate your culinary skills.
Key Ingredients For Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond‑Topped Pastry for Brunch
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating the pastry base; choose high-quality flour for the best texture.
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Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for a flakier pastry; remember to cut it into small cubes before mixing.
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Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to both the pastry and the cherry filling; adjust according to taste.
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Fresh Cherries: Opt for ripe cherries to ensure maximum flavor; you can also use frozen cherries if fresh are unavailable.
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Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy texture in the filling.
For the Topping:
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Sliced Almonds: Provides a crunchy topping that complements the softness of the danish; lightly toast them for enhanced flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond‑Topped Pastry for Brunch
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step: Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. Add cold butter cubes and mix until you achieve a crumbly texture. Gradually add ice-cold water until the dough comes together. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Second Step: Make the Filling
In another bowl, blend softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Stir in chopped fresh cherries gently. This mixture will create a luscious filling that contrasts beautifully with the flaky pastry.
Third Step: Roll Out Dough
Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick. Cut into squares or rectangles based on your preference.
Fourth Step: Assemble Danish
Place spoonfuls of cherry cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry square. Fold over corners toward the center and pinch them together to seal. Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Fifth Step: Add Toppings
Sprinkle sliced almonds generously over each assembled danish before placing them in the oven. This adds both flavor and crunch.
Sixth Step: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm alongside coffee or tea for an unforgettable brunch experience!
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
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Chill Your Ingredients: Keeping your butter and dough cold helps create that perfect flaky texture everyone loves.
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Experiment with Fillings: While cherries are delicious, try other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variety.
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Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Presentation Ideas
This Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond‑Topped Pastry for Brunch is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
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Coffee or Tea: Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea to enhance the flavors of the pastry. The warm beverages complement the creamy filling and sweet cherry topping perfectly.
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Fresh Fruit: Add a side of fresh fruit like berries or sliced oranges. These fruits provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cream cheese and buttery pastry.
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Whipped Cream: For an indulgent touch, top your Danish with a dollop of whipped cream. This addition elevates the dessert experience, making it even more delightful.
Serving Suggestions
When serving this Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond‑Topped Pastry for Brunch, consider arranging them on a beautiful platter. You can dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. To make it more appealing, place some fresh cherries or almonds around the pastries, creating a colorful and inviting display.
Storage Tips
To maintain the freshness of your Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond‑Topped Pastry for Brunch, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature before serving to restore their flaky texture.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different fillings to give your Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond‑Topped Pastry for Brunch a unique twist. You can substitute cherries with blueberries, strawberries, or even apricots. Each fruit lends its own flavor profile and complements the cream cheese beautifully.
FAQs
What is the best way to serve Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish?
The best way to serve your Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond‑Topped Pastry for Brunch is warm. This enhances its flavors and textures. Pairing it with coffee or tea creates a delightful brunch experience. Adding fresh fruits as sides not only complements the dish but also adds color and freshness.
Can I make Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare your Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond‑Topped Pastry for Brunch ahead of time. Prepare the pastries and store them uncooked in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them as directed. This makes it convenient for brunch gatherings without compromising quality.
How do I know when my Danish is baked properly?
Your Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond‑Topped Pastry for Brunch should be golden brown when fully baked. Additionally, you can check if it’s firm to the touch and if the filling bubbles slightly through the center. A thermometer reading around 190°F will also indicate that it’s cooked thoroughly.
Can I freeze my leftover Danish?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers of your Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond‑Topped Pastry for Brunch. Wrap each pastry tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish – Buttery Almond-Topped Pastry for Brunch
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of our Best Cherry Cream Cheese Danish. This buttery pastry features a flaky crust filled with rich cream cheese and sweet cherries, all crowned with a crunchy almond topping. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a leisurely morning treat, this recipe evokes nostalgia while elevating your culinary skills.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add ice-cold water until dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Fold in cherries gently.
- Roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick; cut into squares.
- Place a spoonful of cherry filling in the center of each square. Fold corners toward the center to seal.
- Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Danish (76g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
