Love eating these at my local bakery but it can get pricey! This homemade version tastes even better!

Oh, cherries and their bright, cheerful color can surely bring a smile to anyone's face, especially when they're part of a delightful Cherry Danish. Picture a lazy Sunday morning, with the children playing outside and the kitchen warmed by the oven's embrace. That's where this simple, homey recipe comes in, crafting a moment, not just a dish. Originating from the bakeries of Denmark, a Danish pastry is a sweet treat loved across the globe. While it's a little bit of fancy baking, my twist with ready-made ingredients cuts corners without compromising on that from-scratch taste. Perfect for a special breakfast or a sweet snack for your family, this Easy Cherry Danish connects us to the joy of baking with a no-fuss approach.

Now, a cherry Danish can be quite the star on its own, but if you're looking to round out your breakfast table, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can be quite indulgent. For a healthier side, consider a fresh fruit salad or a bowl of creamy yogurt to complement the richness.

Easy Cherry Danish
Servings: 8

- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 teaspoon water (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking, shaping it into a 12-inch square.

3. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.

4. Spread the cream cheese mixture down the center of the puff pastry square, leaving about a 3-inch space on each side.

5. Top the cream cheese with cherry pie filling, laying it right down the heart of that smooth cheese layer.

6. With a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart along both the left and right sides of the cherry and cream cheese layers.

7. Fold the strips over the filling, alternating from side to side, to create a braided look.

8. Whisk the egg and water together to make an egg wash, then brush it over the pastry.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up proudly.

10. Allow to cool for a bit, then dust with powdered sugar for that pretty finish before slicing to serve.

- For those with an extra sweet tooth, drizzle a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk over the top once the Danish has cooled.
- Switch up the fillings! Blueberry or apple pie filling can work just dandily for a bit of variety.
- Trying to watch that sugar? Look for a no-sugar-added pie filling, and it'll be our little secret.
- And remember, every oven's a bit different, so keep an eye on your Danish as it bakes, especially if it's your first dance with this recipe. Once you see that golden color, it's time to pull it out.

Now, get your family in the kitchen for this one; the braiding step can be quite the giggle fest with the young'uns helping out. And sharing a warm, homemade treat with a glass of cold milk or a cup of joe, while wrapped up in the love of family, now that's what a home is all about. Happy baking, y'all!