Mini Cherry Cheese Danishes Recipe

Mini Cherry Cheese Danishes

Introduction

Welcome to this delicious recipe for Mini Cherry Cheese Danishes. These bite-sized pastries are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of the day. With a buttery crust, creamy cheese filling, and a burst of cherry flavor, these danishes are sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to create these delectable pastries.

Ingredients

For the crust:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 cup ice water

For the filling:

– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/2 cup cherry preserves

For the glaze:

– 1/2 cup powdered sugar

– 1-2 tablespoons milk

– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt for the crust. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

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

4. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

5. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles, approximately 3 inches in diameter.

6. Place the dough circles onto the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a tablespoon of the cream cheese filling onto the center of each circle, leaving a small border around the edges.

7. Top the cream cheese filling with a teaspoon of cherry preserves.

8. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating a rustic, danish-style pastry.

9. Bake the danishes in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

10. While the danishes are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.

11. Remove the danishes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the top of each pastry.

12. Serve the Mini Cherry Cheese Danishes warm and enjoy!

Keto and Low Carb Variations

For a keto-friendly version of these danishes, you can replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour. Use a low-carb sweetener in place of granulated sugar and opt for sugar-free cherry preserves.

Additionally, you can reduce the amount of cherry preserves used or replace them with fresh berries to further reduce the carbohydrate content.

Tips

– Make sure the butter for the crust is cold. This will help create a flaky texture.

– If you don’t have cherry preserves, you can use any other fruit preserves or jam of your choice.

– Feel free to add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream on top of the danishes for extra sweetness.

– These danishes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Mini Cherry Cheese Danishes are a delightful treat that combines the richness of cream cheese, the sweetness of cherry preserves, and the flakiness of a buttery crust. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast or as a dessert, these mini pastries are sure to impress. Try out this recipe and savor the heavenly flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cherries instead of cherry preserves?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Thaw them before using and make sure to drain any excess liquid.

2. Can I freeze the Mini Cherry Cheese Danishes?

Yes, you can freeze the danishes before baking them. Simply assemble the pastries and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. When ready to bake, simply follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.