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Cherry Danish

Table of Contents
Indulge in a sweet, flaky treat with this delicious cherry Danish! This easy recipe combines buttery pastry with sweet cherry filling for a breakfast or dessert everyone will love. Perfect for busy mornings or a weekend brunch, this Danish will impress guests with its homemade taste. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a bakery-worthy snack in no time!
This cherry Danish recipe is quick and easy to make, and you can follow the step-by-step guide below. We’ve included helpful photos and detailed directions to ensure your Danish turns out perfectly. Plus, we share pro tips and tricks to help you master the recipe. Don’t forget to check out the FAQ section for answers to common questions!

This cherry Danish recipe takes less than 30 minutes to make, making it the perfect quick treat for any occasion. The crispy, buttery pastry and sweet cherry filling make every bite irresistible, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a brunch gathering.
Serve this Danish at your next party or potluck, and watch it disappear! It’s a showstopper with minimal effort and delivers bakery-quality taste right from your kitchen.
Ingredients for Cherry Danish

What you'll need to make this Cherry Danish recipe:
For the Danish
- 5 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup of granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon of almond extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon of water
- 2 (8-ounce) tubes of crescent rolls (chilled in the freezer for 30 minutes)
- 1 (21-ounce) can of cherry pie filling
- ¼ cup of slivered almonds, optional garnish
For The Glaze
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons of milk
Substitutions and Additions
Easy changes can make your fruit Danish uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Substitute Cherry Filling: Try blueberry or raspberry filling for a different fruity flavor.
Add Almond Extract: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese filling for extra depth of flavor.
How to Make Cherry Danish
Follow along with our step-by-step instructions and pictures to make this delicious cherry Danish. We’ve included helpful tips and tricks below to guide you. Let’s get started and create a tasty treat!
FIRST STEP: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
SECOND STEP: Using a medium bowl and a handheld electric mixer on medium-high speed, cream together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and almond extract until smooth. Set it aside.
Pro Tip
Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature so that you don’t end up with any lumps in your filling.
THIRD STEP: In a small mixing bowl, using a fork, beat the egg and water to make an egg wash. Set it aside.
FOURTH STEP: Open only one package of crescent rolls and remove them from the tube.
Do not unroll them; instead, keep them in the long cylinder shape and place them on the cutting board.
FIFTH STEP: Using a sharp knife, cut the long cylinder into 12 equal pieces.
Using your fingers and thumb, flatten each round circle in the middle. Place each circle on the prepared baking sheet two inches apart.

Pro Tip
The crescent rolls will dry out and not shape easily if left on the counter. This is why we recommend freezing them and then cooking them in batches.
SIXTH STEP: With a pastry brush, paint the edges and sides of the dough circle with the egg wash.
SEVENTH STEP: Using a small spoon, spoon a small amount of the cream cheese filling into the center of the crescent dough.

EIGHTH STEP: Using a small spoon, place two cherries on top of the cream cheese filling.
Pro Tip
Gently press the cherries down to make sure they stay centered. You can also use a fork to ensure a small amount of filling per Danish.

NINTH STEP: Bake in the oven for 10–11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the Danishes to cool for five minutes before drizzling with glaze.
Pro Tip
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to check your pastry at the lower end of the recommended baking time.

TENTH STEP: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until no lumps are visible.
Lightly drizzle the glaze over each Danish. You can garnish the Danish with a few sliced almonds.
ELEVENTH STEP: Open your second tube of crescent rolls and repeat.
How To Serve Cherry Danish
Cherry Danish is a versatile treat perfect for many occasions. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a special celebration, or just enjoying a cozy weekend morning, this recipe will impress! Here are a few great ways to serve it:
- Brunch or Breakfast: Serve this treat for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat. Its sweet filling and buttery pastry make it a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with a coffee smoothie or fresh orange Julius for the perfect morning spread.
- Holiday or Special Occasions: Cherry Danish adds a festive touch to any holiday or celebration. Whether it's Christmas, Easter, or a family get-together, it will make your event extra special. The vibrant cherry filling looks beautiful on any dessert table.
- Afternoon Tea or Snack: This Danish makes a great afternoon snack, perfect with tea or raspberry lemonade. Kids and adults alike love its sweet, flaky layers. It’s light enough for a treat but filling enough to curb hunger between meals.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Our Danish quickly became a favorite among readers for several delicious reasons:
- Perfect Blend of Flaky and Sweet: The crispy, buttery pastry combined with the sweet cherry filling creates the perfect balance of flavors. Every bite offers a light crunch followed by a burst of fruity sweetness, making it impossible to stop at just one.
- Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a special brunch, or a simple snack, this cherry Danish fits every occasion. Its beautiful presentation makes it a hit for both casual moments and festive celebrations.
- Easy to Make, Impressive to Serve: Despite its elegant look, this cherry danish is quick and easy to make. It’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers, delivering a showstopper with minimal effort.
Cherry Danish is the perfect treat that brings people together for every occasion!

Recipe FAQ
Can I make cherry Danish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pastry and filling ahead of time. Simply assemble and refrigerate before baking for fresh results later.
What’s the best way to store leftover cherry Danish?
Store leftover Danish in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate.
Can I freeze cherry Danish for later?
Yes, you can freeze the Danish after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in a freezer-safe bag.

ServingFAQ
What’s the best way to serve cherry Danish at a brunch?
Serve the cherry Danish in individual slices for easy sharing. Arrange them on a platter to make it visually appealing.
Can I serve cherry Danish as a dessert?
Yes, cherry Danish makes a delicious, sweet ending to any meal. Its flaky texture and fruity filling are crowd-pleasers.
Is cherry Danish good for a holiday breakfast?
Absolutely! Cherry Danish adds a festive touch to any holiday breakfast. Its bright color and sweet flavor make it perfect.
Should I serve cherry Danish warm or at room temperature?
Cherry Danish tastes great either way! Serve it warm for a comforting treat or at room temperature for a classic option.

Storage FAQ
For optimal storage of your cherry Danish, follow these directions, tips, and tricks. From making ahead to reheating, we’ve got you covered for enjoying this delicious treat anytime.
Can I make cherry Danish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Danish the night before. Refrigerate it unbaked, then bake fresh in the morning for a warm, flaky treat.
What’s the best way to store leftover cherry Danish?
Store leftover cherry Danish in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate.
Can I freeze cherry Danish?
Yes, you can freeze the Danish after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month.
How do I reheat frozen cherry Danish?
Thaw the Danish in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for five to ten minutes until warm.

Cherry Danish
Ingredients
- 5 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- ¼ cup sugar
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 16 ounces flaky crescent rolls (placed in the freezer for 30 minutes (two 8-ounce tubes))
- ¼ cup slivered almonds (optional)
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons whole milk
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper, set it aside.
- Using a medium bowl and a handheld electric mixer on medium-high speed, cream together the cream cheese, granulated sugar and almond extract until smooth. Set it aside.
- In a small mixing bowl using a fork, beat the egg and water to make an egg wash. Set it aside.
- Open only 1 package of crescent rolls, and remove them from the tube. Do not unroll them, instead, keep them in the long cylinder shape and place them on the cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the long cylinder into 12 equal pieces.
- Using your fingers and thumb, flatten each round circle in the middle. Place each circle on the prepared baking sheet 2 inches apart. With a pastry brush, paint the edges and sides of the dough circle with the egg wash.
- Using a small spoon, spoon a small amount of the cream cheese filling into the center of the crescent dough.
- Using a small spoon, place 2 cherries on top of the cream cheese filling.
- Bake in the oven for 10 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the Danishes to cool for 5 minutes before drizzling with glaze.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until no lumps are visible. Lightly drizzle the glaze over each Danish. You can garnish the Danish with a few sliced almonds.
- Open your second tube of crescent rolls and repeat.
Notes
- Recipe adapted from: https://thebestblogrecipes.com/blueberry-cream-cheese-danish/
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature so that you don’t end up with any lumps in your filling.
- The crescent rolls will dry out and not shape easily if left on the counter. This is why we recommend freezing them and then cooking them in batches.
- Gently press the cherries down to make sure they stay centered. You can also use a fork to ensure a small amount of filling per Danish.
- Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to check your pastry at the lower end of the recommended baking time.
Nutrition
Cheese Danish
Make this easy Cheese Danish recipe with simple ingredients and a rich, creamy filling. The golden, flaky crust bakes up perfectly every time. Serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert and enjoy a bakery-style treat at home.








Comments
Barbars says
Easy way to cut crescent rolls where you don't need to freeze them. Use thread or dental floss to cut the whole crescent roll in 12. Wrap a pice of either around roll and place where you want it sliced. Cross threads at top and pull threads down. Cuts nice clean slices! Been using this method for a long time making mini Carmel crescent buns.