There’s just something magical about the smell of warm pastry drifting through your kitchen on a lazy morning. And when that pastry happens to be buttery, golden, and stuffed with sweet-tart cherry filling? Pure bliss. This Shortcut Cherry Danish is here to bring bakery-level vibes straight to your home—with none of the fuss. Think flaky layers, gooey fruit, and a sweet glaze that drips just right. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this one in your back pocket.
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Whether you’re whipping up a last-minute brunch treat or simply craving something cozy to go with your coffee, this recipe delivers big flavor without breaking a sweat. Let’s be real: we all deserve a little flaky indulgence now and then, especially when it’s this easy.
Why You’ll Love Shortcut Cherry Danish
Versatile
Perfect for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, or whenever that sweet tooth strikes. Pop these in the oven while you get ready, and you’ll have warm, homemade goodness in no time.
Budget-Friendly
Made with just a handful of common ingredients, this recipe is big on taste without being hard on your wallet. No fancy pastry chef skills required—just simple ingredients coming together beautifully.
Quick and Easy
This shortcut method skips the complicated dough-making. Thanks to store-bought puff pastry or crescent roll dough, you’ll have these danishes ready before your coffee even cools.
Customizable
Not feeling cherries today? Swap in your favorite fruit filling—apple, blueberry, lemon, you name it. Want to add a little tang? A smear of cream cheese under the fruit filling adds an extra layer of richness.
Crowd-Pleasing
Kids, adults, picky eaters—everyone loves a flaky pastry filled with fruity goodness. Serve these at brunch or bring them to a potluck and watch them disappear.
Ingredients in Shortcut Cherry Danish
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Puff Pastry or Crescent Roll Dough: This is your shortcut superstar. It gives that gorgeous, flaky texture without any of the kneading or rising time.
Cherry Pie Filling: Sweet, tart, and vibrant—this is what brings the bold fruity punch to each bite. Bonus: it’s already made for you!
Egg Wash: Just a simple beaten egg brushed over the pastry gives you that beautiful golden color and bakery-worthy finish.
Vanilla Glaze: A quick mix of powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla creates a silky drizzle that takes these from great to “can I have another?”
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 375°F (or as directed by your pastry packaging). This ensures the pastry cooks up perfectly golden and flaky.
Prepare the Dough: Unroll your puff pastry or crescent roll dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If using crescent dough, press the seams together to form a solid sheet.
Add the Filling: Spoon a generous dollop of cherry pie filling onto the center of each square or triangle, depending on how you shape your dough.
Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over the filling (you can make them into rectangles, pinwheels, or little pockets—have fun with it!). Press the edges lightly with a fork to seal.
Apply the Egg Wash: Brush each pastry with a bit of egg wash for that glossy, golden finish.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deeply golden. Keep an eye on them—ovens vary!
Cool and Glaze: Let them cool slightly before drizzling the vanilla glaze over the top. It’ll set just enough while still staying luscious.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm or room temp (they’re delicious either way). Pair with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk—whatever feels cozy to you.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Serve Shortcut Cherry Danish
These danishes are delightful as-is, but here are some fun ways to make them shine even brighter:
Brunch Boards: Arrange them on a platter with fresh fruit, cheese, and mini muffins for a brunch board that looks as good as it tastes.
Coffee Companion: Perfect with your morning brew or an afternoon latte. Dust with powdered sugar for that extra bakery look.
Fancy It Up: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for dessert vibes.
Mini Style: Make smaller, bite-sized versions for parties or kid-friendly snacks.
Garnish Goals: Sprinkle with toasted almonds, coconut flakes, or even a few chocolate shavings for extra texture and flavor.
Additional Tips
Use Cold Dough: Keep the dough chilled until ready to use. It’s easier to handle and puffs up better in the oven.
Don’t Overfill: As tempting as it is, too much filling can cause leaks. A heaping spoonful is plenty!
Make It Ahead: Assemble the danishes, then refrigerate them (covered) overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
Store Leftovers: Keep any extras in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Freeze for Later: Freeze unbaked danishes for up to a month. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different fruit filling?
A1: Absolutely! Blueberry, apple, raspberry—they all work beautifully. Go with your favorite or mix two together for a fun twist.
Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can assemble the danishes and refrigerate them overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for best results.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep them in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days. To re-crisp, warm them in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.
Q4: Can I freeze these danishes?
A4: Definitely. Freeze unbaked or baked danishes. If baked, let them cool completely before freezing. Thaw and reheat in the oven to refresh.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat them?
A5: Use a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you can—it can make them soggy.
Q6: Can I add cream cheese?
A6: Yes! Spread a little sweetened cream cheese on the dough before adding the cherry filling for an extra rich, tangy layer.
Q7: What if I don’t have puff pastry?
A7: Crescent roll dough works great and is super easy to handle. You could also try biscuit dough, though it will have a softer, more cakey texture.
Q8: Can I glaze them with something else?
A8: Try a lemon glaze for a citrusy twist or a chocolate drizzle if you’re feeling indulgent.
Q9: Are these kid-friendly?
A9: Very! They’re fun to eat, easy to hold, and just sweet enough to be a treat without going overboard.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Totally! Just use an extra baking sheet and rotate the pans halfway through for even browning.
Conclusion
These Shortcut Cherry Danishes are proof that baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be absolutely divine. With just a few ingredients and a sprinkle of love, you can create something that looks impressive, tastes amazing, and makes your kitchen smell like a dream. Whether you’re baking for your family, your friends, or just yourself (because yes, you deserve it), this recipe is here to bring the joy. Happy baking, friend!
Print
Shortcut Cherry Danish
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Shortcut Cherry Danish is an easy and delicious pastry made with crescent dough, sweetened cream cheese, and cherry pie filling—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 ounce) tube crescent dough sheet
- 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
- 1/2 cup cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup confectioners sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk, or as needed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, white sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
- Unroll the crescent dough sheet and cut into rectangles or squares, depending on your preferred danish size.
- Place each rectangle on the prepared baking sheet. Press slightly to flatten.
- Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each piece of dough.
- Add a spoonful of cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Fold or pinch the edges slightly if desired, to help contain the filling.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
- While baking, prepare glaze by whisking together confectioners sugar, milk, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over warm danishes before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
- Try with other pie fillings like blueberry or apple for variety.
- Let danishes cool slightly before glazing to prevent melting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat briefly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 danish
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg