Cream Cheese Cherry Danish (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pastries

01 - 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions
02 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon almond extract
05 - 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling

→ Egg Wash

06 - 1 large egg, room temperature
07 - 1 tablespoon water

→ Topping

08 - Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

# Instructions:

01 - Heat your oven to 400°F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - On a lightly floured surface, cut each puff pastry sheet into 6 equal rectangles (about 4½x3 inches each), giving you 12 rectangles total.
03 - Place the pastry rectangles on your prepared baking sheets, leaving about an inch of space between each one.
04 - Using a fork, poke several holes in the middle of each pastry, leaving about a ½-inch border untouched around the edges. This creates a raised edge while keeping the center flat for fillings.
05 - In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with sugar and almond extract until smooth and well combined.
06 - Spread a heaping tablespoon of cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry, then top with about 2 heaping tablespoons of cherry pie filling.
07 - Whisk together the egg and water in a small bowl, then brush this mixture onto the outer edges of each pastry.
08 - Bake for 15-18 minutes until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
09 - Remove from the oven, dust with confectioners' sugar, and let cool slightly before serving.

# Notes:

01 - These cherry cream cheese danishes make a delightful breakfast treat or dessert.
02 - Recipe adapted from Amanda Rettke at iambaker.net