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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.
Variations & Tips
- 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!
