Cherry Cream Cheese Danish (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pastries

01 - 2 sheets frozen puff pastry sheets, 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 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
02 - Lay the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface, and cut each sheet into 6 equal-sized rectangles (approximately 4½x3 inches). Arrange the 12 rectangles onto the lined baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between each.
03 - Use a fork to poke holes into the center of each pastry rectangle, leaving a ½-inch perimeter around the edges to allow the borders to puff up and hold the filling.
04 - In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and almond extract. Stir until fully blended.
05 - Spread 1 heaping tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each puff pastry. Top the cream cheese with 2 heaping tablespoons of cherry pie filling.
06 - In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the mixture onto the edges of each puff pastry.
07 - Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown. Optionally, dust with confectioners' sugar before serving.