Mini Cherry Cheese Danishes are a sweet, flaky, and creamy pastry treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime indulgence. These bite-sized beauties combine buttery crescent dough, smooth vanilla-kissed cream cheese, and a luscious cherry topping to create the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something decadent, this recipe delivers elegance without fuss.
Let’s explore every step of making these irresistible Mini Cherry Cheese Danishes from scratch, including ingredient breakdowns, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, low-carb variations, and answers to commonly asked questions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These mini danishes check every box:
- Quick and easy preparation using crescent roll dough
- Rich, creamy filling balanced with fruity cherry topping
- Perfect for parties, brunches, or a sweet treat for yourself
- Easily customizable with your favorite fruits or sugar alternatives
Ingredients
For the Danishes
- 1 package refrigerated crescent rolls (Pillsbury recommended)
- 1–2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for dusting)
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar or granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1 can cherry pie filling (about 20 oz)
For the Glaze
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (for light sprinkling or glaze base)
- 3 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Preheat your oven according to the crescent roll package directions (typically around 375°F/190°C).
- Dust your work surface lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
- Unroll the crescent dough onto the floured surface. Press the perforated seams gently to form a single smooth sheet.
- Cut the dough into equal-sized squares using a knife or pizza cutter. Aim for roughly 2×2 inch squares for bite-sized danishes.
Form and Fill
- Place the dough squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each.
- Create an indentation in the center of each square using your thumb or the back of a spoon to form a small well.
- Mix the filling by beating the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the cream cheese filling into the center of each square.
Add Cherry Topping
- Spoon a dollop of cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese layer. One or two cherries per danish is ideal for balance.
Bake to Perfection
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake according to package directions—typically 12–15 minutes—until golden brown and puffed.
Finish with Glaze
- Mix the glaze by combining granulated sugar and milk in a small bowl until sugar is dissolved.
- Brush glaze over danishes while still warm for a glossy, sweet finish.
Cool and Serve
Let the danishes cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm but still delicious at room temperature.
Helpful Tips for Success
- Soften cream cheese completely before mixing for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Don’t overfill—too much cream cheese or cherry filling can cause overflow during baking.
- Use parchment paper to ensure the danishes release easily and maintain their shape.
- Double the batch for brunch gatherings—these disappear fast!
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
Fun Flavor Variations
Alternate Fruit Fillings
Try swapping cherry pie filling with:
- Blueberry
- Strawberry
- Raspberry
- Apple cinnamon
- Peach preserves
Drizzle It Up
Once cooled, add a simple powdered sugar glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tsp milk + ½ tsp vanilla
- Drizzle with a fork or spoon in a zigzag motion
Add a Crunch
Sprinkle sliced almonds or crushed pecans on top before baking for added texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Options
You can still enjoy these treats while sticking to a keto or low-carb lifestyle with a few adjustments.
Keto Version
- Dough: Use a fathead dough made with almond flour and mozzarella.
- Filling: Replace sugar with powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Topping: Use a sugar-free cherry pie filling or cook down fresh cherries with erythritol and a splash of lemon.
Low-Carb Adaptation
- Reduce almond flour in the dough slightly and add a pinch of xanthan gum for elasticity.
- Be mindful of portion sizes—these treats are rich and satisfying even in smaller bites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen crescent roll dough?
Yes. Just make sure it’s completely thawed before unrolling and shaping.
Can these danishes be made in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble them the day before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them first with some sweetener and a touch of cornstarch to replicate the thickness of pie filling.
How do I store leftovers?
Place leftover danishes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them back up.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, you can freeze baked danishes. Let them cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven (not microwave) to preserve texture.
Final Thoughts
Mini Cherry Cheese Danishes are one of those foolproof recipes that look fancy but are delightfully easy to make. The contrast between buttery pastry, creamy vanilla filling, and sweet cherries makes for a harmonious flavor experience in every bite.
They’re an ideal choice for:
- Holiday brunches
- Baby showers or bridal parties
- Coffee mornings
- A sweet snack with tea
Customizable, beginner-friendly, and crowd-pleasing—this recipe is everything you want in a go-to baked treat.