Easy Cherry Danish
A deliciously easy cherry Danish features a rich buttery crust topped with sweet cherry filling, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Light, fruity, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease and flour a 9 x 13-inch pan; set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla and eggs, one at a time; beat well.
- Stir in sifted flour until well blended; batter will be stiff.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Mark off into 20 squares.
- Drop spoonfuls of cherry pie filling onto each square.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes.
- Cool and sprinkle with confectioners' sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using unsweetened applesauce instead of half the butter. Ensure the butter is softened for easier creaming, and be careful not to overmix the batter once the flour is added. You can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings, such as blueberry or peach, to create variations. For extra flavor, add almond extract alongside the vanilla.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cherry Danish warm, dusted with confectioners' sugar for a delightful finish. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence. A cup of coffee or tea complements the flavors beautifully, making it perfect for brunch or dessert. It also pairs well with the Peachy Lemon Pie for a fruity dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cherry Danish in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain freshness, or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cherry Danish contains roughly 347 calories, with 2g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 22g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries. Pit and slice them, then mix with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to thicken. Cook briefly on the stove until soft before dropping spoonfuls onto the batter. This will give your Danish a fresher taste and added texture.
What can I do if the batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too stiff, you can add a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Be cautious not to add too much liquid, as it may alter the final texture of the Danish.
Can I freeze the Cherry Danish?
Yes, you can freeze the Cherry Danish. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).