Easy Cherry Danish

Directions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone liner. In a small bowl mix together cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until smooth and combined.

2. Step 2
   Unroll the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface and slice in half lengthwise. Cut each strip into 3 rectangles. Repeat with the second sheet of pastry.

3. Step 3
   Using a paring knife, create a 1/2 inch border around the edge of each piece of puff pastry. Make sure to not cut all the way through! Poke the center square of the puff pastry a few times with a fork, this will ensure the edges rise, but not the center. This helps hold the filling of the Danish.

4. Step 4
   Divide the cream cheese mixture between the pieces of puff pastry, making sure to only fill within the middle border. Smooth out the cream cheese in the middle as best as you can, making sure to not go passed the scored edges. Top with an equal amount of cherry fruit filling and desired amount of sliced almonds. Brush the edges of the Danish with the heavy cream.

5. Step 5
   Add to the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.

6. Step 6
   Optional: top with glaze 1 cup powdered sugar to 2 tablespoons heavy cream. Additional spices or flavorings can be added for additional flavor.