Almond Cheese Danish

Steps

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1. 1
   Combine softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, almond extract, salt, and lemon zest in a bowl. Mix with a spatula first, then switch to a whisk and beat until smooth and creamy with a beautiful golden-yellow color.
   ▶ ≈0:21
2. 2
   Lay out the thawed puff pastry. Gently stretch the center to make it slightly longer, then use scissors or a knife to make small slits along both sides, being careful not to cut all the way to the center to maintain the integrity of the middle strip.
   ▶ ≈0:59
3. 3
   Spoon the cream cheese filling down the center of the pastry and smooth it out. Top with the cherry pie filling.
   ▶ ≈1:51
4. 4
   Take the dough strips from each side and pinch them together alternately down the length of the pastry, creating a braided or twisted appearance.
   ▶ ≈2:24
5. 5
   Brush the entire pastry with egg wash, then sprinkle with a little sugar and sliced almonds.
   ▶ ≈2:50
6. 6
   Place the prepared Danish in the freezer for 10 minutes to set slightly while preheating the oven to 375°F.
   ▶ ≈3:02
7. 7
   Bake the Danish in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
   ▶ ≈3:08
8. 8
   Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, a drizzle of milk or heavy cream, and a drop of lemon juice until you reach a glaze-like consistency.
   ▶ ≈3:14
9. 9
   Allow the baked Danish to cool completely. Optionally top with powdered sugar or drizzle with the prepared lemon glaze before serving.
   ▶ ≈3:34