Cherry Cheese Coffee Cake

There’s just something magical about a Cherry Cheese Coffee Cake. Imagine a delightful combination of rich, creamy cheesecake layered with a tart cherry pie filling, all resting atop a buttery coffee cake base. Finished off with a sprinkle of streusel topping, it’s a slice of heaven that you can enjoy at any time of the day. Whether you’re a cheesecake devotee or a coffee cake lover, this dessert is sure to win you over!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cherry Cheese Coffee Cake is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The creamy cheesecake, the sweet-tart cherry topping, and the soft, buttery coffee cake create a harmonious symphony in every bite. Plus, it’s versatile! Feel free to swap out the cherry pie filling for your favorite fruit, such as blueberry or peach.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• Baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Medium mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Pizza cutter

Ingredients

For the Coffee Cake:

• 2 packages (8 oz. each) refrigerated crescent rolls
• 1 package cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
• 1 (21 oz.) can cherry pie filling (or any fruit pie filling in syrup)

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 to 3 teaspoons milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 16 triangles. Set 4 triangles aside for later use.
3. On a baking sheet, arrange the remaining 12 triangles into a circle with the longer points in the center, but not touching. Roll the dough into a 14-inch circle, pressing the seams together and leaving a 3-inch hole in the center.
4. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture over the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch uncovered at the edges.
5. Top with the cherry pie filling.
6. Cut the 4 reserved triangles into thirds using a pizza cutter. Arrange these strips evenly over the filling and press the ends to seal at the center and outer edges.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown.
8. Once baked, drizzle the glaze over the top by mixing powdered sugar with milk to your desired consistency.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to achieve a smooth filling.
• Be gentle when rolling the crescent dough to avoid tearing.
• If the glaze is too thick, add more milk; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Experiment with different pie fillings to create new flavors.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 230
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare this cake in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cake a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the glaze before serving.

What other fillings can I use?

You can use any fruit pie filling you like, such as blueberry, peach, or apple.

Can I freeze this coffee cake?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

This Cherry Cheese Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it perfect for dessert or an indulgent breakfast. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with!