Easy Cheese Danish Recipe

There’s something truly delightful about a freshly baked cheese danish. The flaky, buttery puff pastry combined with a creamy cheese filling makes for a perfect breakfast treat or an afternoon snack with coffee. This Easy Cheese Danish Recipe uses simple ingredients and is incredibly easy to whip up, even for novice bakers. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why It Works Every Time

The secret to achieving that luscious, creamy filling lies in the combination of cream cheese and sugar, perfectly balanced with the zest of lemon. The puff pastry serves as a light, flaky vessel that crisps up beautifully in the oven. By using thawed puff pastry, you save time without sacrificing quality, allowing you to enjoy homemade danishes that taste like they came from a bakery. Plus, the addition of fresh berries not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color and nutrition.

What Goes In

• 1 lb puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
• 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon zest from 1 lemon
• 1 1/2 cups berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• 1 egg
• 1 Tbsp water
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

Hardware & Gadgets

• Baking Sheet: A sturdy surface for baking your danishes.
• Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining your cream cheese filling ingredients.
• Rolling Pin: To roll out the puff pastry if needed.
• Whisk: For mixing the egg wash for a golden finish.

From Start to Finish: Easy Cheese Danish Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This allows your puff pastry to rise perfectly and achieve that golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets if needed. Cut each sheet into squares, about 4×4 inches. You can also opt for rectangles if you prefer.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Danishes

Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Top with a generous handful of fresh berries. Fold the corners of the pastry towards the center, pinching them together to create a little pocket.

Step 5: Prepare the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the danishes with the egg wash for that beautiful golden finish.

Step 6: Bake

Place the danishes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. The puff pastry should be crispy and flaky.

Step 7: Make the Glaze

While the danishes are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve

Once the danishes are baked and cooled slightly, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade Easy Cheese Danish Recipe!

Swap Guide

• Fruit Variations: Substitute berries with sliced apples, peaches, or cherries for a different flavor.
• Cheese Options: Use mascarpone or ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese for a lighter filling.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry if you need a gluten-free version.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Using cold cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Overworking the pastry: Handle the puff pastry as little as possible to maintain its flakiness.
• Skipping the egg wash: This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown finish.
• Not chilling the filling: If your filling is too warm, it may cause the pastry to become soggy.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare the cream cheese filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before using. The assembled danishes can also be frozen before baking. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought cream cheese frosting instead of the filling?

While you could use cream cheese frosting, it won’t have the same texture and flavor as the filling made with cream cheese, sugar, and egg yolk. For the best results, stick to the recommended filling.

What type of berries work best for this recipe?

Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are all great choices. You can also mix them for a colorful and flavorful variety!

Can I make these danishes without eggs?

Yes, you can make an egg-free version by using a flax egg or applesauce in the filling. However, the egg wash can be replaced with a milk wash or simply omitted for a less shiny finish.

What should I serve with cheese danishes?

Cheese danishes pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a more filling breakfast, serve them alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad.

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In Closing

The beauty of this Easy Cheese Danish Recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite fruits and flavors, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these danishes are sure to become a beloved treat in your home. Happy baking!