Cheese Danish

Flaky, buttery puff pastry, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet glaze combine to make these delicious homemade Cheese Danish pastries. They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a treat with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Made with store-bought puff pastry for convenience.
• Decadent Filling: A rich cream cheese filling with a hint of lemon and vanilla adds a luscious touch.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite fruits, chocolate chips, or jams.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunch, holidays, or everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pastry

• Puff pastry – 1 box (17.3oz OR 320g), thawed
• Egg – 1 (for egg wash)
• Water – 2 teaspoons

For the Filling

• Cream cheese, softened – 8 ounces (225 grams)
• Egg yolk, room temperature – 1
• Powdered sugar – ¼ cup (30 grams)
• Fresh lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
• Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
• Salt – ⅛ teaspoon

For the Glaze

• Powdered sugar – 1 cup
• Milk – 1–2 tablespoons

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, egg yolk, powdered sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Pastry

1. Roll out the puff pastry into a 12×12-inch square on a lightly floured surface.
2. Cut the pastry into 9 equal squares, about 4×4 inches each.
3. On each square, fold the corners towards the center and press gently to create a diamond shape.

Step 4: Fill and Egg Wash

1. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling into the center of each pastry.
2. Whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.
3. Brush the edges of each pastry with the egg wash to give them a golden finish during baking.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 16–18 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
3. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before glazing.

Step 6: Make the Glaze and Drizzle

1. In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar and 1–2 tablespoons of milk. Mix until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled pastries using a spoon or piping bag.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 9 pastries
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 38 minutes

Variations

• Fruit Danish: Add fresh berries or a dollop of fruit jam before baking for a fruity twist.
• Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle chocolate chips onto the cream cheese filling for a decadent treat.
• Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped nuts like almonds or pecans before baking.
• Lemon Glaze: Substitute milk in the glaze with lemon juice for extra zing.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled pastries individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 5–7 minutes for a freshly baked taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes, homemade puff pastry will work perfectly for this recipe.

2. Can I prepare these in advance?

You can prepare the pastries up to the point of baking, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor.

4. Can I skip the glaze?

The glaze is optional but adds a sweet finish. You can skip it if you prefer less sweetness.

5. What other shapes can I make?

You can fold the puff pastry into twists, braids, or even leave it flat for variety.

6. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Ensure the corners are firmly pressed down and avoid overfilling.

7. Can I use different extracts?

Yes, almond or orange extract can add a unique flavor twist.

8. How do I get the best puff pastry rise?

Keep the pastry cold before baking and avoid over-handling it.

9. Can I add toppings before baking?

Yes, sprinkle sliced almonds or coarse sugar for extra texture and flavor.

10. Are these pastries good for brunch?

Absolutely! Cheese Danishes are a classic addition to any brunch spread.

Conclusion

These Cheese Danish pastries are buttery, flaky, and filled with a luscious cream cheese center, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether served for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, their easy preparation and customizable options make them a must-try recipe. Bake a batch today and enjoy the irresistible charm of homemade pastries!

Print