Enjoy flaky, buttery pastry with a creamy sweet cheese filling—perfect for breakfast or a treat!
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet (about 8 oz/225g) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- Flour for dusting
For the Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional)
For Assembly:
- 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
- Optional: fruit preserves (raspberry, blueberry) or fresh berries
For Glaze (optional):
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1–2 tsp milk or lemon juice
Instructions
- Prep:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Filling:
- In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Shape the Pastry:
- Unfold the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface. Roll gently to smooth seams.
- Cut into 9 squares (3×3 grid). Place on the baking sheet.
- Assemble:
- Spoon 1–2 tbsp filling into the center of each square. Optionally, top with 1 tsp fruit preserves.
- Fold two opposite corners toward the center, overlapping slightly (or fold all four corners to form a pinwheel). Press gently to seal.
- Bake:
- Whisk egg and water for the egg wash. Brush pastry edges lightly.
- Bake 15–18 minutes until golden and puffed. Cool 5 minutes on the tray.
- Glaze (Optional):
- Mix powdered sugar and milk/lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over warm Danishes.
Tips & Variations
- Time-Saver: Use store-bought puff pastry for ease.
- From-Scratch Dough: Substitute with homemade Danish dough (yeasted laminated dough) for a traditional texture.
- Add-Ins: Sprinkle with sliced almonds or a streusel topping before baking.
- Storage: Best fresh, but keep airtight for 1–2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
Enjoy your homemade Cheese Danishes with coffee or tea!
