Heavenly Cheese Danish Recipe
Introduction
Heavenly Cheese Danish is a delightful pastry that combines flaky puff pastry with a creamy, sweet cheese filling. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and combined.
- Step 3: Roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut it into rectangles, about 3×4 inches each.
- Step 4: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each rectangle. Fold the edges up slightly to contain the filling.
- Step 5: Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the edges of each pastry for a golden finish.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and allow the danishes to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For added texture, sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top before baking.
- Try adding fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for a fruity twist.
- If you prefer a tangier filling, add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.
Storage
Store leftover cheese danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore crispness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe?
Yes, frozen puff pastry works well. Just thaw it according to the package instructions before using.
Can I make the filling in advance?
Absolutely. You can prepare the cream cheese filling a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Bring it to room temperature before assembling the danishes for easier spreading.
PrintHeavenly Cheese Danish Recipe
Heavenly Cheese Danish features flaky puff pastry filled with a smooth, sweetened cream cheese mixture infused with vanilla and a hint of lemon zest. This elegant yet simple pastry is perfect for breakfast or a delightful dessert, baked to golden perfection for a crisp outer layer and creamy center.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 Cheese Danishes 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. This filling provides a rich, sweet flavor base for the danish.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into rectangles, approximately 3×4 inches each, depending on your desired danish size.
- Fill and Shape Danishes: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry rectangle. Fold the edges slightly toward the center, pinching if necessary to hold the filling and create a border.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the surface and edges of each danish with the beaten egg. This step ensures a beautiful golden-brown finish when baked.
- Bake the Danishes: Arrange the prepared danishes on the lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the danishes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a delightful treat.
Notes
- For a more decadent touch, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk once cooled.
- You can add fresh fruit such as blueberries or raspberries on top of the cream cheese filling before baking for added flavor.
- If using frozen puff pastry, ensure it is fully thawed but kept cool before cutting and baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and refreshed in a warm oven before serving.
Keywords: Cheese Danish, Puff Pastry Recipe, Breakfast Pastry, Cream Cheese Danish, Easy Danish, Homemade Danish
