Cream Cheese Danish

A Cream Cheese Danish is a classic pastry with a rich, creamy filling nestled in flaky, golden puff pastry. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert and offers a luxurious bite that’s both tangy and sweet. Whether served warm from the oven or enjoyed at room temperature, this pastry brings a bakery-style treat right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make with store-bought puff pastry
• Customizable with fruit, nuts, or glaze
• Perfect for entertaining or a weekend brunch
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Great make-ahead option

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar or powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg yolk
• Pinch of salt
• 1 egg white or whole egg (for egg wash)
• Optional toppings: fruit preserves, fresh berries, chocolate chips
• Optional glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tsp milk or lemon juice

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, egg yolk, and salt until smooth.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 6 rectangles.
4. Score a 1/4-inch border around each rectangle and prick the centers with a fork.
5. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the center of each rectangle.
6. Add any desired toppings like fruit or jam.
7. Brush edges with egg wash.
8. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
9. Let cool slightly before drizzling with optional glaze.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Berry Danish: Add raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries on top of the filling before baking.
• Jam-Filled: Spoon a dollop of your favorite jam over the cream cheese before baking.
• Nut Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts on top for extra texture.
• Lemon Zest: Mix a little lemon zest into the filling for brightness.
• Savory Twist: Omit the sugar and add chives or herbs for a savory version.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover Danishes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–8 minutes or until warm and crisp.
• Avoid microwaving, as it softens the pastry.

FAQs

What kind of puff pastry should I use?

Use all-butter puff pastry if possible for the best flavor and flakiness. Thaw it according to the package directions before using.

Can I freeze cream cheese Danishes?

Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. Freeze unbaked Danishes on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes.

Why is my Danish soggy?

Overfilling or using very watery fruits can make the Danish soggy. Use just a spoonful of filling and thicker jams or fruit.

Can I use crescent roll dough instead of puff pastry?

Yes, crescent dough is a great shortcut and results in a softer, less flaky pastry.

How long can I keep cream cheese Danishes?

They’re best enjoyed within 2–3 days. Always store them in the refrigerator.

Can I make the filling ahead?

Absolutely. The cream cheese filling can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

What’s the best way to glaze Danishes?

Wait until the pastries are cool, then drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice.

Do I need to blind bake the pastry?

No, it’s not necessary. Scoring and docking the pastry helps it puff evenly around the filling.

Can I use a flavored cream cheese?

Yes, flavored cream cheese (like strawberry or honey walnut) can be used for a twist.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just use two puff pastry sheets and double the filling ingredients to make 12 Danishes.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Danishes are an easy and elegant pastry that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you want a sweet treat. With minimal ingredients and customizable toppings, you can whip up a batch in no time and impress your family or guests with bakery-quality results right from your oven.

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