Cream Cheese Danish
A delightful pastry that's creamy in the middle and flaky on the outside, perfect for indulging in a bakery-style treat at home.
Ingredients
Danish Pastry Ingredients
- 1 sheet Puff pastry sheets Store bought, thawed in the fridge.
- 8 oz Cream cheese Full fat, softened for smooth mixing.
- 1/4 cup Sugar Regular granulated sugar, adjust to taste.
- 1 large Egg Used for filling and egg wash.
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract Enhances the filling flavor.
- a pinch Salt Balances sweetness.
- optional Optional toppings (jam, lemon zest, powdered sugar glaze) Customize as desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and spreadable.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unfold the puff pastry and cut it into 6 to 8 rectangles based on your size preference.
- Score a border around each rectangle, about half an inch from the edges, and poke the center area with a fork.
- Spoon a couple tablespoons of cream cheese filling into the center of each rectangle, adding a spoonful of jam if desired.
- Brush the scored border with the egg wash (beaten egg with a splash of water).
Baking
- Bake for about 16-20 minutes, until edges are puffed and golden, with a creamy center.
- Let the danishes cool for at least 10 minutes before glazing.
Glazing
- For a quick glaze, mix powdered sugar with milk and a splash of vanilla, then drizzle over the cooled danishes.
Notes
For best results, keep the pastry cold to ensure it puffs well. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.