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Cheese Danish

Cheese Danish

The Cheese Danish is a luscious pastry featuring flaky, buttery puff pastry layered with a smooth, tangy cream cheese filling. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack, this classic dessert balances creamy texture with a crisp, golden crust and can be customized with fruits, nuts, or alternative cheeses for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)

Cheese Filling

  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp lemon zest

Finishing

  • 1 egg yolk, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring the sweetness and flavors are evenly blended.
  2. Prepare the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to your desired thickness. Cut the pastry into approximately 4×4-inch squares to serve as individual Danish bases.
  3. Assemble the Cheese Danish: Spoon a generous amount of the cheese filling into the center of each pastry square. Fold the corners of the pastry toward the center or leave open as preferred to create your desired Danish shape.
  4. Egg Wash and Baking: Gently brush the exposed pastry edges with beaten egg yolk to promote a glossy golden finish. Place the assembled Danishes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
  5. Finishing Touches: Allow the Cheese Danishes to cool slightly after baking. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey or glaze to add sweetness and enhance presentation.

Notes

  • Keep all ingredients cold to maintain a flaky pastry texture and a firm filling.
  • Do not overfill the pastry squares to prevent leakage during baking.
  • Apply egg wash carefully only to the pastry edges to avoid sogginess in the filling area.
  • Bake on parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
  • Let the Danishes cool slightly before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheese Danish, puff pastry, cream cheese pastry, sweet pastry, breakfast dessert, flaky pastry, homemade cheese Danish