Easy Cream Cheese Danish: A Delightful Sweet Treat

Indulge in the flaky, creamy goodness of Easy Cream Cheese Danish, a simple yet scrumptious pastry that brings the charm of a bakery right into your kitchen. This recipe effortlessly marries the buttery flakiness of puff pastry with a rich cream cheese filling, creating a delightful breakfast or dessert option. Perfect for brunch gatherings or an afternoon snack, this Danish recipe is sure to impress with its luscious flavor and inviting aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Easy Cream Cheese Danish is a versatile pastry that can be enjoyed any time of day. Its irresistible combination of creamy filling and golden crust makes it a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or having a quiet morning at home, this Danish adds a touch of elegance and indulgence to your table.

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few common ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, the easy-to-follow steps ensure a flawless result every time. The perfect balance of tangy cream cheese and flaky pastry will have you coming back for more.

Ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers, this recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. It’s a wonderful way to treat yourself and loved ones to a homemade delight, creating cherished moments over a shared love of good food.

Context/Background

The Danish pastry has a storied history, originating in Vienna before becoming a beloved staple in Danish cuisine, thus earning its name. The classic Cream Cheese Danish is a favorite variation, known for its sweet, creamy center encased in a delicate, buttery crust. Over time, this recipe has been adapted to suit different palates, offering an endless array of delightful fillings.

Not only treasured in European bakeries, the Cream Cheese Danish has gained popularity worldwide for its blend of texture and taste. Learning to make this pastry at home brings a touch of European tradition to your own kitchen, celebrating the timeless appeal of beautifully crafted baked goods.

Recipe Details

Serves: 8

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 8 equal squares.
4. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each square.
5. Fold the corners of the puff pastry squares over the cream cheese to form a ‘Danish’ shape.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make an egg wash.
7. Brush the tops of the Danishes with the egg wash.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown.
9. Allow to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips for Perfect Easy Cream Cheese Danish

• Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling.
• Use a ruler to measure and cut even squares of puff pastry for uniform baking.
• Do not overfill the pastries to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
• For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Easy Cream Cheese Danish warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a classic combination. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey, providing a delightful touch of sweetness.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh the Danish, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cream Cheese Danish recipe offers a straightforward way to enjoy a taste of classic pastry indulgence. Whether you’re making them for a weekend treat or a special occasion, these Danishes are sure to delight with their buttery layers and creamy filling. Try them once, and they might just become a regular in your baking repertoire.

Recipe Notes

• For a twist, add a spoonful of fruit preserves alongside the cream cheese filling.
• Feel free to substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
• If desired, prepare a glaze with powdered sugar and milk to drizzle over the baked Danishes.