Easy Cheese Danish Recipe

This Easy Cheese Danish Recipe is a delightful, flaky pastry filled with a creamy, slightly sweet cheese filling. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these danishes are simple to make but taste like they came from a high-end bakery.

The buttery layers of puff pastry combined with the velvety filling make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re hosting guests or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is a surefire hit!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Pastry brush

Ingredients Overview

• Puff Pastry: The base of the danish, offering a buttery, flaky texture.
• Cream Cheese: Creates the rich, creamy filling.
• Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheese filling.
• Egg: Used to create a golden crust and bind the filling.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg yolk (reserve the white for brushing)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for dusting)
• Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry slightly to smooth the seams. Cut into 4 equal squares.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Beat until smooth and creamy.
4. Spoon about a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each puff pastry square. Spread slightly, leaving the edges clear.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry inward, creating a border around the filling. Pinch the corners gently to seal.
6. In a small bowl, whisk the egg white and brush it over the edges of the pastry for a golden finish.
7. Place the danishes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
8. Let the danishes cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Roll out the puff pastry, prepare the cheese filling, and assemble the danishes. Bake until golden, and enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture.