Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Cream Cheese Danish Pastries are a classic breakfast treat featuring a flaky puff pastry shell filled with a sweetened cream cheese mixture, topped with a light lemon glaze for a touch of brightness. These easy pastries are ideal for serving at brunch gatherings, during holidays, or simply to treat yourself. With a few simple ingredients, you can make bakery-style pastries right at home!
Ingredients
For the Pastries:
- 1 package (2 sheets) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh berries (such as blueberries or raspberries)
- Sliced almonds
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into 9 equal squares (18 squares total).
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- Mix the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, egg yolk, and flour together until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Pastries
- Shape the Pastry Squares: Take each puff pastry square and lightly press the center to create a small indentation where the filling will go. You can also fold the edges slightly to help keep the filling in place during baking.
- Add the Cream Cheese Filling: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry square. Spread it slightly, keeping it away from the edges.
- Optional Toppings: Add a few fresh berries or sprinkle some sliced almonds on top of the cream cheese filling if desired.
4. Apply Egg Wash and Bake
- Make the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water.
- Brush the Pastries: Brush the edges of each pastry with the egg wash to give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
- Bake: Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
5. Make the Lemon Glaze
- Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.
6. Glaze and Serve
- Cool Pastries: Allow the pastries to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle with Glaze: Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled pastries.
- Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy these delightful cream cheese Danish pastries!
Cooking Notes
- Puff Pastry: Make sure to keep the puff pastry cold until you’re ready to work with it to ensure the pastries puff up properly.
- Filling: Do not overfill the pastries, as the cream cheese mixture can overflow and make the pastries messy.
Variations
- Fruit-Filled Danish: Add a teaspoon of fruit preserves (such as raspberry, apricot, or strawberry) on top of the cream cheese filling before baking for a fruity variation.
- Almond Danish: Add 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese filling and sprinkle sliced almonds on top for an almond-flavored Danish.
- Nutella Danish: Add a small dollop of Nutella along with the cream cheese filling for a chocolate-hazelnut twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Cream Cheese Danish Pastries ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pastries and refrigerate them (covered) for up to 1 day before baking. Bake them fresh to ensure the best texture and flavor. Alternatively, bake them and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days.
How do I store leftover Danish pastries?
Store leftover pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes to bring back the flakiness.
Can I freeze Danish pastries?
Yes, you can freeze baked Danish pastries. Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven before serving.
Can I use a different type of pastry for this recipe?
Puff pastry works best for that flaky texture, but you can also use crescent roll dough for a simpler, slightly different version of these pastries.
What can I serve with Cream Cheese Danish Pastries?
These pastries are wonderful with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or as an afternoon treat. They also pair well with fresh fruit or a glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Cream Cheese Danish Pastries are a delightful way to bring a taste of the bakery to your home. The flaky puff pastry, creamy sweetened cream cheese filling, and the bright lemon glaze make for a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re making them for a special breakfast, brunch, or just a sweet treat, these easy pastries are sure to impress.
Try this recipe and enjoy the wonderful combination of creaminess, flakiness, and sweetness in every bite!
