Cheese Danish is a delicious, flaky pastry filled with a sweet and creamy cheese mixture. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat, these pastries are elegant yet easy to make at home.

Ingredients List

Pastry Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Cheese Filling Ingredients

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: zest of 1 lemon

Optional Toppings

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Fresh berries
• Apricot jam glaze

Timing

Preparing Cheese Danish takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 25-30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Pastry

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut Pastry: Roll out puff pastry sheet and cut into squares (about 4×4 inches).

Step 3: Assemble the Danishes

1. Add Filling: Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of cheese mixture into the center of each pastry square.
2. Fold Edges: Fold the corners or edges toward the center, leaving some filling exposed.
3. Brush with Egg: Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake: Place pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Optional Toppings: Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with apricot glaze, or top with fresh berries.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Protein	5g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or almond extract to the cheese filling.
• Fruit Fillings: Mix in jam or fresh berries with the cheese filling for extra flavor.
• Pastry Options: Use homemade puff pastry or store-bought sheets for convenience.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with coffee, tea, or a fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast or brunch.
• Pair with a light glaze or drizzle of chocolate for dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overfilling Pastry: Too much filling can leak during baking; use moderate amounts.
2. Underbaking: Make sure pastries are golden brown and puffed for the perfect texture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Cheese Danish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

In about 25-30 minutes, you can create Cheese Danish, a sweet, flaky, and creamy pastry perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Customize with your favorite flavors and toppings to make it your own!

FAQs

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the cheese filling in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.

Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes! Thaw it according to package instructions before assembling the Danish.

Can I add fruit to the filling?

Absolutely! Fresh or cooked fruit can be added to the cheese filling for extra flavor and sweetness.