Cheese Danish Recipe
A cheese danish is a flaky, buttery pastry filled with a creamy, slightly tangy cheese filling and finished with a sweet glaze. The puff pastry crisps beautifully in the oven, creating a light texture that contrasts with the rich filling. This easy, bakery-style treat is perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Equipment
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 batch of homemade puff pastry
Egg Wash
- 2 tsp water
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ¾ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup granulated sugar
Glaze
- 5 tbsp milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- If using homemade puff pastry, divide it in half and roll one portion into a 12x12” square.
- For store-bought pastry, ensure it's divided into two sheets.
- Cut the rolled pastry into four even squares and place them on a prepared baking sheet.
- Spoon about two tablespoons of filling into the center of each square.
- Fold the corners over the filling, leaving a small gap in the center and between folds.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together an egg and water to make an egg wash, then brush it generously over the pastries.
- Bake for 17-19 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Let the pastries cool before drizzling them with the glaze.
- Repeat the steps for the second portion of puff pastry.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- If using frozen puff pastry, work quickly, as it becomes sticky as it warms.
- To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling.