Description
This irresistibly flaky fruit and cream cheese Danish combines buttery puff pastry with a luscious cream cheese filling and fresh fruit topping. Easy to prepare and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert, these Danish pastries are golden, tender, and packed with delightful flavors that you’ll adore.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry and Egg Wash
- 1 sheet Puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 large Egg (beaten)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz Cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup Powdered sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon (optional)
Fruit Topping
- 1 cup Fresh fruit (chopped – berries, peaches, or apples)
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using). Mix well until smooth and evenly blended to create a creamy, sweet filling base.
- Prepare the puff pastry: Lay the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into 6 equal squares. Transfer the squares to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Assemble the Danish pastries: Spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese filling into the center of each pastry square, spreading slightly but leaving borders around the edges. Add the chopped fresh fruit on top of the cream cheese filling, distributing evenly.
- Shape and seal: Fold the corners of each pastry square towards the center over the filling or gently fold the sides to create a neat edge around the filling, ensuring it stays contained during baking.
- Brush with egg wash: Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the edges and surfaces of the assembled pastries with the beaten egg. This will give the Danish a beautiful golden color and shiny finish once baked.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Danish pastries on the middle rack for about 20-25 minutes or until puffed, golden brown, and cooked through.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the Danish pastries cool on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- Fresh fruit options include berries, peaches, or apples; you can mix or match according to your preference.
- The optional cinnamon in the cream cheese adds a warm, spicy note but can be omitted for a cleaner flavor.
- For a more decadent finish, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk once cooled.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving.
