Easy Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
This quick and easy Cream Cheese Danish recipe uses store-bought puff pastry or crescent roll dough for a flaky, buttery base filled with sweet, creamy cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack!
Ingredients
For the Danish:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (8 oz) crescent roll dough or 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Shape the Dough:
- If using crescent roll dough, unroll it and pinch the seams together to create a single sheet. If using puff pastry, roll it out slightly to smooth the edges.
- Cut the dough into rectangles or squares, depending on your desired size (about 4–6 pieces).
- Fill the Danish:
- Place a dollop of the cream cheese mixture (about 1–2 tablespoons) in the center of each piece of dough. Fold the corners slightly over the filling or leave it open for a classic look.
- Brush with Egg Wash:
- Lightly brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg to give it a golden, shiny finish when baked.
- Bake:
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Make the Glaze (Optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled pastries.
- Serve:
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
- Add fruit toppings like fresh berries, sliced peaches, or a spoonful of jam on top of the cream cheese filling for extra flavor.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle with sliced almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a fresh taste.
Enjoy your flaky, creamy, and sweet Cream Cheese Danishes! 🥐✨