Homemade Cheese Danish

If you’re looking for a breakfast or brunch treat that tastes like it came straight from your favorite bakery, then this cheese Danish recipe is just what you need. With its flaky layers of buttery puff pastry and a luscious cream cheese filling, it’s an easy, impressive pastry that brings joy to any table. Whether you’re hosting brunch, planning a cozy family breakfast, or simply craving something warm and indulgent with your morning coffee, this homemade cheese Danish is the perfect choice. Even better? This recipe uses ready-made puff pastry, making it super approachable even for beginner bakers. It’s bakery-quality without the fuss, and it will make your kitchen smell like heaven. Let’s dive into the full guide, complete with tips, variations, and everything you need to create the perfect flaky cheese Danish from scratch. A traditional cheese Danish is a type of laminated pastry filled with sweetened cream cheese. It originated in Europe and gained immense popularity in American bakeries for its rich, creamy texture and versatile flavor profile. While you might often find fruit-topped versions or even almond-filled alternatives, the classic version keeps it simple — just golden puff pastry and a soft, lightly tangy cheese center. This delightful cheese Danish recipe proves that you don’t need complex techniques to enjoy bakery-style pastries at home. Ready to impress your guests or spoil yourself? With crisp, flaky layers and a rich cream cheese center, it’s ideal for brunch, holidays, or even a simple weekend treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:
✧ Not softening the cream cheese
✧ Skipping the egg wash
✧ Overfilling the center
✧ Using frozen pastry without thawing
✧ Not chilling before baking

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time:
✧ Chill your puff pastry and filling before assembling
✧ Don’t skip parchment paper
✧ Keep the pastry edges clean
✧ Use a cooling rack to keep the base crisp

Serving and Presentation Tips:
✧ Serve slightly warm
✧ Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze
✧ Place on a decorative platter or wooden board
✧ Add fresh berries or edible flowers on the side

Pair your cheese Danish with:
✧ Herbal tea or warm milk
✧ Fresh fruit salad
✧ Yogurt parfaits
✧ Soft cheeses like brie or ricotta

Creative Variations You Can Try:
✧ Add fruit jams like apricot or raspberry
✧ Mix in mini chocolate chips
✧ Sprinkle chopped nuts on top
✧ Use flavored cream cheese

FAQs:
Q: Can I use homemade puff pastry?
A: Yes, though store-bought works beautifully and saves time.
Q: Can I add fruit toppings?
A: Absolutely — blueberries, cherries, or sliced peaches are great options.
Q: How do I keep Danishes from getting soggy?
A: Cool completely before storing, and avoid overfilling.
Q: Can I freeze baked Danishes?
A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to a month. Reheat in the oven.

Ingredients:
For the Dough:
4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
⅓ cup (75g) granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
1 Tbsp (10g) active dry yeast
1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warm
1 large egg, room temperature
1 cup + 2 Tbsp (250g) cold unsalted butter, for laminating
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
7 oz (200g) cream cheese, softened
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
For the Glaze:
1 cup (100g) powdered sugar
1–2 Tbsp milk or lemon juice
½ tsp vanilla extract
Optional: Fruit preserves, fresh berries, or sliced almonds for topping

Instructions:
Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, combine warm milk and yeast, let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add egg and yeast mixture to dry ingredients. Mix and knead until smooth (about 6–8 minutes). Cover and chill for 30 minutes.
Prepare Butter Block: Place cold butter between parchment sheets. Pound and shape into an 8-inch square. Chill until firm yet pliable.
Laminate the Dough: Roll dough into a 16-inch square. Place butter in center like a diamond. Fold corners over to seal. Roll into a long rectangle (8×24 inches). Fold into thirds like a letter. Chill 30 mins. Repeat rolling and folding 2 more times, chilling in between.
Shape the Danish: Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch squares. Add a tablespoon of cream cheese filling to the center. Fold corners or shape as desired. Add berries or jam if using.
Proof and Bake: Place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Let rise at room temp for 1 hour. Preheat oven to 390°F (200°C). Brush with egg wash or milk. Bake 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
Glaze and Serve: Cool completely. Mix powdered sugar, milk/lemon juice, and vanilla for glaze. Drizzle and serve!

Notes:
✧ Ricotta or mascarpone can replace cream cheese for a lighter filling.
✧ Chilling the dough between folds is key to achieving flaky layers.
✧ Use fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot for added flavor and color.

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