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Introduction
There’s something deeply comforting about a freshly baked cheese danish. With their flaky layers and rich, creamy filling, these pastries make for the perfect breakfast treat or indulgent snack. This recipe will walk you through making the ultimate cheese danish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package (2 sheets) puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1/4 cup fresh fruit or fruit preserves (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 cheese danishes
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut into squares (about 4×4 inches).
- Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square.
- If using, add a dollop of fresh fruit or fruit preserves on top of the cream cheese mixture and sprinkle with lemon zest.
- Fold the corners of the pastry squares towards the center to create a pocket, pinching the edges to seal.
- Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and flaky.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth filling.
- For an extra touch, drizzle a simple icing over the danishes once they have cooled.
- Experiment with different fruit preserves to find your favorite flavor combination.
Cooking Techniques
Creating the perfect cheese danish involves mastering the art of puff pastry. The key is to handle the dough gently and keep it cold to achieve that flaky texture. Don’t rush any step; allow the pastry to chill as needed, and you’ll have delicious results.
FAQ
- Can I use cheesecake filling instead of cream cheese?
- How do I store leftover danishes?
- Can I freeze the cheese danishes for later use?
Conclusion
Now that you have this delightful cheese danish recipe in your repertoire, it’s time to gather your ingredients and indulge in the process of baking. These pastries are not just a treat; they’re an experience that brings warmth and joy to every bite!
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