Simple and Delicious Cheese Danish Recipe

Okay, picture this: I’m It’s a lazy Sunday morning, the sun is peeking through the blinds, and the aroma of warm, sweet smells. What is pastry? Fills the air. What is the point of this article?What is a good cheese danish recipe?Is there a recipe that everyone brings to my kitchen every single time? I remember visiting my grandma, who always had a sweet treat waiting. Is it easier to make croissants from scratch? ), and the creamy, tangy filling nestled in flaky pastry is just… *chef’s kiss*. What is my go-to breakfast?
What is cheese Danish?
Think of a cheese danish as a love child between a cheesecake and a croissant. It’s essentially a pastry filled with a sweet, creamy cheese mixture, often topped with a glaze. The pastry itself can be made from scratch, but honestly, puff pastry from the store works wonders and cuts down on prep time significantly. The name “danish” comes from its origins, inspired by pastries popular in Denmark, but the cheese filling gives it a unique twist that sets it apart. It’s a simple yet satisfying treat perfect for any occasion.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What do you love about this movie?What are some good cheese danish recipes? is how incredibly versatile it is. You know those mornings when you just need something *delicious* to start the day? This is it. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy – even if you’re not a seasoned baker. The creamy filling is sweet and tangy, a perfect contrast to the flaky, buttery pastry.
And the best part? It’s budget-friendly! You probably already have most of the ingredients in your fridge and pantry. It’s so much cheaper than buying them at a bakery!
Here are some reasons why this has become a weekly staple:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of the creamy filling and flaky pastry is a match made in heaven. I sometimes add a little lemon zest to the filling for an extra zing, and it always elevates the flavor.
- So Simple, It’s Almost Criminal: Using store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe a breeze. Seriously, even on my busiest mornings, I can whip this up.
- Pocket-Friendly Indulgence: Compared to bakery prices, making these at home is a steal! Plus, you get to control the quality of ingredients.
- Endless Customization: From adding fruit to the filling to experimenting with different glazes, the possibilities are endless. I once made a batch with raspberry filling, and they were gone in minutes! If you like this recipe, you should check out my apple turnover recipe. It’s a family favorite, and similar in terms of simplicity.
How do you make Danish cheese?
Quick Overview
Making this What are some good cheese danish recipes?Is it easier than you think? How do you roll out puff pastry, spread a creamy cheese filling over it, fold it up, and bake it for 30 minutes? Bake it until golden brown. A simple glaze adds the finishing touch. What’s a no-fuss recipe that delivers big on flavor every time? Don’t be intimated, I know pastry can scare some people, but believe me, you got this!
Ingredients Notes
For the Pastry: A Recipe for
Puff Pastry: Store-bought is your friend here! Make sure it’s thawed but still cold for the best results.For the Filling: How do you
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor and texture. I always let it soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the filling. You can adjust the amount to your liking.
Egg Yolk: Helps bind the filling together.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the filling. Don’t skimp on the good stuff!
Lemon Zest (Optional): Adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the cream cheese. I highly recommend it!For the Glaze:
Powdered Sugar: Provides the sweetness and smooth texture for the glaze.
Milk: Use milk or cream to thin the glaze to the desired consistency. I sometimes use lemon juice for extra flavor.What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Prepare Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and egg yolk until smooth. Set aside. Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract. Make sure there are no lumps!
Step 3: Assemble Danish
Gently unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If it’s too warm, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 4: Fold the Pastry
If you want a layered puff pastry, fold one side over the filling, then fold the other side. Lightly press down to seal the edges. Can you cut the pastry into individual danishes?
Step 5: Bake
Place the danish on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Brown and the filling is set. Keep a close eye on them, as oven times may vary.
Step 6: Cool & Glaze
Let the danish cool on a wire rack before glazing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Set aside. Drizzle glaze over danish.
Step 7: Slice & Serve
Slice the cheese danish and serve warm or at room temperature. What are the best ways to enjoy tea with coffee?
What should I serve it with?
This What is a good cheese danish recipe?Is good on its own, but pairing it with other delicious food items makes it even better. What are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience?
For Breakfast:Serve it with a strong cup of coffee or latte. I love pairing it with fresh fruit like berries or sliced peaches for a balanced and satisfying meal.
For Brunch:What’s a good cheese danish to serve with your brunch spread? A glass of sparkling wine or mimosa is a perfect complement.
As Dessert:What is a cheese danish? Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch.
For Cozy Snacks:What’s a good cheese danish to serve with hot chocolate? What is the perfect comfort food for a night out? Pair with a glass of milk, or juice box.
How do you perfect a Danish cheese?
What are some tips to make the perfect cheese? Is it possible to learn dan
Puff Pastry Perfection: WhatKeep puff pastry cold. If it gets too warm, it will be difficult to work with and won’t puff up properly in the oven. I sometimes put it in the freezer for a few minutes if it starts to get too soft.
Cream Cheese Consistency: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will ensure a smooth and creamy filling without any lumps.
Glaze Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk in the glaze to achieve the desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less milk. For a thinner glaze, add more milk.
Flavor Boost: Add a touch of lemon zest or almond extract to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. You can also experiment with different extracts to create unique flavor combinations. One time I added a teaspoon of Amaretto, and it was incredible!
Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the danishes while they’re baking. They should be golden brown and the filling should be set. Oven times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
Glaze Variations: Instead of a simple powdered sugar glaze, try using a cream cheese glaze or a chocolate glaze for a different flavor profile.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Want to make these ahead of time? Here’s how to properly store your cheese danishes:
Room Temperature: Store cheese danishes at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before storing to prevent them from getting soggy.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps to maintain their freshness and prevent the filling from spoiling.
Freezer Instructions: Freeze the baked (but unglazed) cheese danishes individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan to store the danishes, it’s best to glaze them just before serving. This prevents the glaze from becoming sticky or dissolving during storage. You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gluten-free?Yes, you can use gluten-free puff pastry. Just be sure to check the ingredients to ensure it meets your dietary needs. I’ve tried a few brands, and Schar works well, but it can be a little crumbly, so handle it gently. Expect a slightly denser texture than traditional puff pastry.Do I have to use cream cheese?While cream cheese provides the classic flavor, you can substitute it with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a slightly different taste and texture. Mascarpone will be richer, while ricotta will be lighter. Adjust the sugar to taste, as these cheeses may have different sweetness levels.Can I add fruit to the filling?Absolutely! Berries, sliced apples, or peaches are great additions. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and gently fold them into the cream cheese mixture. I find that a tablespoon of cornstarch helps absorb any excess moisture from the fruit.How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?Make sure to seal the edges of the pastry well by pressing them together firmly. You can also brush the edges with a beaten egg to help them stick together. Avoid overfilling the pastry to prevent the filling from overflowing during baking.What can I use instead of the glaze?If you prefer not to use a glaze, you can dust the baked danishes with powdered sugar or drizzle them with melted chocolate. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce would also be delicious.Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to simple and delicious cheese danish recipe that’s sure to impress. It’s easy, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a weekend treat, I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does!
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my chocolate croissant recipe or my lemon blueberry muffin recipe. They’re both equally delicious and easy to make!
Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know if you tried it and how you customized it. If you make any flavor changes please share I am so curious to know! Also, consider rating the recipe so other readers can know what to expect!

Simple and Delicious Cheese Danish Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 pkg puff pastry thawed
- 1 unit egg beaten, for egg wash
- 1 tbsp milk for egg wash
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut each sheet into four squares.
- Place a spoonful of cream cheese mixture in the center of each square and fold opposite corners to the center to form a danish shape.
- Mix the beaten egg with milk. Brush the edges of the pastries with this egg wash.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.