Introduction

If you’re in the mood for a delicious pastry, the Danish cream cheese pastry is a delightful choice. This recipe combines a flaky, buttery dough with a rich and creamy filling, creating a treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Easy to make and undeniably delicious, this Danish pastry will impress both friends and family.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 250g all-purpose flour
– 125g butter, cold and cubed
– 60g sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 10g yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1 egg
– 200g cream cheese
– 50g powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Prep Time

Preparation time for this pastry takes approximately 30 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield in french

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 portions

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the dough

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the dough forms. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the filling

While the dough is chilling, beat cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, mixing until well combined. Stir in the egg until the filling is creamy and homogeneous.

Step 3: Roll out the dough

After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 4: Cut and shape the dough

Cut the rolled-out dough into squares or triangles, depending on your preference. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center of each piece.

Step 5: Enclose the filling

Fold the corners of the dough over the filling to create a pocket or shape it as desired. Ensure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

Step 6: Bake the pastries

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and serve

Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. They can be served warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Note 1: Storage

These pastries can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Note 2: Freezing

You can freeze unbaked pastries. Assemble them and place them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Note 3: Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as fruit preserves or chocolate, to create your own unique pastries.

Cook techniques

Preparing the Dough

To make the dough, it’s essential to achieve the right consistency. Combine the flour, yeast, and butter, and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs before gradually adding the liquid ingredients.

Rolling and Folding

Rolling and folding the dough is crucial for creating flaky layers. After rolling it out, fold the dough into thirds and repeat this process several times.

Resting the Dough

Allow the dough to rest in the refrigerator between rolling sessions. This helps to chill the butter and relax the gluten, resulting in a better texture once baked.

Preparing the Cheese Filling

Mix the cream cheese with sugar and other flavorings until smooth. This ensures an even distribution of flavor throughout the danish.

Baking

Preheat the oven to the appropriate temperature before baking. This ensures even baking and helps the pastry rise and become golden brown.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought dough instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, using store-bought puff pastry can save time and still result in delicious danishes.

How can I tell when the danish is done baking?

The danish is done when it is golden brown on top and has a puffed appearance. You can also check if it’s baked through by tapping the bottom; it should sound hollow.

Can I use different types of cheese in the filling?

Absolutely! While cream cheese is traditional, you can experiment with ricotta, mascarpone, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.

How should I store leftover danish?

Store uneaten danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Can I add fruit to my cheese danish?

Yes, adding fruits like berries or sliced apples can enhance the flavor and create a delicious variation of the traditional cheese danish.

Conclusion

Cream cheese danishes are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Their flaky pastry combined with the creamy filling offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. This recipe is simple yet yields impressively delicious results, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Cinnamon Roll Danish

Combine the sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the cream cheese filling for a deliciously spiced pastry.

Fruit-Topped Cheese Danish

Add a variety of fresh fruits on top of the cream cheese filling for a refreshing and colorful twist.

Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

Incorporate chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a rich and indulgent version.

Maple Pecan Danish

Mix in chopped pecans and maple syrup into the filling for a nutty and sweet flavor profile.

Lemon Cream Cheese Danish

Introduce lemon zest and a bit of juice to the cream cheese filling for a bright and zesty variation.