If you love bakery-style pastries but want to enjoy them fresh at home, this Homemade Cheese Danish recipe is the perfect choice. With its buttery, flaky pastry crust and rich, creamy cheese filling, this Danish offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will elevate your breakfast or brunch table.
Whether you’re making a special weekend treat or impressing guests, these cheese danishes are surprisingly easy to prepare and deliver an authentic, golden-baked finish every time.
Ingredients
Makes about 8 cheese danishes.
For the Pastry
- One package (17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
- One egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Cheese Filling
- Eight ounces cream cheese, softened
- One-quarter cup granulated sugar
- One teaspoon vanilla extract
- One tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
For the Topping
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh fruit or fruit preserves (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 18 to 22 minutes
- Total time: 40 to 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Base
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares (for a total of 8 squares).
- Transfer the pastry squares onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
- Beat until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or whisk.
Step 3: Assemble the Danishes
- Using a spoon or piping bag, place about 2 tablespoons of the cheese filling in the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the corners of each square toward the center, slightly overlapping to create a pinwheel or envelope shape.
- Lightly brush the exposed pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Step 4: Bake and Finish
- Bake the danishes in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes or until golden and puffed.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh fruit or a dollop of fruit preserves if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.
- Pair with fresh berries or citrus fruit for a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy as a sweet snack or dessert anytime.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Danish (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 21 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 11 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 25 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 10 grams |
| Sodium | 210 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Cream cheese provides protein and calcium.
- Puff pastry delivers buttery flakiness but should be enjoyed in moderation due to fat content.
- Option to add fresh fruit increases fiber and vitamin content.
Tips for Success
- Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold to achieve optimal puff and flakiness.
- Don’t overfill the pastry to prevent leaking during baking.
- Use a light hand with egg wash for an even golden crust without browning too quickly.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract or citrus zest to the cheese filling.
Variations to Try
- Swap cream cheese filling for ricotta sweetened with honey and cinnamon.
- Add chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios on top before baking.
- Use store-bought fruit preserves to add a pop of flavor inside the cheese center.
- Make mini versions using smaller pastry squares for bite-sized treats.
This homemade cheese Danish recipe is a foolproof way to bring bakery-style pastries into your kitchen. The flaky puff pastry paired with a creamy, sweet cheese filling makes every bite irresistible. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, these danishes deliver both comfort and elegance.