Flaky cream cheese Danish on white plate

Ultimate Cream Cheese Danish Recipe: Flaky, Homemade & Irresistible!

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Create a Starbucks-worthy Danish at home with this easy, foolproof recipe. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat!

There’s nothing quite like biting into a buttery, flaky Danish pastry filled with creamy, tangy cream cheese. Whether you’re craving a Starbucks copycat treat or a homemade upgrade, this recipe delivers perfection. Using puff pastry for ease and customizable fillings for creativity, this Danish is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Say goodbye to store-bought pastries—this recipe will become your new brunch staple .

Ingredients

Homemade Danish pastry with berries.

(Serves 8 Danishes)

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed but cold) 
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (or almond extract for a nutty twist) 
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp water
  • Powdered sugar glaze (½ cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tbsp milk) 

Optional Additions:

  • Fruit preserves (strawberry, blueberry) 
  • Lemon zest or juice 
  • Sugared cranberries for a festive touch 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Homemade Danish pastry with berries.
  1. Prep the Pastry
Flaky cream cheese Danish on white plate,
Flaky cream cheese Danish on white plate,
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the puff pastry into a 9×12-inch rectangle. Cut into 8 equal squares or rectangles.
  3. Make the Filling
Flaky cream cheese Danish on white plate,
  1. In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. For extra flair, add 1 tsp lemon zest or ½ cup fruit preserves.
  2. Assemble the Danishes
    • Spoon 1–2 tbsp of filling into the center of each pastry piece, leaving a ½-inch border.
    • Fold corners over the filling or twist into a spiral for a bakery-style look.
  3. Bake to Perfection
Flaky cream cheese Danish on white plate,
  1. Whisk egg and water for the egg wash. Brush onto exposed pastry edges.
  2. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and puffed. Cool slightly before glazing.
  3. Add the Finishing Touch
    • Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze and top with fresh berries or sugared cranberries .

Pro Tips for Success

Flaky cream cheese Danish on white plate,
  • Keep Pastry Cold: Work quickly to prevent the butter in puff pastry from melting, which ensures flaky layers.
  • Smooth Filling: Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps.
  • Freeze for Later: Prepare unbaked Danishes, freeze on a tray, then store in a bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes.

Variations to Wow Your Readers

  1. Fruit & Cream Cheese: Layer raspberry jam under the cream cheese filling.
  2. Lemon Blueberry: Add lemon zest to the filling and top with fresh blueberries.
  3. Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar on the pastry before baking.
  4. Savory Twist: Swap sugar for herbs and add smoked salmon.

FAQs

Q: Can I use crescent dough instead of puff pastry?
A: Yes! Crescent rolls work well for a quicker, softer texture.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness .

Q: Can I make these vegan?
A: Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use plant-based puff pastry .

Nutritional Info

(Per serving)

  • Calories: 280 | Carbs: 24g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 18g

Conclusion

With its golden layers and creamy center, this cream cheese Danish recipe is guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re a novice baker or a pastry pro, the simplicity and versatility of this dish make it a winner. Share your creations on social media and tag us—we’d love to see your twists!

Hungry for more? Try our Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cheesecake or Desserts to Impress Your Loved One next!

or King Arthur Baking.

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