Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish

Flaky, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet, this Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish is the kind of morning treat that feels bakery-worthy—without the complicated steps. Made with buttery puff pastry and a rich, tangy cream cheese filling, this danish comes together in under 30 minutes and is perfect for weekend brunch, special occasions, or a simple weekday indulgence.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Impressive – Ready in less than 30 minutes with store-bought puff pastry.
Creamy & Flaky – The perfect combo of buttery layers and smooth filling.
Versatile – Top with fruit, glaze, or keep it simple.
Perfect for Breakfast or Brunch – A sweet start to your morning or elegant treat for guests.
Freezer-Friendly – Make ahead and reheat for fresh-from-the-oven goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Danish:
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed according to package instructions)
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
½ tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon juice (optional for brightness)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tbsp water (for egg wash)

For the Glaze (Optional):
½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp milk
¼ tsp vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:
Fresh berries
Fruit preserves
Sliced almonds
Lemon zest

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Hand mixer or whisk
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Pastry brush
Knife or pizza cutter
Spoon or piping bag

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 6 equal rectangles (or leave whole for a braided version).

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
2. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Danishes

1. Place puff pastry rectangles on the baking sheet, spacing them apart.
2. Score a smaller rectangle inside each piece with a knife, about ½ inch from the edge (don’t cut through).
3. Spoon or pipe a tablespoon of filling into the center of each scored area.
4. If using, top with a dollop of fruit preserves or a few fresh berries.

Step 4: Add Egg Wash and Bake

1. Whisk together the egg and water, then brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash.
2. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed around the edges.

Step 5: Cool and Glaze

1. Let danishes cool on a wire rack for 5–10 minutes.
2. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to form a glaze.
3. Drizzle over the cooled pastries and garnish with lemon zest or sliced almonds if desired.

Tips for the Best Cheese Danish
Use Cold Pastry – Keep puff pastry cold for best flakiness.
Don’t Overfill – A little filling goes a long way and helps avoid overflow.
Customize – Add jam, lemon curd, or fresh fruit for a personal touch.
Let Them Cool – Glaze sticks better once the pastries have cooled slightly.
Freeze Leftovers – Freeze unglazed danishes and reheat in the oven for a crispy treat anytime.

Serving Suggestions
Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee or tea for a beautiful breakfast spread.
Great addition to brunch boards or holiday breakfast tables.
Pair with a fruit salad or smoothie for a balanced morning meal.
Slice into mini portions for easy grab-and-go treats at gatherings.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Keep cooled danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Reheating:
Oven or toaster oven: Bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until warmed and crisp.
Avoid microwaving—they’ll lose their flaky texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes! Prepare the filling in advance and assemble just before baking. Or bake and freeze for later.
2. Can I use homemade pastry?
   Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry or crescent dough works beautifully.
3. Can I make a large braid instead of individual danishes?
   Yes! Roll out the full sheet, add the filling in the center, cut slits on the sides, and braid for a beautiful centerpiece.
4. Is it very sweet?
   The filling is lightly sweetened. You can adjust sugar in the filling or glaze to suit your taste.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Use plant-based cream cheese and yogurt alternatives, and a dairy-free puff pastry.

Final Thoughts
This Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish is everything you want in a homemade pastry—flaky, creamy, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a bakery-style treat in your own kitchen any day of the week. Whether served plain, topped with fruit, or finished with a glaze, this danish is sure to delight every time.

Give it a try and let me know your favorite version! Don’t forget to snap a pic and tag your breakfast creation—I’d love to see it.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Cuisine: American with European Influence

Nutritional Information (Per Danish):
Calories: 260 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Fat: 17g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 210mg

Print