Description
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.
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Ingredients
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
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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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
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In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
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Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Danishes
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Place puff pastry rectangles on the baking sheet, spacing them apart.
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Score a smaller rectangle inside each piece with a knife, about ½ inch from the edge (don’t cut through).
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Spoon or pipe a tablespoon of filling into the center of each scored area.
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If using, top with a dollop of fruit preserves or a few fresh berries.
Step 4: Add Egg Wash and Bake
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Whisk together the egg and water, then brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash.
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Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed around the edges.
Step 5: Cool and Glaze
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Let danishes cool on a wire rack for 5–10 minutes.
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Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to form a glaze.
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Drizzle over the cooled pastries and garnish with lemon zest or sliced almonds if desired.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Cuisine: American with European Influence