Description
These Cream Cheese and Berry Danish Pastries are flaky, buttery puff pastries filled with a smooth cream cheese mixture and sweet berry preserves. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack, they offer a beautiful combination of creamy and fruity flavors topped with a golden egg wash and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry
- 1 package (2 sheets) puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- ⅓ cup berry preserves (strawberry, raspberry, or your favorite)
Egg Wash
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Topping
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Fresh berries (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk together until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 4-6 squares based on your preferred size.
- Assemble the Danish: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Add a teaspoon of berry preserves on top of the cream cheese mixture. Fold the edges of the pastry slightly towards the center to form a border around the filling. Beat the remaining egg in a small bowl and brush the egg wash over the edges of the pastry to achieve a golden finish when baked.
- Bake the Pastries: Transfer the assembled pastries to the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries have puffed up and turned golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooled, dust the pastries with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Optionally, top with fresh berries to enhance both the flavor and appearance before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Use cold puff pastry for better puff and flakiness.
- Customize the berry preserves to your favorite flavor for different taste variations.
- Fresh berries on top add a fresh burst and visual appeal but are optional.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American