Cheese Danish Delight

Why Make This Recipe

Cheese Danish Delight is a wonderful treat that combines flaky pastry with sweet and creamy cheese filling. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack. They are simple to make and bring a touch of bakery goodness right to your kitchen. The warm, buttery taste of the pastry pairs perfectly with the sweet cream cheese filling, making it a favorite for everyone.

How to Make Cheese Danish Delight

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add 1/4 cup of cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into squares, approximately 4×4 inches.
5. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Place a tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each dough square. Fold the corners of the square towards the center to create a pocket and pinch to seal.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk. Brush the egg wash over each Danish.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Cheese Danish Delight

Serve Cheese Danish Delight warm, straight from the oven or at room temperature. They are delightful on their own, but you can also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness. Pair them with coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.

How to Store Cheese Danish Delight

To store leftovers, keep the Cheese Danish Delight in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they will last for about a week. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their flaky texture.

Tips to Make Cheese Danish Delight

• Use cold butter for a flaky texture; this helps to create layers in the dough.
• Don’t overwork the dough to keep it tender and light.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
• Experiment with different fillings or toppings, like fruit preserves or a drizzle of icing.

Variation

You can add fruit to the cream cheese filling, such as blueberries or strawberries, for a fruity twist. Alternatively, try adding a hint of lemon zest for a refreshing flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought puff pastry instead of making my own dough?
Yes, using store-bought puff pastry is a great time-saver and will still yield delicious results.

2. How can I tell when the Danish are done baking?
They are ready when they turn golden brown and are flaky. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking time.

3. Can I freeze the Cheese Danish Delight?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

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