How to Make an Easy Cheese Danish

If you're looking for a delightful homemade treat that feels bakery-worthy but is incredibly simple to make, this Easy Cheese Danish is the perfect choice. With creamy, zesty filling and golden, flaky puff pastry, it’s a crowd-pleaser for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature

• 1/3 cup sugar

• 2 extra-large egg yolks, at room temperature

• 2 tablespoons ricotta cheese

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest (about 2 lemons)

• 2 sheets (1 box) frozen puff pastry, defrosted

• 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven:
   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine cream cheese and sugar. Mix on low speed until smooth.

   • With the mixer still on low, add the egg yolks, ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, kosher salt, and lemon zest. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.

3. Roll Out the Pastry:

   • Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Unfold one sheet of puff pastry and roll it into a 10x10-inch square.

   • Using a sharp knife, divide the pastry into four equal squares.

4. Assemble the Danish:

   • Place a heaping tablespoon of cheese filling into the center of each square.

   • Brush the edges of the pastry squares with egg wash. Fold two opposite corners toward the center, overlapping slightly, and press gently to seal. Brush the tops of the pastries with more egg wash.

5. Repeat and Chill:

   • Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry to make eight Danish pastries. Place all pastries on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

6. Bake to Perfection:

   • Bake for about 20 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.

   • Remove from the oven and serve warm.

Pro Tips for Perfect Danishes

• Keep It Cool: Work quickly with puff pastry to prevent it from becoming too soft. Chill it in the fridge if needed.

• Add a Fruit Topping: Before baking, spoon a dollop of your favorite jam or fruit compote onto the cheese filling for a fruity twist.

• Storage: These are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a low oven before serving.

Serve these cheese danishes warm for a flaky, buttery treat with a creamy, tangy filling. Share this recipe or subscribe to our newsletter for more easy and delicious recipes!