Name: Cream Cheese Danish with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: Danish
Ingredients: 1 box (17.3 oz / 320 g) frozen puff pastry, thawed; 1 egg + 2 teaspoons water (for egg wash); 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened; 1 egg yolk, at room temperature; ¼ cup (30 grams) powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ⅛ teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1–2 tablespoons milk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (included in glaze as per instructions)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 57 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of that perfect blend of flaky, buttery layers with a creamy, tangy filling that practically melts in your mouth, then this Cream Cheese Danish with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe is about to become your new go-to treat. Made with simple store-bought puff pastry sheets and a luscious cream cheese filling, it’s a delightful balance of textures and flavors that feels fancy but comes together in a snap. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe delivers golden, pillow-soft danishes topped with a sweet glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface, starting with a roll of pastry dough positioned diagonally at the top left corner. Below it, two brown eggs rest side by side. Near the center, a bright yellow lemon sits above a small glass bowl filled with vanilla extract. To the bottom left, a clear measuring cup contains milk, and next to it, a small glass bowl holds salt. On the right side, two glass bowls are placed—one filled with white powdered sugar at the bottom right and another with smooth cream cheese above it. The scene is clean and organized, with soft natural lighting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Cream Cheese Danish with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe lies in a handful of quality ingredients that work beautifully together. Each one plays a crucial role—from the buttery puff pastry that gives you those irresistible layers, to the creamy, subtly sweet filling that adds a velvety richness. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

Puff Pastry (1 box, 17.3oz or 320g): Pre-thawed, this buttery sheet is the base for that classic flakiness.
Egg + 2 teaspoons water: Combined for a glossy egg wash that helps your danish brown up perfectly.
Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): The star of the filling, adding rich, creamy texture and tanginess.
Egg Yolk (1, room temp): Gives the filling structure and silky smoothness.
Powdered Sugar (¼ cup plus 1 cup for glaze): Sweetens the filling and creates a luscious glaze without gritty sugar granules.
Fresh Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle brightness that cuts through the richness.
Pure Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warm, aromatic depth to the filling and glaze.
Salt (⅛ teaspoon): Just a pinch to balance and enhance all the flavors.
Milk (1-2 tablespoons for glaze): Helps create the perfect drizzle consistency for the finishing touch.

How to Make Cream Cheese Danish with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) or 160°C if you’re using a fan oven. Line a large cookie sheet or half-size sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup. Proper oven temperature and prep ensure your danishes bake evenly and come out golden and irresistible.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, egg yolk, powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Use a rubber spatula or whisk to get a smooth, creamy filling with no lumps. This filling is the luscious heart of your danish, marrying sweetness and tanginess into one heavenly bite.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Puff Pastry

Use a rolling pin to gently roll out your thawed puff pastry into a 12 by 12 inch square. This slight stretch gives you the perfect size and thickness for your danishes. Then, with a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the pastry into nine even 4-inch squares, ready for folding and filling.

Step 4: Fold the Corners

Carefully fold each corner of the puff pastry squares about one inch toward the center, pressing gently to secure them in place. This folding creates a charming envelope shape that holds the filling snugly, while allowing those gorgeous flaky edges to puff up during baking.

Step 5: Add the Filling and Egg Wash

Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, add a generous dollop of the cream cheese filling right at the center of each square. Then whisk the egg and water together to make your egg wash. Brush this all around the edges of each pastry square. This will help your danish develop a shiny, golden crust as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Flaky

Place your tray in the oven and bake for 16 to 18 minutes. Rotate the pan halfway through to promote even browning. When your danishes emerge looking puffed and beautifully golden, let them cool completely before the final step. Patience here ensures the creamy filling sets just right and the pastry retains its crunch.

Step 7: Drizzle the Glaze

Mix powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla extract to create a smooth, slightly thick glaze. Add the milk gradually, so your glaze doesn’t become too runny. Once your danishes are completely cooled, drizzle this sweet glaze over the top to give that perfect finishing touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Danish with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe

The image shows a close-up of several round pastries arranged on a white plate, sitting on a white marbled surface. Each pastry has a golden-brown, flaky outer layer with a shiny texture, and is folded up around the edges creating a rim that holds a creamy pale yellow filling in the center. The filling appears smooth and slightly glossy. White icing is drizzled in thin, uneven lines over the top of the pastries, adding a contrasting bright white color against the golden crust and creamy center. The pastries overlap slightly, filling the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle freshly grated lemon zest or a few fresh berries atop the glaze. A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving adds a delicate snow-kissed look that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy breakfast in bed.

Side Dishes

This Cream Cheese Danish with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or a rich latte in the morning. For afternoon tea, some fresh fruit or a simple green salad gives a balanced contrast to the richness of the danish, making it feel like a complete treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these danishes on a rustic wooden board for a charming brunch display, or nestle them into colorful cupcake liners for a neat presentation that’s perfect for parties. You can also add a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts for an elevated twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them covered ensures that the pastry doesn’t dry out and the filling stays creamy.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked danishes assembled on parchment paper-lined trays. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag for up to one month. When you’re ready, bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time for fresh, flaky treats anytime you want.

Reheating

Reheat leftover danishes in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness without drying out the filling. Avoid microwaving as it can make the puff pastry soggy and lose its flaky texture.

FAQs

Can I make this danish with homemade puff pastry?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry can be used if you have the time and patience to make it. It will give an even more buttery and flaky texture, but store-bought is a fantastic shortcut that yields delicious results just as well.

Can I substitute cream cheese for another type of cheese in the filling?

Cream cheese is ideal because of its smooth, mild flavor and creamy texture. However, mascarpone or ricotta can be used for a slightly different taste and texture, though results will vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use an egg wash?

While not absolutely required, the egg wash gives your danishes that perfect glossy and golden finish, which makes them look extra special and appetizing. It also helps the pastry edges stick together better.

Can I make mini danishes instead of full size?

Yes! Just cut your puff pastry into smaller squares and adjust the filling accordingly. Baking time will be shorter, so keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

How do I make sure the filling doesn’t leak out during baking?

Folding the corners toward the center carefully and pressing gently to seal them helps contain the filling. Also, don’t overfill—just a tablespoon of filling per square works perfectly for a neat and tidy danish.

Final Thoughts

This Cream Cheese Danish with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe is a total winner whenever you want something homemade but effortlessly elegant. The combination of buttery puff pastry and creamy, tangy filling, finished with a drizzle of sweet glaze, makes for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s equally wonderful for special occasions or just a sweet moment to yourself. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create bakery-worthy danishes right in your own kitchen!