Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Lightly flour a clean work surface. Gently unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet. If it seems too thick, you can lightly roll it out a little further to an approximate size of 10x14 inches. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, divide the pastry into four equal rectangles. You can then trim these rectangles into squares or slightly elongated shapes, as desired.1 sheet (about 9.5 oz) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Beat with a hand mixer or a whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps of cream cheese remain.4 oz cream cheese, softened, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg yolk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
- Place the puff pastry rectangles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using the tip of a sharp knife, carefully score a border about 1/2 inch from the edge of each pastry piece, being careful not to cut all the way through. This border will help create a slight "wall" for the filling.1 sheet (about 9.5 oz) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- Evenly divide the cream cheese filling among the center of each pastry rectangle, spreading it within the scored borders.4 oz cream cheese, softened, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg yolk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and 1 tablespoon of milk. This will give your danishes a beautiful golden sheen.1 large egg, beaten, 1 tablespoon milk
- Lightly brush the scored edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash. This is crucial for achieving that signature golden-brown crust.1 large egg, beaten, 1 tablespoon milk
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the danishes for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up, golden brown, and the cream cheese filling is set and slightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as puff pastry can brown quickly.
- Once baked, remove the danishes from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly.
- If you’d like to add a simple glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon of milk or water until smooth and drizzly. Drizzle this over the warm danishes. Alternatively, simply dust them with a bit of powdered sugar.2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk or water
- Your delicious Easy Cream Cheese Danishes are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-8 minutes to revive crispness.