Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish

Introduction

These danishes are a perfect combination of flaky, buttery pastry and a creamy, rich filling, with a burst of fruit on top for a refreshing finish. The golden-brown dough creates a satisfying crunch, while the smooth cream cheese center adds just the right amount of richness. Topped with vibrant, sweet fruit, every bite is a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

I first made these for a family brunch, and they were gone before I even had a chance to sit down! What I love about Fruit and Cream Cheese Danishes is how versatile they are—whether you’re using berries, apples, or stone fruits, the possibilities for toppings are endless. They’re also surprisingly easy to make, yet they look and taste like something you’d find at a fancy bakery.

Whether you’re enjoying them at breakfast, serving them at a brunch, or treating yourself to a sweet snack, these danishes are sure to impress. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to more formal celebrations.

Perfect for:

• Breakfast or brunch
• Special occasions or holidays
• Dessert tables
• Afternoon tea
• Fruit and pastry lovers

Why You’ll Love This Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish

Here’s why Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish will quickly become a favorite:

• Flaky and Buttery Pastry: The puff pastry is light, flaky, and buttery, providing a perfect base for the creamy filling and fresh fruit.
• Smooth Cream Cheese Filling: The cream cheese is rich and smooth, offering a sweet contrast to the tangy fruit topping.
• Versatile Fruit Options: You can use any fruit you like, such as strawberries, blueberries, or peaches, allowing for plenty of flavor variations.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to prepare, using store-bought puff pastry to save time while still delivering delicious results.
• Impressive and Elegant: These danishes look fancy, but they’re easy enough for anyone to make and can elevate any brunch or dessert spread.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 8 danishes
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought, thawed if frozen)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
• 1 cup fresh fruit (berries, peaches, or mixed fruit)
• 2 tablespoons apricot jam (optional, for glazing)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)

Ingredient Highlights

• Puff Pastry: The buttery layers of puff pastry create a light, flaky texture that serves as the perfect vessel for the cream cheese filling and fruit topping.
• Cream Cheese: The cream cheese adds a rich, creamy element that balances the sweetness of the fruit and the flakiness of the pastry.
• Fresh Fruit: Choose your favorite seasonal fruit, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, for a fresh and vibrant topping.
• Egg Wash: An egg wash creates a beautiful golden, glossy finish on the pastry, enhancing the visual appeal and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish:

Prepare the Danish Filling:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and well combined.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash.

Assemble the Danishes:

4. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 8 squares (or rectangles, depending on your preferred size).
5. Add the Cream Cheese Filling: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center of each puff pastry square, leaving a border around the edges.
6. Fold and Seal: Fold the corners of the puff pastry over the filling, creating a small open pocket or square shape. Pinch the edges to seal, if needed.
7. Add Fruit Topping: Top each pastry with fresh fruit. You can arrange the fruit in a decorative pattern or scatter it on top for a more casual look.

Bake the Danishes:

8. Brush with Egg Wash: Gently brush the edges and top of each danish with the egg wash to achieve a golden, shiny finish.
9. Bake: Bake the danishes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up. The cream cheese filling should be slightly set but still soft.
10. Glaze (Optional): If desired, warm the apricot jam in a small saucepan or microwave, then brush it over the baked danishes for a glossy, sweet finish.

How to Serve Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish

Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish are best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Here are some ways to serve them:

• For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve these danishes alongside a hot cup of coffee, tea, or fresh juice for a complete breakfast or brunch experience.
• As a Dessert: Pair these danishes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
• For Special Occasions: These danishes make a stunning addition to a holiday brunch or celebration, especially with their colorful fruit topping.
• With Fresh Fruit: For an extra burst of freshness, serve these danishes with a side of additional fresh fruit like berries or citrus slices.

Additional Tips for Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish

Here are some tips to ensure your Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish turn out perfectly:

• Use Cold Puff Pastry: Make sure your puff pastry is cold before working with it to achieve the best flakiness when baked.
• Don’t Overfill the Pastry: Use only a small amount of cream cheese filling to avoid overflowing and making the pastries soggy.
• Customize the Fruit: Experiment with different fruits depending on the season, such as berries, peaches, or even tropical fruits like pineapple or mango.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the danishes ahead of time, cover them, and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Simply brush with egg wash and bake when ready.
• Check for Doneness: The danishes should be golden and puffy. If needed, let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Variations for Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish

Here are 10 variations you can try for Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish:

• Berry Danish: Top with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful berry medley.
• Peach Danish: Use fresh or canned peach slices for a sweet, juicy topping.
• Mixed Fruit Danish: Combine a variety of seasonal fruits like grapes, apples, and pears for a unique flavor.
• Lemon Cream Cheese Danish: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a citrusy kick.
• Nut and Fruit Danish: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds along with the fruit for a crunchy texture.
• Chocolate and Fruit Danish: Add chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling and top with fruit for a decadent twist.
• Apple Cinnamon Danish: Use thinly sliced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a fall-inspired variation.
• Raspberry Almond Danish: Mix almond extract into the cream cheese filling and top with raspberries for a nutty twist.
• Vegan Fruit Danish: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based puff pastry for a vegan-friendly version.
• Chocolate Hazelnut Danish: Spread a thin layer of chocolate hazelnut spread on the puff pastry before adding the cream cheese and fruit.

Freezing and Storage for Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish

• Freezing: These danishes freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• Storage: Store leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to 4 days.

Special Equipment for Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish easier:

• Rolling Pin: A rolling pin helps you roll out the puff pastry evenly.
• Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is great for applying the egg wash for a golden finish.
• Baking Sheet: A parchment-lined baking sheet ensures easy removal of the danishes after baking.
• Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the puff pastry into squares.
• Mixing Bowls: Use medium and small bowls for mixing the cream cheese filling and egg wash.
• Wire Rack: A cooling rack allows the danishes to cool evenly and prevents sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions for Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish

1. Can I use homemade puff pastry?
   Yes, if you prefer, you can make your own puff pastry instead of using store-bought.
2. Can I use frozen fruit?
   While fresh fruit is recommended, you can use frozen fruit. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid soggy pastries.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the danishes ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
4. Can I make these danishes without cream cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone, ricotta, or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor or dietary preference.
5. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Print

Conclusion

Fruit and Cream Cheese Danish is the perfect balance of light, flaky pastry, rich cream cheese filling, and fresh, sweet fruit. Whether you choose berries, peaches, or any other fruit, the options are endless, allowing you to tailor these danishes to your favorite flavors. The result is a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

This recipe is as simple to make as it is indulgent, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. You’ll love the way the buttery, golden pastry complements the creamy, tangy filling. Plus, they’re sure to be a hit at any event, whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself.

I can’t wait to see how your Fruit and Cream Cheese Danishes turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Happy baking!