Description
These Delicious Mini Cheese Danish pastries are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. Made with flaky puff pastry and a creamy sweetened cream cheese filling, they are baked to golden perfection and topped with a smooth powdered sugar glaze. Quick and easy to prepare, they pair wonderfully with coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry:
- 1 package Puff Pastry (store-bought, thawed)
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (can substitute with sugar alternative)
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (use pure extract for best flavor)
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (optional)
Egg Wash:
- 1 beaten Egg (can be replaced with milk)
Glaze:
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar (no direct replacement)
- 1 tbsp Milk (dairy-free options available)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Pastry Squares: On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into 3×3 inch squares to create individual portions.
- Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and optional lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Danish: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each pastry square. You can either fold the corners toward the center to enclose the filling or leave the squares open-faced for a rustic look.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the edges of each pastry with the beaten egg to give the finished Danish a shiny, golden appearance after baking.
- Bake: Place the pastries on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool: Remove the Danish from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack to set.
- Prepare Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth and no lumps remain. Drizzle the glaze over the warm Danish for added sweetness and shine.
- Serve: Serve the Mini Cheese Danish warm alongside your favorite coffee or tea for the ultimate breakfast or snack experience.
Notes
- Use store-bought puff pastry for convenience; make sure it is fully thawed before cutting.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- The lemon juice is optional but adds a nice subtle tang to the filling.
- If you prefer a vegan egg wash, use a plant-based milk or aquafaba (chickpea water).
- Try experimenting with different fillings like fruit preserves or nut pastes for variety.
- Ensure the pastries are spaced well on the baking sheet to allow puffing and even browning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Mini Cheese Danish, Puff Pastry Recipe, Cream Cheese Pastry, Breakfast Pastry, Easy Danish, Dessert Pastry
