Easy Breakfast Cheese Danish
Introduction
Start your day with a delicious and satisfying breakfast cheese Danish. This recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. The flaky pastry filled with a creamy cheese filling is the perfect way to indulge yourself in the morning. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this breakfast cheese Danish recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the pastry:
- 2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the cheese filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the cheese filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and all-purpose flour. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Assemble the Danish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a floured surface. Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares. Spoon a generous amount of the prepared cheese filling onto the center of each square.
Step 3: Shape the Danish
Take one corner of the pastry square and fold it over the filling, diagonally to the opposite corner, creating a triangle. Press the edges together to seal the pastry. Repeat this step for the remaining squares.
Step 4: Bake the Danish
Place the assembled cheese Danish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
Variations
This easy breakfast cheese Danish recipe can be modified to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
Fruit-filled Danish:
Add a spoonful of your favorite fruit jam or preserves on top of the cheese filling before folding the pastry. Blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry jam work particularly well.
Chocolate and nut Danish:
Sprinkle some chocolate chips and crushed nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, onto the cheese filling before folding the pastry. This will add a delightful crunch and extra richness to your Danish.
Cinnamon sugar Danish:
Mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese filling before folding the pastry. The warm and fragrant cinnamon sugar will give your Danish a delightful aroma.
Tips
- Make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed before using it to ensure it bakes evenly and becomes beautifully flaky.
- You can make the cheese filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This allows for easy assembly when you’re ready to bake the Danish.
- For an extra touch of sweetness, dust the baked Danish with powdered sugar before serving.
- Feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings to create your own unique breakfast cheese Danish.
Conclusion
Indulge in a delightful breakfast with this easy cheese Danish recipe. The flaky pastry and creamy cheese filling make for a perfect combination. Whether you’re enjoying it on a lazy Sunday morning or surprising your loved ones with a special treat, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With minimal effort and delicious results, you’ll want to make this breakfast cheese Danish again and again.
FAQs
Can I freeze the assembled Danish before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled Danish before baking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, simply brush them with the egg wash and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use homemade puff pastry for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have the time and prefer to make your own puff pastry, feel free to use it in this recipe. Just ensure that it is rolled out to the appropriate thickness and follow the steps as outlined.
Can I make a glaze for the Danish?
Yes, you can make a simple glaze by combining powdered sugar with a small amount of milk or lemon juice. Drizzle the glaze over the baked Danish for an added touch of sweetness.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese or a combination of ricotta and mascarpone. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but equally delicious.
How long do the baked Danish stay fresh?
The baked Danish can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer to enjoy them warm, simply reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes before serving.
