Description

These Cream Cheese and Berry Danish Pastries are flaky, golden puff pastries filled with a smooth cream cheese mixture and sweet berry preserves. Perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack, they combine the richness of cream cheese with the fresh tang of berries, all topped with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar and optional fresh berries for an elegant touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Puff Pastry

1 package (2 sheets) puff pastry, thawed

Cream Cheese Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg yolk

Berry Filling

⅓ cup berry preserves (strawberry, raspberry, or your favorite)

Egg Wash and Garnish

1 egg (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Fresh berries (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk together until smooth and creamy. Set this mixture aside to use as the filling.
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into 4-6 squares depending on your desired pastry size.
Assemble the Danish: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Spoon a teaspoon of berry preserves on top of the cream cheese. Fold the edges of the pastry slightly inward to create a border around the filling. In a small bowl, beat the whole egg to make an egg wash and brush it over the edges of the pastries for a beautiful golden finish after baking.
Bake the Pastries: Transfer the assembled pastries onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until the pastries have puffed up and turned golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
Garnish and Serve: Once cooled, dust the top of the pastries with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Optionally, decorate with fresh berries before serving to enhance both flavor and presentation.

Notes

Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy blending and a smooth filling texture.
Use cold puff pastry until ready to roll to prevent sticking and maintain flakiness.
The berry preserves choice is flexible—try raspberry, strawberry, or any mixed berry jam to vary flavors.
Egg wash helps achieve a shiny, golden crust but can be skipped for a dairy-free option.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.