In a world where fast food reigns supreme, I often find myself yearning for the comforting embrace of homemade treats. That’s when I discovered the joy of crafting these Delicious Mini Cheese Danish. The moment you pull them from the oven, the sweet aroma of golden pastry mingled with creamy, velvety filling wafts through the air, instantly bringing a smile to your face. Best of all, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for brunch gatherings, allowing you to impress friends and family with minimal fuss.
With just 30 minutes from start to finish and the freedom to customize flavors—from luscious fruit toppings to savory herb cheeses—these flaky pastries offer something for everyone. So, whether you’re looking to elevate a weekend breakfast or simply want to enjoy a little homemade indulgence, get ready to find your new favorite go-to recipe!
Why will you love Delicious Mini Cheese Danish?
Simplicity: This easy-to-follow recipe makes baking a breeze, even for beginners.
Customizable: With options for fruit toppings, different cream cheese mixtures, and savory alternatives, you can adapt these pastries to suit any taste!
Quick to Make: In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy freshly baked danish that not only taste divine but also look impressive on any brunch table.
Perfect for Sharing: These delightful pastries are sure to please crowds, making them an ideal choice for gatherings or casual snacks.
Decadent Flavor: Experience the rich, creamy filling paired beautifully with flaky pastry in every bite.
Indulge in these warm, delicious treats, and if you’re looking for more pastry inspiration, check out my other easy baking recipes.
Delicious Mini Cheese Danish Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry
• Puff Pastry – Use all-butter pastry for the best flavor and flakiness in your delicate danish.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream Cheese – Ensure it’s softened for a smooth mixing experience, creating a rich filling.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling perfectly; a sugar alternative can lower calories if desired.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for the richest taste.
• Lemon Juice – Optional, but it brightens the cream cheese flavor, adding a delightful zing.
For Assembly
• Egg – Acts as an egg wash for a glossy, golden crust; milk can be a vegetarian substitute.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Provides a sweet finish to your danish; there are no direct substitutes available.
• Milk – Used in the glaze; a non-dairy option can be swapped in if preferred.
Elevate your baking game with these Delicious Mini Cheese Danish and enjoy a personal touch at your next brunch gathering!
How to Make Delicious Mini Cheese Danish
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Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Prepare the pastry: Unfold your thawed puff pastry and cut it into 3×3 inch squares on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.
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Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and optional lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Fill the pastries: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry square, being careful not to overfill to ensure they puff perfectly.
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Shape them: Gently fold the corners of each pastry square toward the center to create pockets or leave them open-faced for a delightful presentation.
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Apply egg wash: Brush the edges of each pastry with a beaten egg, giving them a beautiful, glossy finish after baking.
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Bake: Place your filled pastries on the lined baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
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Cool & glaze: Allow the danishes to cool slightly before drizzling them with a mixture of powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finishing touch.
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Serve warm: Enjoy your delicious Mini Cheese Danish warm, ideally paired with a cup of coffee or tea!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Delicious Mini Cheese Danish are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade pastries without the rush! You can prepare the puff pastry and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the filling and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, while the pastry squares can be cut and kept covered on a floured surface. When you’re ready to bake, fill the pastry squares, apply the egg wash, and bake as instructed for fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness. To ensure the pastries remain flaky, avoid refrigerating them after assembly; instead, bake them immediately for the best texture and flavor!
Delicious Mini Cheese Danish Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor your Mini Cheese Danish to your liking!
- Fruit Topping: Add fresh berries or sliced apples on top before baking for a burst of fruity flavor.
- Spiced Filling: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cream cheese mixture for a warm, aromatic twist. It’s a cozy touch!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled danish for a decadent dessert version. You’ll be amazed at the luxury in every bite.
- Savory Surprise: Swap cream cheese for herbed goat cheese or ricotta for a savory spin that’s perfect for brunch gatherings.
- Nut Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts inside the filling for an added crunch and nutty flavor. This offers a delightful contrast to the soft filling.
- Zesty Lemon: Add more lemon zest to the filling for an extra bright flavor that dances on your palate. It really elevates the overall taste!
- Caramel Swirl: Mix in a tablespoon of caramel sauce into the cream cheese filling for a sweet, gooey surprise in every bite.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and almond milk for the glaze to keep it vegan-friendly while enjoying the same great taste!
What to Serve with Delicious Mini Cheese Danish?
Looking to create an unforgettable brunch experience with delicious pastries that are sure to impress?
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Fresh Berries: The bright, juicy flavors of raspberries and blueberries provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the danish’s richness.
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Scrambled Eggs: Soft, fluffy scrambled eggs offer a wonderful textural balance and savory depth to the sweet pastries. Add a sprinkle of herbs for an elevated touch!
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Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit adds a creamy, crunchy element that complements the danish perfectly. It’s a satisfying and wholesome addition to your brunch spread.
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Coffee or Tea: A cup of rich coffee or soothing tea brings warmth and enhances the flavor of the pastries. Choose a bold roast or a floral tea for the best pairing experience.
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Citrus Salad: A vibrant mix of citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits provides a zesty lift that brightens the palate after each danish bite.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For an indulgent touch, drizzle some melted chocolate over the pastries. This decadent pairing transforms them into a sweet delight perfect for special occasions.
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Breakfast Cocktails: For a festive touch, serve these danishes alongside mimosas or bellinis. Their sparkling flavor makes any gathering feel celebratory!
Each of these pairings enhances your Delicious Mini Cheese Danish, making your meal not just a treat, but a delightful occasion to savor.
Expert Tips for Delicious Mini Cheese Danish
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Chill Ingredients: Keep your cream cheese and puff pastry chilled before use; this leads to a flakier texture and easier shaping of the danish.
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Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious with the filling; overfilling can prevent the danish from puffing properly. Aim for about 1 tablespoon per square.
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Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for all-butter puff pastry and pure vanilla extract. Quality ingredients significantly enhance the flavor of your delicious Mini Cheese Danish.
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Proper Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pastries while baking. They should be golden and puffed; if they look pale, give them a few extra minutes.
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Serve Fresh: These pastries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat to restore their delicious texture.
Storage Tips for Delicious Mini Cheese Danish
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Room Temperature: Store your delicious Mini Cheese Danish in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and flaky texture.
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Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days. Before serving, gently reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their warmth and crispiness.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unbaked pastries for up to 2 months. Bake them directly from frozen at the recommended temperature for a quick and delightful treat.
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Reheating: To restore the danish’s delicious flaky quality, reheat in an oven rather than a microwave, as this will keep the pastry crisp.
Delicious Mini Cheese Danish Recipe FAQs
What type of puff pastry should I use for the danish?
I recommend using all-butter puff pastry for the best flavor and flakiness. Look for a brand that has high-quality ingredients to ensure a delicious outcome.
How should I store the leftovers?
You can store your delicious Mini Cheese Danish in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 4 days and gently reheat in the oven to restore their freshness.
Can I freeze the Mini Cheese Danish?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked pastries for up to 2 months. To do this, prepare the danish up to the point of filling and shaping. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at the recommended temperature—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if my danish is overfilled?
If you find that you’ve overfilled the danish, don’t worry! Just gently reshape them so that any escaping filling doesn’t burn on the baking sheet. Keep in mind that overfilling can prevent them from puffing nicely, so aim for about 1 tablespoon per pastry for the best results.
Can I customize the filling for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! The filling is very versatile. For a vegetarian option, simply replace the egg wash with milk. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative. Additionally, feel free to experiment with various flavors like incorporating spices or using non-dairy cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
How long will the cream cheese last if I have leftovers?
If you have leftover cream cheese after making the filling, it can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure it’s tightly sealed and kept away from strong-smelling foods to maintain its freshness.
Delicious Mini Cheese Danish: Easy Snack for Any Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unfold the thawed puff pastry and cut it into 3x3 inch squares on a lightly floured surface.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and optional lemon juice. Stir until smooth.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry square.
- Gently fold the corners of each pastry square toward the center.
- Brush the edges of each pastry with a beaten egg.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
- Allow the danishes to cool slightly before drizzling with the glaze.
- Serve warm with coffee or tea!