Ultimate Cheese Danish Recipe: Puff Pastry Or Homemade

Introduction: A Cheese Danish Recipe You’ll Actually Make

There’s a reason the cheese Danish is a bakery favorite. It’s flaky, rich, and filled with just enough sweetness to feel like a treat without being over the top. This recipe brings that same comforting flavor home, using simple techniques and everyday ingredients.

Flaky Cheese Danish pastries with cream filling on a white plate — These golden Cheese Danish pastries are crisp, creamy, and ready to serve

Jump to Recipe

You can choose the quick route with ready-made puff pastry or try the traditional dough if you’re up for a baking project. Both yield crisp edges, soft centers, and that signature creamy filling.

Whether you’re planning brunch, craving something warm with coffee, or just want to try something new, this cheese Danish is easy to follow and hard to forget.

If you enjoy creating European-inspired breakfast treats at home, you may also love this Creamy Salmon Florentine Recipe. It’s another flavorful morning favorite on our blog.

Ingredients for Cheese Danish (Puff Pastry and Dough Versions)

To make the perfect cheese Danish, you have two ingredient paths: the quick puff pastry method or the from-scratch dough for a more hands-on approach. Both lead to buttery, flaky results with a creamy center.

For the Cream Cheese Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
1 egg yolk
Pinch of salt

Option 1: Puff Pastry Shortcut

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 egg for egg wash
1 tbsp water

Option 2: Homemade Danish Pastry Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp active dry yeast
1 cup warm whole milk
1 large egg
1 cup cold unsalted butter for laminating

Optional Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
1 to 2 tbsp milk or lemon juice
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

If you want to experiment with texture or structure, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with pastry flour. This will produce a softer crumb and slightly lighter layers.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheese Danish at Home

Follow these directions based on the method you choose. Both approaches give you a flaky, golden pastry with a smooth cream cheese center.

Method 1: Using Puff Pastry (Quick and Easy)

Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the filling
Mix softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, egg yolk, and salt until smooth.
Prepare the pastry
Unfold the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into 8 rectangles or squares.
Assemble the Danishes
Place the cut pastry on your baking sheet. Gently fold or press the edges to form a slight border.
Add the filling
Spoon about one tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each pastry.
Apply the egg wash
Whisk one egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush the edges of the pastry to help them brown evenly.
Bake
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the pastries are puffed and golden.
Cool and glaze
Let the Danishes cool completely before drizzling with the optional glaze.

Method 2: Homemade Danish Pastry Dough

Activate the yeast
Stir the yeast into warm milk and let it sit until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes.
Mix the dough
Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add the milk mixture and egg. Mix and knead until smooth. Chill for 30 minutes.
Prepare the butter block
Place cold butter between parchment sheets. Flatten into a square using a rolling pin. Chill again until firm but pliable.
Laminate the dough
Roll the dough into a large square. Place the butter in the center. Fold the corners over to enclose it. Roll into a long rectangle and fold into thirds. Chill. Repeat this folding step two more times with chilling in between.
Shape and fill
Roll the dough to a quarter-inch thickness. Cut into squares. Add the filling and fold or twist the corners inward.
Proof and bake
Let shaped pastries rise at room temperature for about one hour. Brush with egg wash. Bake at 390°F for 15 to 20 minutes until golden.
Cool and glaze
Let pastries cool on a rack. Drizzle with glaze if desired.

Cheese Danish pastries with cream filling and icing on a wooden serving board — Freshly baked Cheese Danish pastries cooling on a rustic wooden board

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cheese Danish

A few small adjustments can make a big difference in how your cheese Danishes turn out. Whether you are using puff pastry or homemade dough, these tips will help you get bakery-quality results.

Keep Ingredients Cold

For flaky layers, always work with cold butter and chilled dough. If things get too warm, pop them in the fridge for a few minutes before continuing.

Don’t Skip the Egg Wash

Brushing the edges with a simple egg wash gives your pastry a glossy, golden finish. It also helps hold the shape during baking.

Avoid Overfilling

A tablespoon of cream cheese filling is enough. Adding too much can cause leaks and soggy bottoms.

Use Parchment or a Silicone Mat

This keeps the pastries from sticking and makes cleanup easier. It also helps distribute heat more evenly across the bottom.

Let the Pastries Cool Before Glazing

If you drizzle glaze while the pastry is still hot, it will melt and disappear. Wait until they are fully cooled for the best visual effect.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Try mixing a little lemon zest into the filling or using almond extract in place of vanilla. Small tweaks can create a signature version of your own.

Creative Variations of Cheese Danish You Can Try

The classic cheese Danish is just the beginning. Once you master the base recipe, it becomes a canvas for sweet or even savory combinations. Here are a few flavorful twists to explore.

Cream Danish Recipe

Add a little whipped cream to the cream cheese filling for a lighter texture. You can also use mascarpone in place of cream cheese for a smoother taste.

Vanilla Danish Recipe

Increase the vanilla extract in the filling or add vanilla bean paste for a stronger flavor. Top with sliced almonds and a light sugar glaze for a bakery-style finish.

Fruit Toppings

Spoon a small amount of fruit jam over the filling before baking. Raspberry, apricot, blueberry, or cherry all pair beautifully with the creamy center.

Chocolate Chips or Nut Mix-ins

Fold mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the filling. Toasted pecans, walnuts, or pistachios add a great crunch and contrast to the soft pastry.

Flavored Cream Cheeses

Use strawberry or honey cream cheese to change up the filling without extra steps. These store-bought varieties save time while offering new flavor profiles.

Savory Danish Recipe Ideas for Brunch and Beyond

Not every Danish has to be sweet. If you enjoy flaky pastry but prefer more savory flavors, these options bring richness without the sugar. They are perfect for brunch spreads, snack boards, or light lunches.

Cheese and Herb Danish

Use the same base dough or puff pastry and fill it with a mix of ricotta and shredded cheddar. Add fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme for a subtle kick.

Spinach and Feta

Cook spinach with garlic until wilted, then mix with crumbled feta. Spoon into the center and bake as usual. This one works well with a square fold or braid shape.

Mushroom and Goat Cheese

Sauté mushrooms with a little onion and black pepper. Combine with a small amount of goat cheese or cream cheese and use as your filling. These are best served warm.

Tomato and Mozzarella

Add a slice of tomato and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella to each pastry. Bake until golden and bubbly. This version pairs well with a light salad.

Savory Danishes can be brushed with milk or olive oil instead of egg wash for a softer, matte finish. Serve them with fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced plate.

How to Serve and Store Your Cheese Danish

Cheese Danishes are at their best when served fresh, but with a few simple steps, you can enjoy them later without losing quality.

Cheese Danish pastries with icing drizzle served on a plate — Soft and flaky Cheese Danish pastries topped with vanilla icing

Serving Tips

Serve the Danishes slightly warm for the best texture and flavor
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze just before serving
Arrange on a wooden board or platter with fresh fruit for a brunch display
Pair with coffee, tea, or a mild herbal infusion for a cozy treat

These cheese Danishes pair beautifully with other European-style brunch classics like Emily’s Authentic Chicken Paprikash, offering a savory option alongside sweet pastries.

Storage Guidelines

Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to three days and reheat in the oven before serving
To freeze, wrap each Danish tightly and store in a freezer bag for up to one month
Reheat frozen Danishes in a 325°F oven until warmed through to maintain flakiness

Avoid using the microwave to reheat, as it can make the pastry soggy. A quick oven refresh keeps the crust crisp and the filling creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheese Danish Recipes

Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade puff pastry works well and offers a slightly richer flavor. Just be sure it is properly chilled and rolled to the correct thickness.

What type of cream cheese is best?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor. Avoid whipped or low-fat versions, as they may turn watery during baking.

Can I make this recipe using pastry flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with pastry flour. This will produce a slightly softer and more delicate dough.

How do I prevent the Danishes from getting soggy?

Let them cool completely before storing. Also, avoid overfilling with cream cheese or fruit, which can release moisture.

Can I freeze baked or unbaked Danishes?

You can freeze both. Freeze unbaked shaped pastries on a tray before transferring to a bag. Bake directly from frozen with a few extra minutes. For baked ones, wrap tightly and reheat in the oven to crisp them up again.

Nutrition Information per Serving

Each cheese Danish is rich and satisfying, making it more of a treat than a daily staple. Here is an approximate breakdown based on a standard pastry made with puff pastry and cream cheese filling.

Calories: 320
Total Fat: 18 grams
Saturated Fat: 11 grams
Cholesterol: 55 milligrams
Sodium: 220 milligrams
Carbohydrates: 34 grams
Sugar: 14 grams
Protein: 5 grams
Fiber: 1 gram

Keep in mind that values will vary based on specific brands, ingredients, and any added toppings or variations. For a lighter option, you can reduce the filling or choose lower-fat cream cheese.

Cheese Danish with sweet glaze and golden flaky pastry served on a plate — Warm Cheese Danish pastries drizzled with icing, perfect for breakfast or brunch

Making a cheese Danish from scratch or with puff pastry is more than just baking. It is a chance to slow down, get creative, and enjoy something homemade and comforting. Whether you choose the quick version or take on the challenge of real laminated dough, the reward is the same. Flaky pastry, creamy filling, and a moment of quiet satisfaction with every bite.

Now that you know both methods, feel free to experiment. Try a vanilla twist or turn it savory for brunch. Share your results with family or friends, or just enjoy them with a hot drink and a few minutes to yourself.

Save this recipe, print it, or pass it along. There is always room for one more reason to bake.