Cream Cheese Danish

With its flaky pastry and rich, creamy filling, a homemade Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful treat that brings the cozy comfort of a bakery right into your own home. Whether enjoyed as a leisurely weekend brunch or a special dessert, this indulgent pastry is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow this simple recipe to create your own batch of freshly baked Cream Cheese Danishes that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

**Cream Cheese Danish**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry sheet into equal-sized squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
4. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the corners of each pastry square over the filling to create a pinwheel shape. Press the edges lightly to seal.
6. Brush the folded pastry with the beaten egg to give it a shiny, golden finish when baked.
7. Transfer the filled pastries to the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
9. Once baked, remove the Cream Cheese Danishes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack.
10. Dust the pastries with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Indulge in the warm, flaky goodness of these Cream Cheese Danishes alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a truly satisfying treat. Serve them at your next brunch gathering or enjoy them as a sweet ending to a delicious meal. The creamy, tangy filling perfectly complements the buttery layers of puff pastry, creating a decadent pastry that is sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Experiment with different toppings such as sliced almonds, lemon zest, or fruit preserves to customize your Cream Cheese Danishes to suit your tastes.

Savor the joy of baking and sharing these delightful pastries with your loved ones, and watch as they disappear within minutes. With this easy recipe, you can elevate any occasion with the irresistible charm of freshly baked Cream Cheese Danishes that exude warmth and comfort with every bite. Enjoy the process of creating these delectable pastries and bask in the praise and admiration they bring to your kitchen.