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Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish

Rhonda Anderson
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Danish:
  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (about 8 oz)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
  • ¼ cup raspberry jam or preserves
  • 1 egg (for egg wash, beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
  • For the Glaze (Optional but Delicious):
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon milk or cream
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh raspberries
  • Dusting of powdered sugar
  • Lemon zest curls

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Preheat and Prep : Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Thaw your puff pastry according to package directions (keep it slightly cold for best results).
  • Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling : In a small bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  • Step 3: Prepare the Pastry : On a lightly floured surface, unfold the puff pastry and cut into 8 equal squares. Transfer the squares to the prepared baking sheet.
  • Step 4: Add the Fillings : Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each square. Add ½ tablespoon of raspberry jam on top of the cream cheese. To shape: Either fold the corners inward (for a classic look), Or twist opposite corners toward the center for a “pinwheel” style.
  • Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake : Brush the pastry edges lightly with the egg wash. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Allow to cool for 5 minutes on the pan, then transfer to a rack.
  • Step 6: Add the Glaze : Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over warm pastries using a fork or piping bag. Optionally, top with fresh raspberries or powdered sugar.