Ingredients
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed if frozen
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, free of lumps.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. If needed, use a rolling pin to gently roll it out into a rectangle approximately 9 by 13 inches to ensure uniform pieces.
- Cut Pastry Rectangles: Cut the rolled puff pastry into 8 equal rectangles. Transfer these rectangles to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for expansion during baking. You may need two baking sheets to fit all pieces.
- Score Inner Rectangles: Using a paring knife, lightly score a smaller rectangle inside each puff pastry piece, maintaining a half-inch border around the edges. Be careful not to cut all the way through the dough, as this helps the edges puff up nicely.
- Fill with Cheese Mixture: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese filling onto the inner scored area of each pastry rectangle, spreading it evenly but staying inside the scored border.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat together the egg and water to make an egg wash. Using a pastry brush or paper towel, brush the egg wash over the exposed outer border of each pastry. This will give the edges a golden, shiny finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet(s) in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the pastries have puffed up and turned a beautiful golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cheese danishes to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use Wewalka brand puff pastry, commonly found in the refrigerated dough section of grocery stores.
- If you don't have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet, but parchment is preferred to avoid sticking.
- These danishes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- You can add a drizzle of icing or a dusting of powdered sugar after baking for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
