Cranberry Cream Cheese Danish

The first time I made Cranberry Cream Cheese Danish, I was chasing the perfect brunch dish to impress some unexpected guests. The flaky pastry combined with creamy cheese and tangy cranberry quickly won their hearts and became a staple in my weekend mornings.

I remember the first time I nailed the perfect flaky crust while the cranberry aroma filled my kitchen—it felt like magic and a cozy celebration all at once.

Ingredients

• Frozen puff pastry: I always keep a sheet ready in my freezer because it saves so much time and bakes beautifully fluffy and golden.
• Cream cheese: Using softened cream cheese makes blending smooth and rich for that luscious filling.
• Cranberry sauce: I prefer whole berry for texture and bright bursts of flavor, but homemade or canned works fine.
• Egg and milk: This combo creates a glossy egg wash that gives the pastry its golden shine.
• Powdered sugar glaze: A simple drizzle that adds the perfect touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven and prepare your baking sheet with parchment so the danishes don't stick and bake evenly.

Whip the Filling:

Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy—this is the rich heart of your danish.

Shape the Pastry:

Roll out the thawed puff pastry just a touch and cut into rectangles, then score gently to create a border that will hold your fillings perfectly.

Layer Deliciousness:

Spread cream cheese inside the border, top with a dollop of cranberry sauce, and sprinkle orange zest if you're feeling fancy.

Brush & Bake:

Brush the edges with egg wash for that irresistible golden finish and bake until puffed and beautifully browned.

Cool & Glaze:

Once cooled, drizzle your powdered sugar glaze—this silky touch makes each bite memorable.

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This dish quickly became more than food—it's a warm hug during chilly mornings and a celebration of simple joys with loved ones around the table.

Keeping It Fresh

These danishes are best enjoyed the day they're made. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and gently warm in the oven to bring back that flaky texture.

Adapting Through the Seasons

Try swapping cranberry for raspberry or blueberry preserves to match the season or your mood—each adds its own special twist without losing charm.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Pair these danishes with a bright cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea to complement the sweet and tart flavors perfectly.

• Don't forget to sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking if you want an extra crunch.
• For that wow factor, add a dash of orange zest into your glaze.
• Always have parchment paper handy—it saves so much cleanup time.

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Thanks for stopping by the kitchen with me—here's to many cozy mornings filled with flaky danish and good company!

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes, frozen puff pastry works well; just thaw it before use for best results.

→ What can replace cranberry sauce?

Raspberry or blueberry preserves make tasty alternatives that complement the cream cheese filling.

→ How do I achieve a golden crust?

Brush the pastry edges with an egg and milk wash before baking to get a golden, glossy finish.

→ Can this be prepared ahead?

While best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days without losing quality.

→ What adds extra crunch to the pastry?

Sprinkling sliced almonds on top before baking adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.