Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish Recipe

This Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish is a decadent pastry with a flaky, buttery crust, a luscious cream cheese filling, and melty chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this treat is simple to make yet absolutely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flaky, buttery puff pastry combined with rich chocolate and smooth cream cheese
• Easy to make with store-bought puff pastry
• Versatile – great for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent dessert
• Minimal ingredients yet packed with delicious flavor
• Customizable – add nuts, fruit, or a drizzle of icing for extra flair

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Danish:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1¼ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons milk

Directions

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pastry

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling

• In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

3. Assemble the Danish

• Roll out the puff pastry sheet onto the lined baking sheet.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture down the center of the pastry.
• Sprinkle chocolate chips over the cream cheese layer.

4. Create the Braid

• Using a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart along both sides of the pastry.
• Fold the strips over the filling, alternating sides, to create a braided effect.

5. Egg Wash & Bake

• Beat 1 egg and brush it over the pastry for a golden finish.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.

6. Make the Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.

7. Drizzle & Serve

• Let the Danish cool for 5-10 minutes, then drizzle with glaze.
• Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 large or 6 smaller portions
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts for extra texture.
• Berry Bliss: Spread a thin layer of raspberry or strawberry jam under the cream cheese.
• Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
• Cinnamon Twist: Sprinkle a little cinnamon into the cream cheese mixture.
• Mini Danishes: Cut the puff pastry into smaller sections for individual servings.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed Danish for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

Yes! Store-bought puff pastry is the easiest option for this recipe.

2. Can I make this Danish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it, refrigerate for up to 12 hours, and bake when ready.

3. What chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips work best, but white chocolate or milk chocolate can be used too.

4. How do I prevent my pastry from getting soggy?

Make sure to thoroughly cool the filling before assembling and don’t overfill the pastry.

5. Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?

Yes, but phyllo dough is much thinner and more delicate. Brush each layer with melted butter before assembling.

6. How do I make this Danish crispier?

Bake it on the middle oven rack and allow it to cool slightly before serving.

7. Can I make this without an egg wash?

Yes! The egg wash gives a golden shine, but you can brush with milk instead.

8. What’s the best way to cut the pastry for braiding?

Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean cuts on the pastry.

9. Can I add a second filling?

Yes! Try adding banana slices, peanut butter, or caramel sauce for extra flavor.

10. Can I make this Danish sugar-free?

Yes! Use sugar-free sweeteners like monk fruit or erythritol in the filling and glaze.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish is the perfect balance of flaky pastry, rich chocolate, and creamy filling. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this easy-to-make treat is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy every decadent bite!

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