Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish

This Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful pastry featuring flaky puff pastry, a creamy vanilla-infused cream cheese filling, and sweet raspberry jam. Topped with a simple icing drizzle, this bakery-style treat is easy to make at home and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flaky & Buttery Pastry – Store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe quick and easy.
• Rich & Creamy Filling – Cream cheese adds a smooth and tangy contrast to the sweet raspberry jam.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack.
• Simple Yet Elegant – Looks impressive but requires minimal effort.
• Customizable – Easily swap the raspberry jam for other fruit flavors.

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
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup raspberry jam
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Icing:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp milk

Directions

Prepare the Danish

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll & Cut the Pastry – Lightly flour your surface and roll out the puff pastry. Cut into equal squares.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling – In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Assemble the Danish – Spread a spoonful of cream cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry square. Add a dollop of raspberry jam on top.
5. Fold the Edges – Slightly fold the edges inward to help contain the filling.
6. Apply Egg Wash – Beat the egg and lightly brush it over the edges of each Danish for a golden, glossy finish.
7. Bake – Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

Make the Icing

8. Mix the Icing – Whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
9. Drizzle & Serve – Let the Danish cool slightly, then drizzle with icing before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 pastries
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Different Fruit Jams: Substitute raspberry jam with strawberry, blueberry, or apricot jam.
• Lemon Glaze: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the icing for a citrusy twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pistachios on top before baking.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Swap the icing for a drizzle of melted chocolate.
• Savory Version: Skip the sugar and vanilla, and use cream cheese with herbs and smoked salmon.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked or fully baked pastries for up to 1 month. Reheat before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the air fryer for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes! If you have the time, homemade puff pastry will make these even flakier and more flavorful.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pastries and refrigerate them overnight before baking.

Why is my puff pastry not rising?

Ensure your pastry is cold before baking, and avoid rolling it too thin.

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?

Yes, you can mash fresh raspberries with a bit of sugar or use them whole for a fresher taste.

Can I make mini versions of these Danishes?

Yes! Cut the pastry into smaller squares and reduce the baking time by a few minutes.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Do not overfill, and slightly fold the edges inward to help contain the filling.

What’s the best way to get a golden, flaky crust?

Applying an egg wash before baking helps create a shiny, golden-brown finish.

Can I make these without icing?

Yes, they are still delicious without icing, but the drizzle adds extra sweetness.

Can I use a different cheese for the filling?

Yes, mascarpone or ricotta can be used for a slightly different texture and flavor.

How do I keep the Danish crisp after baking?

Store them in a dry place and reheat in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish is a simple yet elegant pastry that delivers a perfect balance of flakiness, creamy richness, and fruity sweetness. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these pastries are a must-try. Try different fillings and toppings to make them your own, and enjoy bakery-quality Danishes at home!