Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Danish

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping breakfast or a decadent brunch treat, this Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Danish is exactly what you need. Flaky puff pastry layered with a luscious cinnamon-spiced cream cheese filling and topped with tender, caramelized apples makes for a stunning and delicious pastry. It’s surprisingly simple to make, yet looks and tastes like something straight from a bakery. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weekend indulgence, this Danish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why I Love This Recipe

What makes this Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Danish stand out is the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The buttery, flaky puff pastry provides a light, crispy base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, tangy cream cheese filling. The cinnamon and brown sugar give just the right amount of warmth and sweetness, while the fresh apples add a juicy, slightly tart element that balances everything out. Plus, the recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.

It’s incredibly versatile too. You can enjoy it warm right out of the oven or make it ahead and serve it at room temperature — either way, it’s irresistible. This recipe also pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect companion for slow weekend mornings. If you love baked goods with a fruit and cream cheese combo, you might also appreciate exploring the Cream Cheese Stuffed Banana Carrot Cake for another delightful twist on cream cheese desserts.

Ingredient Notes

• Puff Pastry: Use one package of thawed puff pastry sheets. These provide the signature flaky layers essential to this Danish. Make sure the pastry is completely thawed but still cold for easier handling.
• Cream Cheese: Eight ounces of softened cream cheese create a rich, smooth filling. Softening it ahead of time ensures it blends easily with the sugar and spices.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the cream cheese mixture without overpowering the other flavors.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a hint to enhance the cream cheese filling’s flavor, complementing the cinnamon and apples.
• Ground Cinnamon: Key to bringing out the warm spice that makes this Danish feel like fall in every bite.
• Apples: Two medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced. Choose a crisp variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Lemon Juice: Tossed with the apples to prevent browning and add a touch of brightness.
• Brown Sugar: Provides caramel notes that pair beautifully with the cinnamon and apples.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the apple mixture slightly and prevent sogginess.
• Egg and Milk (for Egg Wash): Brushed on the puff pastry to give it a glossy, golden finish.
• Powdered Sugar: Optional, for dusting on top before serving for a pretty touch.

Tools of the Trade

• Baking Sheet: A rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the cream cheese filling and tossing the apples with sugar and flour.
• Rolling Pin: Useful if you want to gently roll out the puff pastry to an even thickness.
• Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: To cut the puff pastry into squares or rectangles.
• Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash to the pastry.
• Cooling Rack: To let your Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Danish cool evenly after baking.

Stepwise Method: Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Danish

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss them in a bowl with lemon juice, brown sugar, and flour. Set aside while you prepare the cream cheese filling. This mixture will macerate slightly, softening the apples and enhancing their flavor.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth and creamy. This filling should be thick enough to spread easily but still light and fluffy.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry into a rectangle about 12×10 inches. Cut the pastry into 6 equal squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred size.

Step 4: Assemble the Danish

Place the puff pastry squares on your lined baking sheet. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese filling onto each square, leaving a small border around the edges. Arrange the apple slices atop the cream cheese, layering them artistically or simply spreading them out evenly.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Using a pastry brush, carefully brush the exposed edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash. This step ensures a beautiful golden-brown finish during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the Danish in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden and the apples are tender. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid over-browning.

Step 7: Cool and Dust

Remove the Danish from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and a pretty presentation.

Fit It to Your Goals

• Make it Vegan: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan puff pastry. Use a non-dairy milk for the egg wash or skip it altogether.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut down on granulated and brown sugar or use natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking to add crunch and flavor.
• Mix Up the Fruit: Try pears or peaches instead of apples for a seasonal variation.
• Make Mini Danishes: Use a smaller cutter or roll the pastry thinner for bite-sized treats perfect for parties.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Pastry Doesn’t Puff: Make sure your puff pastry is cold but thawed. Warm pastry won’t rise properly. Chill it in the fridge before baking if needed.
• Filling Too Runny: Ensure the cream cheese is softened but not melted. Also, don’t add too much liquid when tossing the apples — the flour helps keep things thick.
• Apples Brown Quickly: Toss apples with lemon juice immediately after slicing to prevent discoloration.
• Edges Burning Before Pastry Is Cooked: Cover edges with foil halfway through baking to prevent burning while the center finishes cooking.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

You can store leftover Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Danish covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.

For longer storage, wrap each Danish individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as above. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh-tasting pastries anytime.

Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Danish FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Fresh apples are best because they hold their shape and texture during baking. Frozen apples tend to release more moisture and can make the Danish soggy. If you must use frozen, thaw and drain them well before assembling.

What type of puff pastry works best?

Store-bought frozen puff pastry sheets are perfect for this recipe. Look for the ones made with real butter for the best flavor. Just be sure to thaw them fully but keep them cold before handling.

Can I prepare this Danish the night before?

You can assemble the Danish and keep it covered in the refrigerator overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking, then proceed with the egg wash and bake as directed.

What can I serve with this Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Danish?

This Danish pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. You might also enjoy it alongside fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait for a balanced breakfast. For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out this Apple Cinnamon Puffed Pancake.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Cream Cheese Stuffed Banana Carrot Cake – A moist, spiced cake with a decadent cream cheese center.
• Apple Cinnamon Puffed Pancake – Fluffy, baked pancake with warm apple and cinnamon flavors.
• Blueberry Lemon Muffins – Sweet and tangy muffins bursting with fresh blueberries.
• Chocolate Chip Scones – Buttery scones studded with melty chocolate chips.

Ready, Set, Cook

Baking this Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Danish is a rewarding experience that brings warmth and comfort straight to your kitchen. With minimal effort and accessible ingredients, you can create a bakery-worthy pastry that will delight family and friends alike. Whether for a leisurely weekend breakfast or a festive brunch, this recipe always impresses.

So grab your puff pastry, cream cheese, and apples, and get ready to make something truly special. Your taste buds will thank you!

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