Lemon Cream Cheese Danish

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Indulging in a warm, flaky pastry filled with a creamy lemon-infused mixture is one of life’s simple pleasures. This Lemon Cream Cheese Danish combines the light, buttery goodness of puff pastry with a zesty, sweet filling that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dessert that is sure to impress. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this danish is a guaranteed hit.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Lemon Cream Cheese Danish stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to the use of store-bought puff pastry, which means no complicated dough-making processes! Secondly, the combination of the cream cheese, lemon curd, and zesty lemon zest creates a deliciously tangy filling that complements the flaky pastry perfectly. Lastly, these danishes are visually stunning and can be decorated to suit any occasion, making them ideal for potlucks, brunches, or even just a cozy afternoon at home.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup lemon curd
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water

How To Make Lemon Cream Cheese Danish

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once your puff pastry has thawed, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle measuring about 12×9 inches. Use a sharp knife to slice the pastry into four equal rectangles.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend until smooth and creamy. This mixture will add a wonderful richness to your danish.

Step 3: Assemble the Danish

On each rectangle of puff pastry, create a border by making a small cut about 1 inch from the edges of the pastry with a sharp knife. Be careful not to cut all the way through. The border will help form a little wall to hold your delicious filling in place. Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each rectangle, leaving the borders clear. Top each with a generous dollop of lemon curd.

Step 4: Brush and Bake

Whisk the egg with the water in a small bowl. Brush this egg wash over the outer edges of the danish to ensure they turn golden brown and shiny as they bake. Place the pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they puff up and achieve a lovely golden color.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the danish from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the burst of lemon flavor with each flaky bite!

Expert Tips

• Ensure your puff pastry is completely thawed before rolling it out to prevent tearing.
• For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle more powdered sugar on top after baking.
• Feel free to customize the lemon curd with store-bought or homemade options according to your preference.
• If you’re short on time, you can skip the cream cheese filling and simply use lemon curd.

Variations and Customizations

• Substitute the lemon curd with other fruit curds like raspberry or passion fruit for a different flavor.
• Add fresh berries or sliced almonds on top of the lemon curd for added texture and freshness.
• Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled danish for extra sweetness.
• Try adding a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture for a warm spice note.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely), store the danish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain that fresh pastry goodness, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before enjoying. However, keep in mind that they are best enjoyed fresh.

FAQ

Can I use homemade puff pastry for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer to make your own puff pastry from scratch, it will add a wonderful homemade touch to your danish. Just ensure that the layers are properly formed for that delightful flakiness.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you want a lighter option or need a dairy-free substitute, you can use silken tofu blended until smooth or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This will still give you that creamy texture you crave.

How do I know when the danish are done baking?

Look for a golden-brown color on the edges and a puffed-up appearance. The pastries should have risen nicely and should look flaky and delicious.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the filled danish ahead of time and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.

Conclusion

There you have it – a delightful Lemon Cream Cheese Danish recipe that is simple, scrumptious, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tangy lemon and creamy filling enveloped in flaky pastry creates a treat that is nothing short of heavenly. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a weekday treat, these danishes will bring joy to your table. Get ready to savor every bite, and don’t forget to share with friends and family – or keep them all to yourself (no judgment here)! Happy baking!