Peach Cream Cheese Danish

Indulging in a delicious Peach Cream Cheese Danish is the perfect way to elevate your breakfast, brunch, or snack game. This delightful pastry combines the flaky goodness of puff pastry with a creamy, sweet cream cheese filling and the fresh sweetness of ripe peaches, all topped off with a glossy layer of peach jelly. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Let’s get started!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a homemade pastry. The layers of buttery puff pastry, combined with creamy filling and fresh fruit, create a delightful texture and flavor experience. Making a Peach Cream Cheese Danish from scratch might sound intimidating, but with just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress your friends and family with a treat that looks as good as it tastes. Plus, the fresh peaches add a burst of flavor that’s irresistible!

Ingredients

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup peach jelly
• 2 peaches, pitted and sliced
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water

How To Make Peach Cream Cheese Danish

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, lightly flour your work surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. If the pastry is a bit creased, that’s perfectly fine; a few small folds will add character to your Danish. Use a sharp knife to cut the pastry into squares – aim for about 4 to 6 squares, depending on how big you want each Danish to be.

Step 2: Create the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. This filling will add a rich, sweet component to contrast against the juicy peaches.

Step 3: Assemble the Danishes

Once your puff pastry squares are ready, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently score a smaller square inside each pastry, about half an inch from the edge, being careful not to cut all the way through. This scoring will help the edges puff up beautifully during baking.

Next, spoon a generous dollop of the cream cheese filling into the center of each pastry, ensuring to stay within the scored lines. Top the cream cheese filling with the sliced peaches, arranging them however you like. Drizzle the peach jelly over the peaches for added sweetness and shine.

Step 4: Brush the Pastries

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash. This step will give the Danish a beautiful golden color once baked.

Step 5: Bake

Place the assembled pastries in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. The aroma of baking peaches and cream cheese will fill your kitchen and leave you eager to enjoy your creation!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the Peach Cream Cheese Danishes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful contrast of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and juicy peach slices.

Expert Tips

• Make sure to fully thaw the puff pastry before use; this ensures it rolls out easily and puffs up nicely when baked.
• For the best flavor, use ripe and fresh peaches. If peaches are out of season, you can substitute with canned peaches; just drain them well.
• Don’t skip the egg wash! It contributes to the lovely golden color of your pastries.
• Feel free to add cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for a warm spice that complements the peaches beautifully.

Variations and Customizations

• Substitute peaches with other fruits such as apricots, cherries, or berries to create your favorite fruit Danish.
• Add a sprinkle of granola on top before baking for an added crunch and texture.
• Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, into the cream cheese filling for added richness.
• Drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk or cream after baking for a sweet finishing touch.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is quite unlikely!), you can store the Peach Cream Cheese Danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through, helping to regain that lovely flaky texture.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pastry for this recipe?

Yes! While puff pastry creates a wonderfully flaky texture, you can also use pie crust or crescent roll dough in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the texture may be different.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Silken tofu blended with a bit of sugar and vanilla can also work well for an alternative filling.

How do I know when my pastries are done?

Your pastries are ready when they puff up and are golden brown. If they are still pale after 20 minutes, leave them in the oven for a few more minutes until they reach the desired color.

Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the puff pastry and filling ahead of time. Assemble the Danishes and refrigerate them for up to a few hours before baking. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Conclusion

Making a Peach Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warm aromas and your heart with joy. Whether enjoyed as part of a leisurely breakfast or as a sweet treat to accompany your afternoon coffee, this recipe brings a homemade touch to any occasion. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again. So grab your puff pastry and peaches, and let the baking begin!