Ultimate Breakfast Cheese Danish

The Ultimate Breakfast  Cheese  Danish is a delightful pastry that combines a flaky, buttery dough with a sweet and creamy cheese filling. Here’s what typically makes it so special:

1. Dough: The base is usually made from puff pastry or a sweet yeast dough, which creates a light and flaky texture.
2. Cheese Filling: The filling is typically made from cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Sometimes, lemon zest or other flavorings are added for a refreshing twist.
3. Toppings: After baking, the Danish can be topped with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or a fruit topping, such as berries or preserves, adding sweetness and color.
4. Baking: The assembled pastries are baked until golden brown, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, creamy interior.

For the Dough:

• 1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into 4 squares.
3. Make Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, egg yolk, and lemon juice (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Danish:

• Place a tablespoon of the cheese filling in the center of each puff pastry square.
• Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to create a diamond shape, pinching the edges to seal.

1. Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the pastries for a golden finish.
2. Bake: Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
3. Make the Glaze: While the pastries are baking, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or sugar if needed.
4. Glaze the Pastries: Once the Danish are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Ultimate Breakfast Cheese Danish warm or at room temperature!