Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze are a delightful treat that combines flaky pastry, creamy cheese filling, tart cranberries, and a sweet buttery glaze. These pastries are perfect for brunches, special occasions, or as a delicious dessert. The contrast of textures and flavors, from the richness of the cream cheese filling to the tanginess of the cranberries and the sweetness of the glaze, makes these danishes a standout addition to any gathering.
Recipe: Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze
Ingredients:
For the Cream Cheese Danishes:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought), thawed according to package instructions
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream
For the Sugared Cranberries:
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
For the Butter Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined and fluffy.
- Set aside.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference (about 4×4 inches each).
- Assemble the Danishes:
- Place a spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling, slightly overlapping them to create a pinwheel or envelope shape.
- Press lightly to seal the edges.
- Brush with Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk or cream. Brush the tops of each pastry with the egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake the Danishes:
- Place the assembled danishes on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack while preparing the sugared cranberries and butter glaze.
- Make the Sugared Cranberries:
- In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
- Add the fresh cranberries to the saucepan and simmer for 3-4 minutes, until the cranberries begin to soften and the sugar syrup thickens slightly.
- Remove the cranberries from the syrup using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to cool. Reserve the sugar syrup for another use if desired.
- Prepare the Butter Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, milk or cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
- Assemble and Garnish:
- Drizzle the prepared butter glaze over the cooled danishes.
- Arrange the sugared cranberries on top of each danish.
- Serve the Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips:
- If you prefer a lighter filling, you can use half cream cheese and half ricotta cheese.
- Customize the danishes by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling.
- Substitute other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for the cranberries if desired.
Variations:
- For a citrus twist, add grated lemon or orange zest to the cream cheese filling.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, on top of the butter glaze for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve the danishes warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert option.
Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze are a delightful combination of flaky pastry, creamy cheese filling, tart cranberries, and sweet glaze, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy the contrast of flavors and textures in these irresistible pastries!