Cranberry Cream Cheese Danish

Nothing quite beats the moment I pulled this Cranberry Cream Cheese Danish out of the oven for the first time, that flaky golden pastry filled with creamy sweetness and a tangy burst of cranberry sauce felt like discovering a new favorite morning ritual.

I still remember the time unexpected guests showed up and this quick danish saved the day, turning a panic into compliments and requests for seconds.

Ingredients

• Puff Pastry: I always reach for frozen sheets because they thaw quickly and give that irresistible flaky texture
• Cream Cheese: Softened to the perfect spreadable state for that smooth rich filling
• Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry preferred for texture and that burst of tanginess, homemade if you have the time
• Egg Wash: Brushed on edges to create the glossy golden finish
• Glaze: Powdered sugar mixed until thick enough to drip gently over each danish

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to a toasty 200°C and line your baking sheet with parchment paper so nothing sticks.

Mix Up the Creamy Filling:

Beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and dreamy—smelling that vanilla brings a comforting warmth.

Shape the Danish:

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry just a bit. Cut into eight rectangles, spaced carefully on the sheet to give them room to puff up like golden clouds.

Score the Borders:

Use a sharp knife to gently score a border inside each rectangle without cutting through. This creates that classic raised edge to hold your fillings.

Fill Them Up:

Spoon a tablespoon of cream cheese filling inside each scored border, then top with two teaspoons of cranberry sauce. If you like, sprinkle a little orange zest for a bright lift.

Egg Wash Time:

Whisk egg and milk together and brush the edges to get that beautiful shiny finish once baked.

Into the Oven:

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until each danish puffs up and turns a gorgeous golden brown—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Cool and Glaze:

Let the danishes cool on a wire rack, then drizzle with the thick glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. It’s the final touch that makes these irresistible.

Bookmark

It wasn’t just breakfast any more when my family gathered around these danishes, it was a warm shared comfort and the start of new traditions.

Keeping It Fresh

Though best fresh, you can store these danishes in an airtight container for up to two days without losing their charm. Just warm gently in the oven before serving to bring back their flakiness.

When You're Missing Something

If you don’t have cranberry sauce on hand, raspberry or blueberry preserves offer a nice alternative twist that still keeps that fruity brightness.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

This danish pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai tea, making those slow weekend mornings feel extra special.

• Don’t forget to brush the edges well with egg wash for that picture-perfect finish
• If you like a crunch, sliced almonds sprinkled on top before baking add a lovely touch
• Keep any leftovers wrapped well to preserve every flaky bite

Bookmark

Thanks for joining me in the kitchen for this one, I hope these danishes bring you as much joy as they have me. Until next time, happy baking!

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pastry is best for this Danish?

Frozen puff pastry sheets work best to achieve the classic flaky texture and golden finish after baking.

→ Can I use alternative berries instead of cranberries?

Yes, raspberry or blueberry preserves can be used to replace cranberry sauce for a different fruity twist.

→ How do I prevent the cream cheese filling from leaking during baking?

Score a border inside each pastry rectangle without cutting through, which helps contain the filling neatly as it bakes.

→ What gives the Danish a shiny golden finish?

Brushing the pastry edges with an egg and milk wash before baking helps to achieve a glossy, golden appearance.

→ Is it possible to prepare these in advance?

They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days without losing texture and flavor.