Delicious Flaky Cheese Danish (Printable Version)
Buttery, flaky layers envelop a creamy cheese filling, finished with a delicate sweet glaze.
# Ingredients Required:
→ Dough
01 -
480 g all-purpose flour
02 -
67 g granulated sugar
03 -
1 tsp salt
04 -
1 tbsp active dry yeast
05 -
240 ml whole milk, warmed
06 -
1 large egg
07 -
240 g unsalted butter, cold
→ Filling
08 -
200 g cream cheese, softened
09 -
50 g granulated sugar
10 -
1 tsp vanilla extract
11 -
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
→ Glaze
12 -
120 g powdered sugar
13 -
15–30 ml milk or lemon juice
14 -
½ tsp vanilla extract
→ Toppings (optional)
15 -
Fruit preserves, fresh berries, or sliced almonds
# Guide to Cooking:
01 -
Combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate container, mix warm milk and yeast; let rest 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add egg and yeast mixture to dry ingredients. Knead until smooth, about 6–8 minutes. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
02 -
Place cold butter between parchment paper sheets. Pound and shape into an 20 cm square. Chill until firm but pliable.
03 -
Roll dough to a 40 cm square. Position the butter block in the center as a diamond. Fold dough corners over butter to enclose. Roll into a 20×60 cm rectangle, fold into thirds like a letter, and chill for 30 minutes. Repeat rolling and folding two more times, chilling after each.
04 -
Roll laminated dough to 0.6 cm thickness. Cut into 10 cm squares. Place 1 tablespoon of cream cheese filling in the center of each. Fold corners or shape as desired; add optional berries or preserves.
05 -
Arrange pastries on parchment-lined trays. Let rise at room temperature for 1 hour. Preheat oven to 200°C. Brush pastries with egg wash or milk. Bake 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
06 -
Allow pastries to cool completely. Whisk powdered sugar, milk or lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle glaze over pastries before serving.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Chilling the dough and butter is essential for flaky layers. Use high-quality unsalted butter for optimal flavor. Adjust glaze consistency to preference.