Braided Mini Cheese Danish
Delicate layers of puff pastry cradle a luscious, sweetened cream cheese center in these charming braided mini cheese danishes. With a golden, crisp exterior and a soft, creamy filling, each bite delivers bakery-quality flavor in a compact size. Whether enjoyed during a cozy morning meal or served at a festive brunch, these miniature pastries are a delectable and elegant treat.
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Ingredients
- 1 large egg lightly beaten, for brushing pastry edges
- 1 tablespoon plain flour optional, for a more structured filling
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons white granulated sugar
- 4 ounces approximately 113 grams softened cream cheese
- 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry thawed completely before use
- 1 egg yolk
- Optional: 2 to 3 tablespoons of your preferred fruit preserve such as apricot, strawberry, or raspberry
- Optional glaze: ½ cup confectioners’ sugar combined with 1–2 teaspoons milk stirred until smooth
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Unroll the defrosted puff pastry sheet and divide it evenly into 12 smaller squares. Arrange these on the prepared baking tray with adequate spacing between each.
- In a mixing bowl, thoroughly blend the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and, if using, the flour. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Place roughly 1 teaspoon of the cheese mixture onto the center of each puff pastry square. If you wish to incorporate preserves, add a modest spoonful on top of the cheese filling.
- Either gently fold the corners of the squares inward toward the center or leave them open, depending on your presentation preference. Brush the outer edges of each pastry square with the beaten egg to achieve a glossy, golden finish when baked.
- Transfer the tray to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and evenly golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for several minutes.
- For a sweet finishing touch, mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth and drizzle over the danishes while still slightly warm.
Notes
For a firmer texture in the filling, incorporate the optional flour. These pastries are best enjoyed the day they’re made but can be stored in an airtight container for short-term freshness.