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Homemade Breakfast Danish Pastries Recipe

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4.9 from 88 reviews

These homemade breakfast Danish pastries feature flaky puff pastry filled with a smooth cream cheese mixture and a dollop of your favorite fruit jam. Topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, they make a delightful treat perfect for a cozy morning or special brunch.

Ingredients

Puff Pastry:

  • 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)

Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 egg yolk

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup fruit jam or preserves (such as raspberry, apricot, or blueberry)
  • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Mix thoroughly until the filling becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
  3. Prepare Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into equal squares. Score the borders of each square lightly, then place a spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center of each square. Add a small dollop of fruit jam on top of the filling. Carefully fold or shape the pastry if desired, then brush the edges and tops with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if using, for added texture and sweetness.
  4. Bake: Transfer the prepared pastries onto the lined baking sheet. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the pastries are puffed up and a golden brown color.
  5. Make Glaze: While the pastries bake, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. Once the pastries have cooled slightly after baking, drizzle the glaze over the tops to add a sweet finishing touch.

Notes

  • Allow the cream cheese to soften fully for a smooth filling.
  • Use cold puff pastry sheets directly from the fridge but thawed enough to be pliable.
  • The glaze consistency can be adjusted by adding more milk for a thinner drizzle or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge up to 5 days.
  • Reheat pastries briefly in a warm oven to restore flakiness.