Cranberry Sauce Cheese Danish: A Delightful Twist on a Classic

ByAngela

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how to transform a simple cheese danish into a festive treat that can elevate any breakfast or dessert table? Imagine the rich, creamy goodness of cream cheese paired with the tart sweetness of cranberry sauce, all enveloped in flaky pastry. The Cranberry Sauce Cheese Danish is not just a delightful recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors that can impress your family and friends during the holiday season or any special occasion.

In this post, we will explore how to make this delicious danish, providing you with a step-by-step guide that’s easy to follow, along with tips and tricks to ensure your success. Let’s dive into the world of baking and create something truly special!

Ingredients List

To make the perfect Cranberry Sauce Cheese Danish, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Danish Pastry:

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
  • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon flour (for dusting)

For the Cheese Filling:

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

For the Cranberry Sauce:

  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice (for added zest)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)

Suggested Substitutions:

  • Cream Cheese: Use mascarpone for a richer flavor or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
  • Sugar: Substitute with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
  • Puff Pastry: If you prefer a whole grain option, look for whole wheat puff pastry.

Timing

Creating this Cranberry Sauce Cheese Danish will take you approximately 90 minutes from start to finish, which is 20% less time than many traditional danish recipes. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 35 minutes

This makes it a perfect option for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to smooth out any creases. Cut it into a rectangle, about 10×12 inches. This will be the base for your cheese danish.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Beat until smooth and creamy. This filling is the heart of your danish, so make sure it’s well mixed!

Step 4: Assemble the Danish

  1. Spread the cheese filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
  2. Spoon the cranberry sauce over the cheese filling, distributing it evenly.
  3. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, pinching to seal. This will create a lovely border that holds all the deliciousness inside.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

Using a pastry brush, apply the beaten egg over the exposed pastry edges. This will give your danish a beautiful golden color when baked.

Step 6: Bake the Danish

Place the assembled danish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the danish from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. This cooling period allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (1 slice, assuming 8 servings):

  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 4g

This danish is a delightful treat, but moderation is key!

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to lighten up the Cranberry Sauce Cheese Danish without sacrificing flavor, consider these alternatives:

  • Low-Fat Cream Cheese: Use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese to reduce calories and fat.
  • Whole Wheat Puff Pastry: Opt for whole wheat pastry for added fiber and nutrients.
  • Reduced Sugar: Cut down on sugar in the filling and use fresh fruit to enhance sweetness naturally.

These modifications can help cater to various dietary needs while still delivering a delicious flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This Cranberry Sauce Cheese Danish is versatile and can be served in various ways:

  • Breakfast Treat: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful morning boost.
  • Dessert Delight: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
  • Brunch Centerpiece: Slice into smaller pieces and serve on a platter with fresh fruit and assorted pastries for a stunning brunch spread.

Personalize your serving suggestions by adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing over the top for an extra touch of sweetness!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Cranberry Sauce Cheese Danish requires attention to detail. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

  1. Overworking the Puff Pastry: Handle the pastry gently to maintain its flaky texture. Overworking can lead to tough pastry.
  2. Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking. A cold oven can result in unevenly cooked pastries.
  3. Skipping the Egg Wash: This crucial step gives your danish a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip it!

By being mindful of these common mistakes, you’ll enhance your chances of creating a stunning danish.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store them properly:

  • Refrigeration: Store the danish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the oven for a few minutes.

These tips will help maintain the freshness and flavor of your danish, ensuring it’s just as delicious when you enjoy it later!

Conclusion

The Cranberry Sauce Cheese Danish combines the creamy richness of cheese with the tartness of cranberries, all encased in flaky pastry. This recipe is not only simple to follow but also adaptable for various dietary preferences. We encourage you to try this delightful treat and share your feedback in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry sauce is a convenient option and works perfectly in this recipe.

2. How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg instead of the egg yolk.

3. Can I prepare this danish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the danish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. What other fruits can I use in this recipe?

Feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even apple pie filling for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I know when my danish is done baking?

The danish is ready when it is puffed and golden brown. You can also check the internal temperature; it should be around 190°F (88°C).

Cranberry Sauce Cheese Danish: A Delightful Twist on a Classic

Cranberry Sauce Cheese Danish: A Delightful Twist on a Classic

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • For the Danish Pastry:
  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
  • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon flour (for dusting)
  • For the Cheese Filling:
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 egg yolk
  • For the Cranberry Sauce:
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice (for added zest)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
  • Suggested Substitutions:
  • Cream Cheese: Use mascarpone for a richer flavor or Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
  • Sugar: Substitute with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
  • Puff Pastry: If you prefer a whole grain option, look for whole wheat puff pastry.

Instructions

    Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

    Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

    On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to smooth out any creases. Cut it into a rectangle, about 10x12 inches. This will be the base for your cheese danish.

    Step 3: Create the Cheese Filling

    In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Beat until smooth and creamy. This filling is the heart of your danish, so make sure it’s well mixed!

    Step 4: Assemble the Danish

    1. Spread the cheese filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
    2. Spoon the cranberry sauce over the cheese filling, distributing it evenly.
    3. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, pinching to seal. This will create a lovely border that holds all the deliciousness inside.

    Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

    Using a pastry brush, apply the beaten egg over the exposed pastry edges. This will give your danish a beautiful golden color when baked.

    Step 6: Bake the Danish

    Place the assembled danish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

    Step 7: Cool and Serve

    Once baked, remove the danish from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. This cooling period allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice.

© Angela
Category: DESSERT