Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, these Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes are just the ticket! They are flaky, indulgent, and oh-so-easy to whip up with frozen puff pastry. Whenever I make these danishes, my home fills with delightful aromas and happy faces. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a special weekend brunch with family and friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

This Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish recipe has become one of my favorites because it combines rich cream cheese filling with luscious chocolate ganache. It’s perfect for any occasion—just imagine serving these at a cozy gathering or surprising your loved ones on a lazy Sunday morning!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, even novice bakers can create something truly special.
• Family-friendly: These delicious danishes are sure to please everyone, from kids to adults.
• Perfect for sharing: Whether for brunch, dessert, or just because, these treats are ideal for gatherings.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble when you’re ready to bake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one contributes to the overall deliciousness of the Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish.

For the Pastry

• 2 Frozen puff pastry sheets

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 8 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1/3 cup White granulated sugar
• 2 tsp Pure vanilla extract

For the Egg Wash

• 1 Large egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tsp Water (for egg wash)

For the Ganache

• 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup Heavy cream

Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to get creative with flavors and fillings.

• Switch up the filling: Try adding fruit preserves or fresh berries for a fruity twist.
• Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add an unexpected warmth to your cream cheese mixture.
• Experiment with chocolate: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different take on ganache.
• Make it nutty: Add chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts into your filling for added texture.

How to Make Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

Step 1: Thaw the Puff Pastry

Begin by placing your frozen puff pastry sheets on the counter for about 30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the pastry to thaw properly, ensuring it puffs up beautifully in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

While waiting for the pastry to thaw, let’s make that scrumptious chocolate ganache! In a bowl, pour your chocolate chips. Heat heavy cream over medium-low heat until steaming—this helps melt the chocolate smoothly when combined. Pour the hot cream over the chips and let them sit for about 90 seconds before stirring gently until smooth. If you encounter any stubborn chunks, just pop it in the microwave for short intervals until silky. Let this ganache cool at room temperature for about two hours; it should reach a pudding-like consistency.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Grab a small bowl and beat your room-temperature cream cheese using a hand mixer on high speed for about one minute. This helps achieve that lovely creamy texture we want. Next, add in sugar and continue beating for another minute before mixing in vanilla extract. This filling is where all that luscious flavor comes from!

Step 4: Cut and Shape the Pastry

Once your pastry is thawed, place it on a lightly floured surface. Gently push together any seams and cut each sheet into thirds lengthwise before slicing those rectangles in half to create six pieces per sheet—12 total! Mix together egg and water in a small bowl to create an egg wash that will help give our pastries that golden finish.

Step 5: Assemble Your Danishes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). As you prepare two lined cookie sheets, lay out your rectangles of pastry. Use a sharp knife to cut another rectangle shape inside each piece without cutting all the way through—this will allow them to rise around our delicious filling when baked! Spoon about one tablespoon of cream cheese filling into each box you’ve created.

Step 6: Chill Before Baking

To ensure optimal puffiness, place one sheet in the fridge while putting another in the freezer for five minutes before baking. This step helps keep those buttery layers nice and cold.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake each tray one at a time for about 17-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown—a beautiful sight! Allow them to cool completely so that we can top them off with our rich chocolate ganache.

Step 8: Top with Ganache

Once cooled, spoon that velvety chocolate ganache over each danish while making sure some of that delightful cream cheese peeks out around the edges.

And there you have it! A delightful batch of Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes ready to be shared—and devoured! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

Creating the perfect Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish is all about the little details. Here are some pro tips to ensure your danishes come out delightful every time!

• Thaw the pastry properly: Allowing the puff pastry to thaw fully at room temperature ensures it rolls out easily and rises beautifully in the oven. This will give you that flaky texture we all love.

• Keep ingredients at room temperature: Letting the cream cheese warm up a bit before mixing helps it blend smoothly with sugar and vanilla, resulting in a creamier filling.

• Don’t skip the egg wash: Brushing the edges with egg wash not only adds a beautiful golden sheen but also helps seal the pastry, keeping your delicious filling snug inside.

• Monitor baking time closely: Ovens can vary, so keeping an eye on your danishes as they bake will help you catch them at just the right moment when they’re puffed and golden, avoiding any burnt edges.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing the danishes to cool before drizzling with chocolate ganache prevents the chocolate from melting too much and losing its shape, giving you that perfect finish.

How to Serve Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

These Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes are not only scrumptious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a festive gathering, here’s how to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance without overpowering the rich flavors.
• Fresh berries: Strawberries or raspberries provide a pop of color and freshness that complements the chocolate and cream cheese wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the danish and adds a healthy element to your dessert spread.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing your danishes with a warm beverage enhances their flavors and makes for a comforting treat experience.
• Whipped coconut cream: This dairy-free option is light and fluffy, adding an extra layer of creaminess that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
• Yogurt parfait: A simple yogurt parfait layered with granola and fruit can add texture and make your dessert table feel complete while offering a nice contrast to the danish.

Enjoy creating these delightful treats! They’re sure to impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each cooled danish in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, simply place the danish on a baking tray and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• If thawing first, you can reheat them in the microwave for 30 seconds or until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes:

Can I use different fillings in my Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as fruit preserves, Nutella, or even almond paste. Just keep the same structure to ensure they bake well!

How do I know when my Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish is done?

Your danishes are ready when they are golden brown on top and puffed up nicely. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time!

Can I prepare Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these danishes ahead of time by assembling them and storing them in the fridge before baking. Just be sure to bake them fresh right before serving for best results!

What should I do if my chocolate ganache is too thick?

If your ganache is too thick after it has cooled, simply add a little more warmed heavy cream to it and stir until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes as much as I do! They’re not only easy to whip up but also incredibly satisfying with their rich chocolate and creamy filling. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or just a sweet treat, these danishes are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience!