Prepare to embark on a delectable journey filled with the heavenly flavors of our Mini Cheese Danishes. These irresistible bite-sized pastries offer a delicate balance of flaky pastry, creamy cheese filling, and a touch of sweetness that will transport you to dessert paradise. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or seeking a delightful treat for yourself, these mini danishes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, let’s dive into the recipe and unlock the secrets to creating these delightful morsels that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients (Makes approximately 24 mini danishes):
For the Pastry:
– 2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheese Filling:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg yolk
For the Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1-2 tablespoons milk
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
– Fruit preserves, such as raspberry or apricot
– Fresh berries or sliced fruit
– Chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts)
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
3. On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into 12 equal squares, resulting in 24 squares in total.
4. Using a pastry brush, generously coat each pastry square with melted butter.
5. Sprinkle the buttered squares with the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated for a delightful burst of flavor.
6. Gently press each square into the cups of a mini muffin tin, forming a small well in the center to hold the filling.
7. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Beat until smooth and creamy.
8. Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of the cheese filling into each pastry cup, making sure not to overfill them.
9. Bake the mini danishes in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown and puffs up beautifully.
10. While the danishes are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
11. Once the danishes are golden and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides for an elegant touch.
12. Now comes the fun part – the toppings! Customize your mini danishes by adding a dollop of fruit preserves, fresh berries or sliced fruit, and a sprinkle of chopped nuts. Let your creativity shine!
13. Serve the Mini Cheese Danishes warm or at room temperature, allowing your guests to experience the delicate balance of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and sweet glaze.
Tips and Variations:
– Experiment with different flavors by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or a dash of almond extract to the cheese filling.
– For a festive touch, dust the danishes with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
– Try different fruit preserves and toppings to create a variety of flavor combinations, such as blueberry with lemon zest, or apricot with sliced almonds.
– If you have any leftover danishes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within a couple of days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You have mastered the art of creating delightful Mini Cheese Danishes that are sure to impress both friends and family. From the flaky pastry to the creamy cheese filling and sweet glaze, every bite is a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing with joy. So, gather your loved ones, savor the aroma of these freshly baked treats, and indulge in the pleasure of a homemade dessert that truly delights. Get ready to create unforgettable culinary moments with these irresistible mini danishes that will have everyone asking for seconds.
