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Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 55 reviews

Indulge in a delightful homemade Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a smooth, sweet cream cheese mixture and topped with luscious chocolate ganache. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day, these elegant pastries combine creamy sweetness with rich chocolate for an irresistible flavor combination.

Ingredients

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Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

  • 2 frozen puff pastry sheets
  • 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tsp water (for egg wash)

Chocolate Ganache

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pastry Foundation: Begin by thawing your frozen puff pastry sheets according to the package directions, typically 30-40 minutes at room temperature. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Once thawed, unfold the pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and roll them out slightly to smooth any creases.
  2. Create the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer or wooden spoon, beat the mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy with no lumps remaining, ensuring the cream cheese is softened to achieve the perfect consistency.
  3. Assemble the Danish: Cut each puff pastry sheet into 6 equal squares, totaling 12 pieces. Place a generous tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each square. Fold two opposite corners of each square toward the center, overlapping them slightly over the filling, and gently press to seal.
  4. Apply the Egg Wash: Whisk together the egg and water in a small bowl to create the egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the exposed pastry surfaces to ensure a golden-brown and glossy finish after baking.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Arrange the assembled Danish on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each piece. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the cream cheese filling is set but still slightly soft.
  6. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: While baking, place the chocolate chips in a heat-proof bowl. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer (do not boil). Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk gently until smooth and glossy.
  7. Final Assembly: After baking, allow the Danish to cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the warm chocolate ganache over each pastry using a spoon or squeeze bottle for a decadent finishing touch.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • Do not overheat heavy cream to prevent separation when making ganache.
  • Chill puff pastry only as recommended; over-thawing can cause it to become sticky and difficult to handle.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
  • The egg wash helps create a beautiful golden crust but can be omitted for an egg-free option.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Keywords: Chocolate Danish, Cream Cheese Pastry, Puff Pastry Dessert, Chocolate Ganache, Breakfast Pastry

Find it online: https://freshrecipehub.com/chocolate-cream-cheese-danish-recipe/