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Lemon Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish

Lemon Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish

This Lemon Raspberry Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful treat that brings together flaky puff pastry, tangy lemon, sweet raspberries, and creamy smooth cream cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it offers a harmonious blend of flavors with an elegant look and quick preparation using store-bought puff pastry.

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry Base

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)

Cream Cheese Filling

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (freshly grated)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Fruit Topping

  • 1/2 cup fresh raspberries

Finishing Touches

  • 1 beaten egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract if using. Mix until creamy and smooth, making sure the lemon zest is evenly distributed for bright citrus flavor.
  2. Roll Out and Cut Puff Pastry: Lightly flour your work surface and unfold the puff pastry sheet. Roll gently to smooth out creases, then cut into equal squares about 4 to 5 inches across, depending on your preferred size.
  3. Assemble the Danishes: Place a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square. Top with several fresh raspberries, pressing them slightly into the filling but keeping their shape. Fold the corners or edges to create a neat, enclosed shape while leaving some filling visible for the classic Danish appearance.
  4. Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the edges of each Danish with the beaten egg wash to ensure a golden, shiny finish. Arrange the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
  5. Cool and Serve: Let the Danishes cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and flaky texture.

Notes

  • Chill your cream cheese before mixing to ensure it blends smoothly without becoming runny.
  • Do not overcrowd the raspberries to prevent sogginess during baking.
  • Use freshly grated lemon zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor.
  • Apply egg wash generously on pastry edges for even browning and shine.
  • Serve warm to highlight crisp pastry and melty cream cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lemon Danish, Raspberry Pastry, Cream Cheese Danish, Breakfast Pastry, Puff Pastry Dessert