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Homemade Danish

Delicious homemade Danish pastries filled with sweet cream cheese and a hint of lemon. Perfect for breakfast or a special treat.
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Danish Dough

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.005 cup instant yeast
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup warm milk about 105-115°F
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg

Cream Cheese Filling

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.5 tablespoon lemon zest

Egg Wash and Glaze

  • 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water
  • 0.5 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions
 

Make the Dough

  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, softened butter, and egg. Add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

  • In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Stir in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until well combined.

Assemble and Bake

  • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.
  • Place about 2 tablespoons of cream cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough edges over the filling, pleating as needed to create a Danish shape. Ensure the filling is mostly enclosed.
  • Place the assembled danishes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely and let them rest for another 20-30 minutes.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the danishes with the egg wash.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
  • While the danishes are baking, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to make a glaze. Drizzle over the warm danishes once they are out of the oven.

Notes

Allow the danishes to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh.