Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

These Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes are an ideal treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy brunch or a festive gathering. With their flaky puff pastry and rich cream cheese filling, they offer a delightful balance of flavors that everyone will love. Plus, the ease of preparation makes them accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Using frozen puff pastry cuts down on prep time, making these danishes easy to whip up.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and chocolate ganache creates a rich, indulgent dessert experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even as a snack during the day.
• Impressive Presentation: These danishes look stunning on any table, making them great for entertaining guests.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add fruit or nuts on top for extra flavor and texture.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing these danishes even more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Hand mixer
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for even baking and browning of the pastries.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Hand mixer: Ensures smooth and fluffy cream cheese filling quickly.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create these delightful Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes, gather the following ingredients:

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

How to Make Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

Step 1: Thaw Puff Pastry

Place frozen puff pastry on the counter for 30 minutes to thaw.

Step 2: Prepare Chocolate Ganache

While waiting for the pastry to thaw:
1. Pour chocolate chips into a bowl.
2. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium-low heat until steaming.
3. Pour hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for about 90 seconds.
4. Stir gently until smooth; heat in microwave if needed until fully melted.
5. Allow to sit at room temperature for about two hours until it reaches a pudding-like texture.

Step 3: Make Cream Cheese Filling

In a small bowl:
1. Beat cream cheese using a hand mixer on high speed for one minute.
2. Add white sugar and continue beating for another minute.
3. Mix in pure vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Prepare Pastry Sheets

On a lightly floured surface:
1. Push seams of each puff pastry sheet together with your fingers.
2. Cut each sheet into thirds along the seams to create three long rectangles per sheet.
3. Cut each rectangle in half to yield six rectangles from each sheet (totaling twelve).

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl, mix together one large egg and one teaspoon of water:
1. Use a pastry brush to spread the egg wash around the edges of each rectangle.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while preparing your pastries.

Step 7: Shape Pastries

On parchment-lined baking sheets:
1. Place six rectangles per sheet.
2. Cut another rectangle shape into each rectangle without cutting all the way through—this allows the pastry to rise around the filling.

Step 8: Fill Pastries

Spoon one tablespoon of cream cheese filling inside each box created by your cuts.

Step 9: Chill Pastries

Place one baking sheet in the fridge and one in the freezer:
1. Let the frozen sheet sit for five minutes before baking—this keeps the butter cold.

Step 10: Bake Pastries

Bake one sheet at a time:
1. Bake for approximately 17-20 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Let cool completely before removing from baking sheets.

Step 11: Add Chocolate Ganache

Once cooled:
1. Spoon chocolate ganache over each filled danish, ensuring some cream cheese peeks out around the edges.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes!

How to Serve Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

These delightful chocolate cream cheese danishes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy afternoon treat, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the danishes alongside a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of color and flavor.

Drizzled with Extra Chocolate

• Add an extra drizzle of chocolate ganache on top of each danish for an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these pastries with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea to complement the rich flavors and provide a relaxing break.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lightly dollop whipped cream on top of the danishes for added creaminess that enhances the overall dessert experience.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Add a sprig of fresh mint on each plate for a refreshing garnish that adds both color and aroma.

Served Warm

• For the best taste, serve the danishes warm straight from the oven, allowing the chocolate to melt slightly and enhance their deliciousness.

How to Perfect Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

Perfecting your chocolate cream cheese danish is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your pastry comes out perfectly every time.

• Use Cold Puff Pastry – Keep your puff pastry cold until you’re ready to bake. This helps it rise beautifully and become flaky.

• Don’t Skip the Egg Wash – Applying an egg wash before baking gives your pastries a golden, shiny finish that’s visually appealing.

• Allow Ganache to Set – After making your chocolate ganache, let it sit at room temperature until it reaches a pudding-like consistency for easy spreading.

• Space Them Out – When placing the danishes on the baking sheet, make sure they have enough space between them to allow for rising during baking.

• Cool Before Serving – Allow the danishes to cool completely after baking. This prevents them from becoming soggy when adding the ganache.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

To create a well-rounded meal or snack, consider pairing your chocolate cream cheese danishes with these delicious side dishes.

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and balances the richness of the danish.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a creamy complement that contrasts nicely with the flaky pastry.

3. Chia Seed Pudding – Prepare chia seed pudding in advance for a nutritious side that pairs well with sweet treats.

4. Creamy Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the sweet flavors in your dessert.

5. Savory Quiche – Serve individual portions of quiche for a hearty side that complements sweet pastries beautifully.

6. Spiced Nuts – Offer spiced nuts as a crunchy snack option alongside your danishes for added texture and flavor contrast.

7. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips – These sweet chips can be dipped into fruit salsa or enjoyed plain; they make a fun addition to any dessert spread.

8. Baked Apples – Serve baked apples seasoned with cinnamon as a warm, comforting side that enhances the overall dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people encounter challenges when making Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for perfect results.

• Not letting pastry thaw properly: Always allow your puff pastry sheets to thaw completely before using them. This ensures they puff up nicely during baking.
• Skipping the egg wash: Applying an egg wash gives your danishes a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step; mix an egg with water and brush it on before baking.
• Overfilling with cream cheese: Be careful not to overfill each rectangle with cream cheese filling. Use about 1 tablespoon per square to prevent spills while baking.
• Not chilling before baking: Chilling the assembled danishes in the freezer for a few minutes helps maintain their shape, so they don’t spread too much in the oven.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on the danishes as they bake. Ovens vary, so check them around the 17-minute mark to ensure they don’t burn.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

• Wrap individual danishes tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the danishes on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each danish on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-45 seconds. This is quicker but may make them slightly softer.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes. This method helps keep them flaky.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish.

What is a Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish?

A Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish is a delightful pastry made from puff pastry filled with creamy chocolate-infused cream cheese and topped with rich chocolate ganache.

Can I use other fillings besides cream cheese?

Yes! You can customize your danish by using fruit preserves, chocolate hazelnut spread, or even nut butter as fillings instead of cream cheese.

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

Your danishes are ready when they are golden brown and puffed up nicely. This usually takes about 17-20 minutes of baking.

Can I prepare these danishes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just remember to chill them briefly before placing them in the oven.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to accommodate various tastes. Feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings, making this recipe uniquely yours. Give it a try, and enjoy delicious homemade pastries!