Name: Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Danish
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced thinly; 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to toss with peaches); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken peach filling)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish is a unique and flavorful twist on traditional Danish pastries. The combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet peaches creates a delightful contrast, while the braided puff pastry adds an elegant touch to the dish. The texture is light, buttery, and flaky on the outside, with a creamy, fruity filling on the inside. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it by yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make with store-bought puff pastry, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced thinly
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to toss with peaches)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken peach filling)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Use a sharp knife to cut slits along the sides of the pastry, leaving the center intact for the filling.
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly down the center of the puff pastry.
In a separate bowl, toss the thinly sliced peaches with lemon juice and cornstarch (if using). Arrange the peach slices on top of the cream cheese filling.
Carefully fold the slits of the puff pastry over the filling, creating a braided or lattice pattern by alternating the sides and overlapping the dough.
Beat the egg and brush it over the top of the braided pastry to create a golden finish when baked.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Allow the Danish to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes 4-6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Other fruits: Swap peaches for other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
Cinnamon: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture or sprinkle it on top of the fruit filling for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nuts: Add a handful of chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the peach filling for extra crunch.
Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled Danish for a touch of sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the Danish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore its crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, canned peaches can be used. Be sure to drain and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture that could make the pastry soggy.

2. Can I freeze the unbaked Danish?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish. Assemble it as directed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

3. How do I make the pastry more golden?

To get a deep golden color on your pastry, ensure you brush the dough generously with the egg wash before baking. For an even better finish, add a pinch of salt to the egg wash.

4. Can I make this without cream cheese?

If you prefer a different filling, you can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a smoother, lighter texture.

5. Can I add a glaze to the Danish?

Yes, you can drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled Danish for extra sweetness and a beautiful finish.

6. How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?

Make sure to bake the Danish long enough so that the pastry is golden and crisp. Also, be sure to pat the peaches dry if they release too much juice.

7. How can I make the filling thicker?

If you want a thicker filling, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the cream cheese mixture to give it a firmer consistency.

8. Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?

While puff pastry gives the best texture for this recipe, you could use phyllo dough. However, it will be flakier and lighter, and the baking time may need adjustment.

9. Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes, frozen puff pastry works perfectly. Just be sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using it in this recipe.

10. Can I make a sugar-free version?

Yes, you can replace the sugar in the filling with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to make a sugar-free version of this Danish.

Conclusion

Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish is a delightful pastry that beautifully combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with the richness of cream cheese, all wrapped in flaky, buttery puff pastry. The braided design adds an elegant touch, making this dessert or breakfast option perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it as a sweet treat at a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Simple to make but full of flavor, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and flaky textures.