Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

These Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes are a delightful treat that brings together the flaky texture of puff pastry with a rich, creamy filling. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these danishes are easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of cream cheese and chocolate makes them irresistible, and they can be enjoyed on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With frozen puff pastry as the base, these danishes come together in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Decadent Flavor: The rich cream cheese filling combined with smooth chocolate ganache delivers a satisfying taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: These danishes can be served warm or at room temperature, making them suitable for various occasions from casual breakfasts to elegant brunches.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layers and glossy chocolate topping make these treats look as good as they taste—perfect for impressing guests!
• Customizable: Feel free to add fruits or nuts to the filling for an extra twist on flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make preparing your Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Hand mixer: This tool makes it easy to beat the cream cheese until smooth, ensuring a lump-free filling.
• Baking sheets: A must-have for even baking; using multiple sheets allows you to bake more danishes at once.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier; it’s essential for perfecting your pastries.

Ingredients

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

For the Pastry

• 2 Frozen puff pastry sheets

For the Filling

• 8 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1/3 cup White granulated sugar
• 2 tsp Pure vanilla extract

For the Egg Wash

• 1 Large egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tsp Water (for egg wash)

For the Chocolate Ganache

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

How to Make Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

Step 1: Thaw the Puff Pastry

Begin by placing the frozen puff pastry on the counter for about 30 minutes to thaw.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Ganache

While waiting for the pastry to thaw:
1. Pour chocolate chips into a mixing bowl.
2. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium-low heat until steaming.
3. Pour hot cream over chocolate chips and let sit for about 1 minute and 30 seconds.
4. Stir gently until smooth; if needed, microwave any remaining chunks in 15-second intervals until fully melted. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 2 hours until it reaches a “pudding-like” texture.

Step 3: Prepare Cream Cheese Filling

In a small bowl:
1. Beat cream cheese with a hand mixer on high speed for 1 minute until smooth.
2. Add sugar and beat again for another minute.
3. Mix in vanilla extract thoroughly.

Step 4: Shape the Pastry

On a lightly floured surface:
1. Place thawed pastry sheets and press seams together gently.
2. Cut each sheet into thirds along the seams creating three long rectangles per sheet.
3. Cut each rectangle in half, resulting in six rectangles per sheet.

Step 5: Prepare Egg Wash

Mix egg and water together in a small bowl. Use a pastry brush to apply this mixture around the edge of each rectangle, which helps achieve a golden crust during baking.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while preparing your cookie sheets:
1. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Step 7: Cut Decorative Shapes

Place rectangles on cookie sheets (six per sheet):
1. Use a sharp knife to cut another rectangle shape inside each piece without cutting all the way through—leave about a half-inch edge.

Step 8: Fill with Cream Cheese Mixture

Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of cream cheese filling onto each rectangle’s center, spreading it within its “box.”

Step 9: Chill Before Baking

Refrigerate one sheet of pastries while placing another in the freezer for about five minutes before baking; this helps keep butter cold.

Step 10: Bake

Bake one sheet at a time:
1. Bake for approximately 17-20 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Allow cooling completely before proceeding with additional baking if needed.

Step 11: Add Ganache Topping

Once cooled:
1. Spoon chocolate ganache over each filled pastry, ensuring some cream cheese is still visible around 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 quiet afternoon at home, here are some great serving suggestions.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the danishes alongside a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the top of each danish. It enhances the flavors beautifully.

Accompanied by Coffee

• Pair these pastries with your favorite coffee or espresso. The rich flavors of chocolate and cream cheese complement coffee nicely.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• For an extra indulgence, top each danish with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. It adds lightness and creaminess to each bite.

Served Warm

• Enjoy the danishes warm straight from the oven. The melted chocolate ganache will be even more decadent when served hot.

How to Perfect Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

Achieving the perfect chocolate cream cheese danish requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.

• Thaw Properly: Allow frozen puff pastry to thaw completely on the counter for at least 30 minutes. This ensures it bakes evenly.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This creates a smooth filling.
• Chill Before Baking: After assembling, refrigerate or freeze the pastry for a few minutes before baking. This helps maintain its flaky texture.
• Watch Your Bake Time: Keep an eye on the pastries while they bake. Every oven is different; you want them golden brown but not overbaked.
• Let Cool Completely: Allow the danishes to cool fully before adding chocolate ganache. This prevents it from melting into the filling.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

Pairing side dishes with your chocolate cream cheese danish can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula and spinach adds freshness that balances the richness of the danish.
2. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad can provide a sweet and tangy contrast, enhancing your dessert without overwhelming it.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy counterpart that’s both healthy and satisfying.
4. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea can perfectly complement the flavors in chocolate cream cheese danish.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting flavor contrast while keeping things savory.
6. Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge even more by serving these pastries alongside a rich chocolate milkshake for true decadence.
7. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with warm pastries.
8. Nutty Granola Bars: Offer crunchy granola bars as a take-home treat that echoes the flavors in your danish while providing extra texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Skipping the Thawing Step: If you don’t give your puff pastry enough time to thaw, it won’t rise properly. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes on the counter.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can change the texture and taste. Always measure ingredients carefully, especially the cream cheese and sugar.
• Overmixing the Cream Cheese Filling: Overmixing can lead to a runny filling. Mix just until combined for a better consistency.
• Forgetting the Egg Wash: The egg wash gives your pastries a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step; mix egg with water and brush it on before baking.
• Cutting Too Deep: When making cuts in the pastry rectangles, ensure not to cut all the way through. Leaving a half-inch edge allows for proper rising during baking.
• Not Letting Ganache Cool Properly: Ganache needs time to set to achieve the right consistency. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 2 hours before using.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

• Freeze for up to 1 month in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Wrap each danish individually in plastic wrap for optimal freshness.

Reheating Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish.

Can I make Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and pastries in advance, then assemble and bake them when ready.

How do I know when my danishes are done?

Look for a golden-brown color on the puff pastry, which usually takes about 17-20 minutes of baking.

Can I customize the filling for my Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add fruit or nuts into the cream cheese filling for added flavor and texture.

What is the best way to serve these danishes?

Serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar on top or alongside fresh berries for a delightful touch.

How should I store leftover danishes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a delightful dessert, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Give this recipe a go and enjoy creating your own variations!

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Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of homemade Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes, a perfect blend of flaky puff pastry and rich cream cheese filling. These sweet treats are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them an excellent choice for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With a luscious chocolate ganache topping, these danishes are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Customize with your favorite fruits or nuts for an added twist. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, these danishes offer a delightful taste sensation that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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

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Instructions

1. Thaw the puff pastry for about 30 minutes.
2. In a bowl, combine chocolate chips and heat heavy cream until steaming; pour over chips and stir until smooth.
3. Beat cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth.
4. Roll out pastry on a floured surface, cut into rectangles, and apply an egg wash around edges.
5. Fill each rectangle with cream cheese mixture and chill briefly.
6. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 17-20 minutes until golden brown.
7. Once cooled, top with chocolate ganache.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 danish (80g)
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 60mg