Why I’ll Love This Recipe
I adore how the buttery pastry cradles a luxuriously tangy cream cheese filling that’s brightened with fresh peach flavor. The contrast between flaky layers and creamy, fruity center makes every bite feel both indulgent and refreshingly light.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Puff pastry sheets (thawed but still cold)
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Cream cheese, softened
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Granulated sugar
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Vanilla extract
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Fresh peach, thinly sliced (or canned peach with juice drained)
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Egg (for egg wash)
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Optional: lemon zest, powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
I roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares or rectangles. I mix softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla (plus a touch of lemon zest if I’m using it). On each pastry piece, I spoon a dollop of the cream cheese blend, then gently nestle peach slices on top. I fold up the edges slightly to secure the filling, brush with egg wash for shine, and bake until the pastry is puffed and golden. Once cooled, I dust them with powdered sugar if I’m in the mood for extra sweetness.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8 Danish pastries depending on the size of the pastry squares. Prep takes about 15 minutes, and baking runs around 15–20 minutes, so within 35 minutes, I have a batch of freshly baked pastries ready to enjoy.
Variations
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I switch up the fruit—using berries like raspberry or blackberry when peaches aren’t in season.
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For a sweeter twist, I’ll drizzle a simple glaze (powdered sugar mixed with milk or peach juice) over the warm danishes.
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I’ve also stirred a sprinkle of almond extract into the cream cheese for a nutty undertone.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days—but I’ll be honest, they seldom last that long. To reheat, I pop them in a 325°F oven for 5–7 minutes or warm gently in the microwave with a paper towel to keep them moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Absolutely—I usually use frozen dough. I thaw it in the fridge so it stays cold and puffs well in the oven.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes—I assemble them and refrigerate, then bake fresh when I’m ready—just add a couple of minutes to the baking time if they’re cold.
What’s the best way to cut fruit so it doesn’t make pastry soggy?
I slice thinly and gently pat the fruit dry before placing on the cream cheese—that keeps everything crisp and delicious.
Can I make them dairy-free?
I swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free version and use a dairy-free puff pastry—works beautifully with peach’s natural sweetness.
Can I freeze Danish after baking?
Yes—I’ll freeze the cooled, baked danishes in a single layer, then reheat from frozen in the oven, adding a few extra minutes until they’re warmed through and flaky again.
Conclusion
I’ve found that this Peach Cream Cheese Danish brings the best of comfort and elegance—flaky pastry, creamy filling, and juicy fruit all in one bite. Whether I’m serving it for brunch, a special breakfast, or just because, it never fails to feel indulgent yet joyful.
PrintPeach Cream Cheese Danish
Flaky pastry filled with creamy cheese and juicy peaches for a sweet, bakery-style treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 danishes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, European-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Danish Pastry:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
1–2 fresh peaches, thinly sliced
1 Tbsp peach jam or preserves (optional, for extra peach flavor)
Egg Wash:
1 egg, beaten with 1 Tbsp water
Glaze:
½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 Tbsp milk or cream
¼ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare filling: In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Prepare pastry: Roll out puff pastry slightly and cut into 4 equal squares. Score a ½-inch border around each square without cutting all the way through.
Fill: Spread a spoonful of cream cheese mixture inside each scored square. Arrange peach slices on top, slightly overlapping. If using peach jam, brush lightly over the fruit.
Egg wash: Brush pastry edges with egg wash.
Bake: Transfer to prepared baking sheet and bake 15–18 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm danishes before serving.
Notes
Fruit swap: Nectarines or apricots work well too.
Extra shine: Brush fruit with warmed apricot jam after baking for a glossy finish.
Make-ahead: Assemble danishes, cover, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.
Frozen peaches: Thaw, drain, and pat dry before using to avoid sogginess.