I’ve always loved starting my mornings with a warm, flaky cheese Danish, just like the ones you get at Starbucks. There’s something irresistible about that perfect balance of creamy cheese filling and buttery pastry that makes it a favorite treat.
But what if you could make this delicious pastry right in your own kitchen? With my copycat Starbucks Cheese Danish recipe, you’ll recreate the classic bakery experience without stepping foot outside your home. Let’s dive in and bring a little bit of that Starbucks magic to your breakfast table.
Ingredients
- Puff Pastry:
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
- Toppings (Optional):
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh berries, for garnish
Tools and Equipment
To recreate the delightful Starbucks Cheese Danish at home, gather the following tools and equipment:
- Baking Sheet
A large, flat baking sheet provides ample space for your Danishes to expand without touching.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
These surfaces prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
- Rolling Pin
Essential for flattening the puff pastry to the perfect thickness.
- Mixing Bowls
You’ll need separate bowls for preparing the cheese filling and egg wash.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer
Use a whisk for manual mixing or an electric mixer for a smoother cheese filling.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors and textures.
- Pastry Brush
Ideal for evenly applying the egg wash to achieve a golden-brown finish.
- Knife or Pizza Cutter
Handy for cutting the puff pastry into uniform squares or rectangles.
- Cooling Rack
Allows your Danishes to cool properly, preventing soggy bottoms.
- Optional: Piping Bag and Decorating Tips
Perfect for adding intricate designs or additional toppings if desired.
Having these tools on hand will streamline the baking process and help you achieve professional-quality results.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing your Starbucks Cheese Danish copycat recipe ahead of time can save you mornings and ensure you always have a delicious treat on hand. Here’s how I like to organize the process to make your baking experience seamless and stress-free.
Preparing the Dough
- Thaw the Puff Pastry
Remove the puff pastry from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures it’s pliable but still cold, perfect for handling.
- Roll Out the Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry to smooth any creases. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky texture we all love.
- Cut and Shape
Using a knife or pizza cutter, divide the pastry into equal squares. Typically, I find 8-inch squares work best for a generous Danish.
- Assemble the Danishes
Place a dollop of the prepared cheese filling in the center of each square. Fold the corners towards the center, overlapping them slightly to form the classic Danish shape.
- Apply Egg Wash
Brush the tops of each Danish with the egg wash to give them a beautiful golden-brown finish when baked.
- Chill or Freeze
- Chilling: Arrange the assembled Danishes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place the baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the Danishes to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two weeks.
Storing and Baking
- Storage Tips
- Refrigerated Danishes: Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Frozen Danishes: When ready to bake, transfer the frozen Danishes to the refrigerator the night before. This gradual thawing helps maintain their structure and texture.
- Baking Instructions
About 10-15 minutes before you plan to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If baking from frozen, there’s no need to thaw them first; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Bake to Perfection
Place the Danishes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-baking.
- Cooling and Serving
Allow the Danishes to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. If desired, dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries before serving. Enjoy them warm for that perfect, melty cheese center.
Tips for Success
| Step | Tip |
|---|---|
| Thawing Pastry | Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results. |
| Rolling Dough | Ensure the surface is lightly floured to prevent sticking. |
| Assembling | Work quickly to keep the pastry cold and prevent it from shrinking. |
| Baking from Frozen | No need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. |
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can effortlessly enjoy homemade Starbucks-style Cheese Danishes any day of the week. Whether you’re prepping for a busy morning or planning a brunch, these steps ensure your pastries are always fresh and delectable.
Instructions
Let’s dive into crafting these delightful Cheese Danishes together. Follow each step to achieve that perfect Starbucks-inspired treat.
Prepare the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry.
- Gently roll the puff pastry to smooth out any creases, keeping the thickness even.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 4×4-inch squares.
- Arrange the squares on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
Prepare the Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine 8 ounces (225g) of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup (50g) of granulated sugar.
- Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the mixture.
- Beat the ingredients together until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Refrigerate the filling while you assemble the Danishes to keep it firm.
Assemble the Danish
- Spoon a generous tablespoon of the chilled cheese filling into the center of each puff pastry square.
- Fold the corners of each square toward the center, creating a pinwheel pattern or leaving them open for a classic Danish look.
- Press the edges gently to secure the filling inside the pastry.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 beaten egg and 1 tablespoon of water to make the egg wash.
- Brush the tops of each assembled Danish with the egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden finish.
Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake the Danishes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
Cooling and Serving
- Remove the Danishes from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes.
- If desired, dust the cooled Danishes with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
- Garnish with fresh berries to add a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve warm and enjoy the flaky, creamy goodness of your homemade Cheese Danishes.
Tips and Tricks
As a chef passionate about baking and reverse engineering beloved recipes, I’ve gathered some essential tips to help you perfect your Starbucks Cheese Danish copycat. These insights will ensure your Danishes are as delightful and flaky as the originals.
Handle Puff Pastry with Care
- Thaw Properly: Allow the puff pastry to thaw in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight. This ensures it remains firm and easy to work with.
- Keep It Cold: Work quickly and keep the dough chilled to prevent it from becoming sticky. If it warms up, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
Achieve the Perfect Cheese Filling
- Smooth Texture: Beat the cream cheese until creamy and free of lumps. This creates a silky filling that contrasts beautifully with the flaky pastry.
- Sweet Balance: Adjust the sugar to your taste, ensuring the filling isn’t overly sweet. A hint of lemon juice adds a refreshing tang.
Precision in Cutting and Assembling
- Use Sharp Tools: Utilize a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for clean, precise cuts. This helps the edges seal properly, preventing the filling from leaking.
- Seal Edges Well: Brush the edges with egg wash and press them firmly with a fork to ensure the filling stays inside during baking.
Baking for Flakiness and Color
- Preheat Oven: Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature to ensure even baking and a golden-brown finish.
- Even Baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to promote uniform coloring.
Enhance the Glaze
- Egg Wash for Shine: Brushing the pastries with an egg wash before baking gives them a beautiful, glossy finish.
- Optional Toppings: After baking, dust with powdered sugar or add fresh berries for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Chill Before Baking: After assembling, chill the Danishes in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps maintain their shape during baking.
- Freezing Option: You can freeze assembled Danishes before baking. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
- Proper Storage: Store cooled Danishes in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.
Presentation Ideas
- Serve Warm: Enjoy your Danishes warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
- Garnish Creatively: Top with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to elevate the presentation.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Pastry is soggy | Ensure the puff pastry is properly thawed and chilled before baking. |
| Filling leaks out | Seal the edges firmly with egg wash and press with a fork. |
| Uneven baking | Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time. |
| Pastry not flaky enough | Keep the dough cold and handle it minimally to preserve layers. |
Conclusion
Bringing these Starbucks-style cheese danishes into my kitchen has been a game changer. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh pastries filling the house.
I love how easy it is to make them at home and customize with your favorite toppings. Whether it’s for breakfast or a sweet snack, these danishes never disappoint.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the cozy feel of homemade baked goods. Happy baking!
