Randy Chandler
Cheese danishes are made with a cream cheese filling. The cream cheese is mixed with powdered sugar, vanilla, egg yolk, and salt until it reaches a smooth and light texture. The filling is then piped into the centre of the pastry. The type of cheese used in a cheese danish can vary, with some recipes calling for cream cheese, while others use cheeses that are not easily pronounced. Additionally, some recipes add lemon to the cream cheese mixture.
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What You'll Learn
Cream cheese is the most popular cheese
Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Its mild flavour and creamy texture make it a popular choice for baked goods, dips, and spreads. When used in a cheese Danish, the cream cheese provides a tangy and creamy contrast to the sweet glaze and flaky pastry. It also pairs well with a variety of additional fillings, such as fruit jam, chocolate chips, or fresh berries.
While cream cheese is the most common cheese used in a cheese Danish, some variations do exist. Some recipes call for the addition of other cheeses, such as mascarpone or ricotta, to the cream cheese filling to add depth of flavour and a richer texture. Other recipes may omit the cheese altogether and focus on a fruit or chocolate filling.
The cream cheese filling in a cheese Danish is typically piped into the centre of the pastry after it has been baked and cooled. This ensures that the filling is smooth and creamy, rather than melted and runny. The glaze, which is usually a mixture of milk and sugar, is then drizzled over the top of the pastry, adding a sweet and sticky contrast to the creamy cheese filling.
Overall, cream cheese is the most popular cheese used in a cheese Danish due to its versatility, mild flavour, and creamy texture. It serves as a delicious base for a variety of additional flavours and helps to create a decadent and indulgent breakfast or dessert treat.
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Other cheeses are used, but less common
Cream cheese is the most common type of cheese used in a cheese danish. However, other cheeses can also be used, albeit less commonly.
Some recipes for cheese danishes call for a combination of cheeses, including those that are harder to pronounce. While cream cheese is typically used as the base, adding another type of cheese can create a unique flavour profile and texture. For instance, a small amount of brown cheese can be added to the cream cheese mixture to create a distinct flavour in different bites. This technique is reminiscent of a bakery technique that involves adding brown sugar to the cheese and pastry mixture.
Cheese danishes are versatile and can accommodate a range of cheese options. For those who enjoy a tangy flavour, substituting a portion of the cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta cheese can add a delightful twist. These cheeses have a higher moisture content and a milder flavour, creating a softer and smoother filling. This variation can be especially appealing to those who find the standard cream cheese filling too rich or heavy.
Additionally, some adventurous bakers might experiment with more assertive cheeses, such as a sharp cheddar or a pungent blue cheese. While these choices may seem unconventional for a sweet pastry, they can provide an intriguing contrast when paired with the sweetness of the glaze and any additional toppings. However, it is important to use these stronger cheeses sparingly to avoid overwhelming the delicate balance of flavours in the danish.
Ultimately, while cream cheese is the traditional and most popular choice for cheese danishes, there is room for creativity and personal preference when it comes to cheese selection. Whether it's adding a complementary cheese to enhance the flavour or opting for a bold substitute, the possibilities are endless for those willing to experiment and put their own twist on this classic pastry.
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Thawing the puff pastry is essential
For a flaky and delicious homemade cheese Danish, it is essential to use puff pastry as a key ingredient. Puff pastry is typically sold in block form, or as sheets, and it is important to properly thaw the pastry before use.
Thawing the puff pastry is crucial because it ensures the pastry is pliable and easy to work with. If the pastry is still frozen or partially frozen, it will crack and tear when you attempt to roll or cut it. The cracking can occur at the seams, compromising the structural integrity of the pastry. Thus, it is important to follow the package instructions for thawing, which typically involves bringing the pastry to room temperature or thawing it overnight in a refrigerator.
The ideal thawing method depends on the specific type of puff pastry and your time constraints. If you are in a hurry, you can thaw the pastry at room temperature, but this requires careful monitoring. Press the dough gently every 15 to 20 minutes to check its progress. The goal is to reach a pliable state where you can unfold and roll the pastry, without letting it get too soft or reach room temperature.
To avoid the challenges of thawing at room temperature, you can opt for a slower thawing process in the refrigerator. This method is more forgiving and reduces the risk of the butter melting into the dough, which is essential for achieving the desired flaky finish. Refrigerator thawing typically takes around an hour or two, or even overnight for thicker pastries.
By properly thawing the puff pastry, you can create a flawless base for your cheese Danish. This step may seem simple, but it is essential for ensuring the rest of your recipe comes together smoothly and yields the best results.
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The cream cheese filling can be made ahead of time
The cream cheese filling for a cheese Danish can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer. This can be done by preparing the filling according to your chosen recipe and then freezing it in an airtight container. When you are ready to use it, simply thaw the cream cheese mixture in the refrigerator before using it as a filling for your Danish.
To make a basic cream cheese filling, you will need cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. You can also add lemon zest to this mixture for a tangy flavour. For a sweeter filling, you can include powdered sugar and milk. If you want to reduce the sweetness, you can omit the sugar, especially if you plan to add a glaze on top of your Danish.
Some recipes suggest adding an egg yolk and salt to the cream cheese mixture for a richer filling. You can also experiment with different flavours by adding mashed strawberries or apple butter to the cream cheese. Lemon curd is another popular variation that can be added to the cream cheese or used as a glaze.
When making the cream cheese filling, it is important to ensure that the cream cheese is at a spreadable consistency. If you are using block cream cheese, it may be helpful to whisk it beforehand to soften it. This will make it easier to mix with the other ingredients and create a smooth filling.
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Fruit jam is a popular addition
Fruit jam is added to the cream cheese filling, which is usually made by mixing cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla, egg yolk, and a pinch of salt. This filling is then piped into the centre of the pastry, with the jam spooned on top. Some recipes suggest getting creative with the fillings, adding any jams, fresh fruit, or other fillings you like.
The cream cheese filling can also be made by mixing the cream cheese with room temperature butter, adding powdered sugar, and mixing until it forms a cream cheese frosting consistency. This can then be spread onto the puff pastry, which is then folded to create the classic Danish shape.
Fruit jam adds a burst of flavour to the cheese Danish, complementing the creamy, buttery flavours of the pastry and filling. It also adds a touch of sweetness, enhancing the dessert's appeal as a breakfast or brunch option. The jam can be added before or after baking, depending on personal preference and the desired texture of the jam.
Overall, the addition of fruit jam to a cheese Danish is a delicious way to customise this flaky and buttery treat, making it even more irresistible and perfect for any time of the day.
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Frequently asked questions
Cream cheese is used in cheese danishes.
Puff pastry, powdered sugar, vanilla, egg yolk, salt, and milk are some of the other ingredients used.
Bake at 400°F for 10 minutes, then rotate the baking sheet and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the borders of the puff pastry are golden brown.
You can add any jams, fresh fruit, or other fillings you like. Some popular choices include raspberry jam, lemon curd, or strawberry jam.
