The Ultimate Cream Cheese Danish Recipe 3 Ways Easy to Scratch

introduction

Craving a Cream Cheese Danish that tastes like it came straight from a bakery? You’re in the right place. This recipe shows you how to make it three simple ways using crescent rolls, puff pastry, or soft homemade dough. Each version delivers that creamy, buttery bite you love without the stress. Whether you want something fast or from scratch, you’ll find your perfect method right here.

The Definitive Danish Dough Guide: Which Method Is Right for You

Choosing the right dough makes all the difference in your Cream Cheese Danish. Each method offers its own texture, flavor, and level of effort. Whether you want something quick for breakfast or prefer a slow, rewarding bake, this guide helps you pick your perfect match.

Each of these methods creates delicious results. The shortcut doughs save time while still delivering a golden, creamy treat. The scratch version gives you the satisfaction of true homemade baking with deep flavor and soft texture.

Method 1: The Easiest Cheese Danish Crescent Roll Shortcut

If you need a quick breakfast pastry, this Crescent Roll Cheese Danish is your best choice. It takes only minutes to prepare and tastes rich, buttery, and sweet. Perfect for busy mornings or last-minute guests.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 18 to 20 minutes
Bake Temperature: 375°F
Yield: 8 pastries

Ingredients

• 1 package crescent roll dough
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 egg white for brushing

Step-by-Step Shaping The Crescent Roll Braid

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
2. Unroll the crescent dough and press the seams together to form one large rectangle.
   
3. Cut 1-inch strips along both long sides of the dough, leaving the center solid for filling.
   
4. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, egg yolk, and flour until smooth.
   
5. Spread the filling down the center of the dough.
   
6. Fold the side strips over the filling in a crisscross pattern to create a braid.
   
7. Brush lightly with egg white for shine.
   
8. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until golden brown and slightly puffed.
   
9. Let cool for 5 minutes before drizzling with glaze or dusting with powdered sugar.
   

Pro Tip: Keep the dough chilled until ready to use. This helps the seams stay sealed and gives a cleaner, flakier finish.

Method 2 Bakery Style Puff Pastry Squares The Quick Classic

This version gives you that classic bakery-style Cream Cheese Danish look with crisp, buttery layers and a rich, creamy filling. It is elegant enough for brunch yet simple enough for a weekday treat.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 20 to 22 minutes
Bake Temperature: 400°F
Yield: 8 pastries

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed but still cold
• 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
• 1/ 4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest or juice
• 1 egg white for brushing
• Jam or fresh berries for topping

Achieving the Perfect Puff: Controlling the Shape

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
2. Cut the puff pastry into 8 equal squares.
   
3. Lightly score a small border around each square without cutting through.
   
4. Poke the center a few times with a fork to prevent the filling area from rising too much.
   
5. Place a spoonful of cream cheese filling in the middle of each square.
   
6. Brush only the borders with egg white to help with browning without burning.
   
7. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes until golden and crisp.
   
8. Let cool slightly before adding toppings.
   

Topping Success Fresh Fruit Jam or Frozen Berries

You can use fruit jam or fresh berries, depending on what you have. Jam gives a sweet, glossy finish while berries add freshness. If you use frozen berries, do not thaw them first. They will bake perfectly and keep their color.

These puff pastry danishes come out flaky, rich, and picture-perfect. Ideal for coffee mornings or special gatherings.

Starbucks Copycat Tip: Replicating the Look and Flavor

If you want your Cream Cheese Danish to look and taste just like the popular Starbucks version, puff pastry is the secret. The coffee shop favorite uses buttery puff pastry with a rich cream cheese center and a thick glaze on top.

To match that flavor and texture, cut your puff pastry into neat, even squares for a clean shape. Poke the centers gently with a fork to keep the middle from puffing too high. Brush only the borders with egg white for an even golden edge.

After baking, let the pastries cool for a few minutes, then drizzle generously with powdered sugar glaze for that signature Starbucks finish. The result is flaky, creamy, and perfectly sweet with that recognizable coffee shop style everyone loves.

Method 3: The Best Cream Cheese Danish From Scratch Soft Yeast Dough

For those who love the satisfaction of true homemade baking, this Cream Cheese Danish from Scratch delivers the richest flavor and softest texture. It takes time, but the result is worth every minute.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Bake Temperature: 350°F
Yield: 10 pastries

Ingredients

• 2 1/ 4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 /4 cup warm water, about 110°F
• 1 /2 cup sour cream
• 1 /4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 /4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 /2 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
• 1 /4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Preparing the Rich Danish Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
   
2. In a saucepan, warm sour cream, melted butter, and sugar until just combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
   
3. Add the egg, vanilla, and yeast mixture, stirring until smooth.
   
4. Gradually add flour and salt until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
   
5. Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
   

Chilling and Shaping the Traditional Braid

1. Roll the chilled dough into a large rectangle about 12 by 8 inches.
   
2. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly down the center.
   
3. Cut strips along both sides and fold them over the filling to form a braid.
   
4. Place the braid on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it proof (rise) for 20 minutes in a warm place until slightly puffy.
   
5. Brush lightly with an egg wash and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes until golden brown.
   

Note on Authenticity
This soft yeast dough is inspired by the traditional Mennonite-style Danish. It is not a laminated pastry, but it still delivers that sweet bakery flavor with a tender crumb. True laminated Danish involves multiple layers of butter and chilling steps similar to croissants.

The Perfect Cream Cheese Filling Recipe

Every Cream Cheese Danish needs a smooth and creamy filling that balances sweetness with a slight tang. This simple filling works for all three methods, giving your pastries that classic bakery taste.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or zest

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until soft and smooth.
   
2. Add powdered sugar and continue beating until fluffy.
   
3. Mix in vanilla and lemon juice for a bright, balanced flavor.
   
4. Chill the mixture for 10 minutes before spreading to help it hold its shape while baking.
   

Flavor Boosters Lemon Zest Almond Sour Cream

• Lemon Zest adds a clean citrus note that keeps the filling fresh.
  
• Almond Extract gives a warm bakery-style aroma.
  
• Sour Cream adds a richer texture if you like a creamier filling.
  

Using room temperature cream cheese is key to a silky, lump-free texture. This filling turns every pastry into a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth treat that pairs perfectly with flaky pastry or soft yeast dough.

Essential Finishing Touches: Glazes and Drizzles

The final touch makes your Cream Cheese Danish look and taste irresistible. A light glaze adds sweetness and shine while keeping the pastry soft. You can choose a classic powdered sugar glaze or a bright lemon glaze for extra flavor.

Classic Powdered Sugar Glaze

Ingredients

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
   
2. Drizzle over slightly cooled pastries with a spoon or piping bag.
   
3. Let the glaze set for 5 minutes before serving.
   

Lemon Glaze

Ingredients

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

1. Mix all ingredients until creamy and pourable.
   
2. Adjust consistency by adding more sugar for thickness or juice for brightness.
   
3. Drizzle over warm pastries for a tangy, sweet finish.

A good glaze gives your Danish that professional bakery look while enhancing flavor. Whether you prefer a hint of lemon or a pure sweet touch, these easy glazes make every bite shine.

Beyond Sweet Savory Cream Cheese Danish Variations

If you enjoy savory flavors, try turning your Cream Cheese Danish into a delicious snack or light meal. The same soft dough and creamy filling work beautifully with herbs, cheese, and vegetables. These versions are simple to make and look just as impressive as the sweet ones.

Asparagus and Parmesan Danish

• Spread cream cheese on the dough and top with blanched asparagus spears.
  
• Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and a pinch of black pepper.
  
• Bake until golden and enjoy warm with a drizzle of olive oil.
  

Sun Dried Tomato Pesto and Basil Danish

• Mix a spoonful of pesto into your cream cheese filling.
  
• Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a few fresh basil leaves.
  
• Bake until puffed and slightly crisp for a flavorful bite.
  

Smoked Salmon and Dill Danish

• Combine cream cheese with lemon juice and fresh dill.
  
• Spread on baked Danish rounds and top with slices of smoked salmon.
  
• Add a few capers or thin onion slices if desired.
  

These savory options show just how versatile a Cream Cheese Danish can be. They are great for brunch, parties, or any time you want something buttery, creamy, and full of flavor.

Cost Analysis: Store Bought vs Homemade Savings

Baking your own Cream Cheese Danish is not just rewarding but also saves money. A simple cost comparison shows how affordable homemade baking can be compared to store prices.

When you make your own pastries, you spend less than one-third of what you would at a bakery while enjoying fresher ingredients and customizable flavors. You also have the freedom to adjust sweetness, add toppings, or prepare savory versions.

Homemade baking delivers bakery-quality results at a fraction of the cost, making your Cream Cheese Danish both delicious and budget-friendly.

FAQs and Troubleshooting Your Cheat Sheet

Even experienced bakers run into small issues when making a Cream Cheese Danish. Here are the most common questions and quick solutions to help you get perfect results every time.

With these tips, your Cream Cheese Danish will come out flaky, golden, and delicious every time, whether you bake the easy version or the full scratch recipe.

Ready to Bake

Now that you know how to make a Cream Cheese Danish three different ways, it is time to get baking. Each method brings its own charm, from the fast crescent roll version to the buttery puff pastry and the rich yeast dough. No matter which you choose, every bite will be golden flaky, and filled with creamy sweetness.

Try one method today and save the others for another weekend. Once you taste your homemade Danish, you may never go back to store-bought again. Share your results, leave a comment, or rate the recipe to help other bakers find their perfect version too.

The Ultimate Cream Cheese Danish Recipe – 3 Ways (Easy to Scratch)

Craving a Cream Cheese Danish that tastes like it came straight from a bakery? This ultimate guide shows you how to make it three easy ways — with crescent rolls, puff pastry, or soft homemade yeast dough. Whether you want a quick breakfast or an authentic, from-scratch bake, every method delivers buttery, flaky layers and a creamy, tangy center.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, brunch, Dessert

Cuisine American, European

Servings 8 pastries

Calories 290 kcal

Ingredients

  

Crescent Roll Danish

• 1 package crescent roll dough
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 egg white for brushing

Puff Pastry Danish

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed but cold
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon zest or juice
• 1 egg white for brushing
• jam or fresh berries for topping

Yeast Dough Danish (From Scratch)

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt

Cream Cheese Filling (For All Methods)

• 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or zest

Classic Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• Crescent Roll Danish
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Unroll crescent dough and press seams together to form a rectangle.
• Cut 1-inch strips on both long sides, leaving the center for filling.
• Mix cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, egg yolk, and flour until smooth.
• Spread filling in the center, fold strips over to form a braid, and brush with egg white.
• Bake 18–20 minutes until golden and puffed. Cool and glaze or dust with powdered sugar.
• Puff Pastry Danish
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Cut pastry into 8 squares and lightly score a border. Poke centers with a fork.
• Place cream cheese filling in center, brush edges with egg white, and bake 20–22 minutes.
• Cool slightly, then top with jam or berries and drizzle with glaze.
• Yeast Dough Danish (From Scratch)
• Dissolve yeast in warm water and let sit until foamy. In a saucepan, warm sour cream, butter, and sugar until combined.
• Mix in egg, vanilla, and yeast mixture. Add flour and salt to form a soft dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
• Cover and chill for 2 hours. Roll into rectangle, fill with cream cheese mixture, cut strips and braid.
• Proof 20 minutes, brush with egg wash, bake 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until golden.
• Classic Glaze
• Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled pastries.

Notes

To prevent runny filling, use full-fat cream cheese at room temperature. Keep dough chilled before baking for best flakiness. Store pastries in the refrigerator up to 3 days and reheat before serving. For a savory twist, try versions with asparagus and Parmesan, pesto and sun-dried tomatoes, or dill and smoked salmon.

• Author
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Marcie Nina

Hi, I’m Marcie Nina — a self-taught home cook with an unapologetic love for all things cheese. From gooey mac to late-night cheesecakes, I test (and retest) comfort recipes so you don’t have to. If it’s melty, creamy, or crumbly, I’m probably already obsessed with it.

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