Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked pastries wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? This Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish ensures that every Sunday morning feels like a special occasion, turning a simple breakfast into a delightful experience. With layers of buttery puff pastry enveloping a rich and creamy filling, this recipe is a perfect union of indulgence and ease. Not only is it a showstopper for brunch gatherings, but it’s also freezer-friendly, making it a great grab-and-go option for busy weekdays. Imagine enjoying a slice of this decadent pastry alongside your favorite cup of coffee. What surprise flavors or fillings will you add to make it uniquely your own? Why You’ll Crave This Danish? Decadent Flavors: Indulge in a rich blend of chocolate and cream cheese that creates a delightful experience. Each bite tastes like a little slice of heaven! Effortless Baking: No complex techniques here! With just puff pastry and a few ingredients, you’ll impress family and friends with minimal effort. Versatile Treat: Customize to your heart’s content! Add fruit preserves or flavored cream cheese for a personal touch. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the filling in advance and freeze for busy mornings, ensuring you have this blissful breakfast ready anytime. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, these danishes will elevate your brunch table, pairing wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a twist on the classic, try adding some fruit flavors with this Cottage Cheese Raspberry or go sweet with Yogurt Chocolate Chip! Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish Ingredients For the Dough • Puff Pastry – Use store-bought or homemade for a flaky and buttery base. • Egg (for egg wash) – Gives the pastry a beautiful golden-brown finish when baked; substitute with milk if desired. For the Filling • Cream Cheese – Provides a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with chocolate; mascarpone can be used for a different flavor profile. • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; consider a sugar alternative for lower sweetness. • Chocolate (Dark or Semi-Sweet) – Adds a luxurious, decadent flavor; milk chocolate can be a sweeter option for those with a sweet tooth. With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating a delightful Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish that brings comfort and joy to your breakfast table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish bakes evenly, achieving that perfect golden-brown finish. While your oven heats up, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Step 2: Prepare Filling In a medium bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of melted chocolate. Using a handheld mixer or whisk, blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set this delightful filling aside as you roll out your puff pastry. Step 3: Roll Out Puff Pastry On a lightly floured surface, roll out your thawed puff pastry to a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the pastry into smaller rectangles, approximately 4×6 inches each. Ensure you have enough rectangles to hold the creamy filling, making sure your Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish will be wonderfully flaky. Step 4: Fill Pastries Place a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry rectangle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the filling to leak during baking. Each rectangle should now be prepped and ready for sealing, bringing you closer to your delicious baked treat. Step 5: Fold and Seal Gently fold the corners of each pastry rectangle toward the center, pinching the edges together to seal the filling inside. For a beautiful golden finish, brush the tops with an egg wash or milk. This step not only enhances the appearance of your Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish but also adds a lovely sheen. Step 6: Bake Carefully place your assembled pastries onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to puff up. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the danishes are golden brown and slightly puffed. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking, aiming for that gorgeous crispy exterior. Step 7: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes. This cooling step allows the filling to set slightly, ensuring a delightful eating experience. Serve warm for optimal flavor and enjoyment. How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish Room Temperature: Store the danishes in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Fridge: If you prefer longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will keep them fresh but might slightly affect the pastry’s crispness. Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the unbaked Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container and store for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat the danishes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, keeping them crispy on the outside. What to Serve with Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish? Imagine transforming breakfast into a heartfelt gathering by pairing your danish with delightful selections that enchant the senses. Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of coffee beautifully balances the sweetness of the danish, enhancing the overall experience. Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea offers a light, fragrant contrast to the indulgent pastry, perfect for a cozy morning. Mixed Fresh Fruit: A colorful assortment of sliced fruits adds a refreshing crunch that lifts the flavors and presents a beautiful contrast. Lightly Whipped Cream: A dollop of creamy sweetness enhances the chocolatey richness while providing a luscious texture that feels special. Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent touch, serve a slice of warm danish with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a heavenly dessert experience. Chocolate Drizzle: A light chocolate drizzle on top gives an extra layer of indulgence; it makes every bite even more tempting. Mimosa: Combine with a sparkling mimosa for a festive touch, perfect for brunch celebrations that feel truly indulgent. Cheese Platter: Pair with a variety of cheeses for a sweet-savory combo that creates a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. Sharing delightful combinations alongside your Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish will surely elevate your breakfast or brunch to joyous new heights! Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish Variations Feel free to play with flavors and ingredients to make this Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish uniquely yours! Fruit-Jam Swirl: Add a dollop of your favorite fruit preserves, like raspberry or apricot, before sealing. The fruity burst will complement the rich chocolate beautifully. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped nuts, like pecans or hazelnuts, inside the filling for added texture and a delicious crunch. It brings an irresistible layer of flavor! Spiced Twist: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for a warm, spicy note that dances on your palate. A simple change that elevates every bite! Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute cream cheese with a cashew-based cream for a vegan-friendly option. Combine with dark chocolate for a delectable dairy-free treat. Caramel Drizzle: After baking, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the danishes to indulge in an extra layer of sweetness and richness that’s hard to resist. Lemon Zest Addition: Fold in some lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture for a refreshing contrast to the chocolate. The citrus notes will brighten the flavors! Chocolate Chip Infusion: Throw in some mini chocolate chips into your filling for extra chocolatey goodness. This guarantees that every bite is packed with decadent flavor! Savory Spin: Swap the chocolate for goat cheese and herbs to create a savory version for brunch. Pair with a mixed green salad for a wonderful appetizer! And if you want to explore other delightful treats, why not check out this incredible Bake Chocolate Cheesecake or this creamy 3-Ingredient Cheesecake? Each option opens up new avenues for flavor exploration! Make Ahead Options These Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the softened cream cheese, sugar, and melted chocolate, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the puff pastry, cut and fill the rectangles ahead of time, sealing them tightly, and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. On baking day, just preheat your oven and pop them in for 25 minutes, and you’ll have warm, freshly baked pastries that taste just as delicious as if made from scratch at that moment. Enjoy the convenience and flavor of these delightful treats during your busy mornings! Expert Tips for the Best Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish • Seal Carefully: Ensure each pastry is tightly sealed to prevent the creamy filling from leaking during baking. • Watch the Timer: Keep an eye on the danishes; over-baking can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a golden-brown finish. • Serve Warm: Enjoy these Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes fresh out of the oven for the best flavor and texture experience. • Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to add flavored cream cheese or fruit preserves to customize your danishes. It enhances the delightful experience! • Prep Ahead: Make the cream cheese filling a day in advance and keep it in the fridge for a quicker assembly on busy mornings. Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right puff pastry? Absolutely! When selecting puff pastry, look for a high-quality, all-butter version for the best flavor and flakiness. Check the packaging for any signs of freezer burn or damage. If you’re short on time, store-bought puff pastry from the freezer aisle is a fantastic choice. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for optimal results! What’s the best way to store leftover danishes? You can store Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also last in the fridge for up to 5 days if you prefer. Just keep in mind that refrigeration may soften the pastry a bit. To revive their crispiness, pop them in the oven for a few minutes before serving! Can I freeze Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes? Yes, you can! To freeze, assemble the unbaked danishes and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, then transfer them into an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. What should I do if my danishes are leaking filling while baking? The more the merrier when it comes to sealing! If your danishes are leaking, it may be due to overfilling or insufficient sealing. Next time, use a smaller spoonful of filling and pinch the edges more firmly to ensure they are tightly sealed. Additionally, you can try chilling the assembled danishes for 15 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape. Are there dietary considerations for making this recipe? Definitely! If you’re considering dietary restrictions, it’s good to know that this recipe contains dairy and gluten. For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free puff pastry options available in stores. For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or even a blend of blended silken tofu and dairy-free yogurt. Just make sure to check labels for any allergens! How can I customize my danish filling? Very easily! I often enjoy adding a fruity twist by mixing in fruit preserves like raspberry or strawberry along with the cream cheese filling. You can also experiment with flavored cream cheese, such as vanilla or orange zest, to bring a unique flavor profile to your Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish. Feel free to let your creativity shine! Irresistible Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish for Breakfast Bliss This Chocolate Cream Cheese Danish provides a delightful breakfast experience with its rich blend of flavors and easy preparation. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 8 danishesCourse: DessertsCuisine: BakedCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 package Puff Pastry Use store-bought or homemade1 large Egg for egg wash; substitute with milk if desiredFor the Filling8 ounces Cream Cheese Softened; mascarpone can be used for a different flavor profile1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Consider a sugar alternative for lower sweetness1/2 cup Chocolate Dark or Semi-Sweet; milk chocolate can be a sweeter option Equipment Ovenbaking sheetparchment papermixing bowlHandheld Mixer Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Chocolate Cream Cheese DanishPreheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), gathering ingredients and equipment.In a medium bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted chocolate, blending until smooth.Roll out thawed puff pastry to a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick, and slice into rectangles of 4x6 inches.Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry rectangle.Fold the corners of each pastry toward the center and pinch edges to seal, brushing the top with egg wash or milk.Place pastries on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.Let cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1danishCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure pastries are tightly sealed to prevent leaking. For best flavor, serve warm straight from the oven and consider experimenting with different fillings like fruit preserves. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
