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If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a pastry that’s perfectly flaky, luxuriously creamy, and bursting with bright pops of tart cranberries all harmonized by a sweet vanilla butter glaze, then this Cream Cheese Danish with Sugared Cranberries and Vanilla Butter Glaze Recipe is absolutely for you. It’s delightfully simple yet utterly impressive, combining tender puff pastry with a dreamy cream cheese filling, topped off with jewel-like sugared cranberries that sparkle both in taste and appearance. Whether you’re hosting brunch, craving a cozy breakfast, or simply want a sweet treat, this recipe hits all the right notes and never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to nailing the texture and flavor of this Cream Cheese Danish with Sugared Cranberries and Vanilla Butter Glaze Recipe. Each component plays a unique role, from the buttery puff pastry that creates the perfect flaky base, to the smooth cream cheese that adds richness, and the sugared cranberries that bring a festive, tart crunch that brightens every bite.
- Puff pastry sheet: The foundation for flaky, golden layers that hold all the delicious fillings beautifully.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Provides a smooth, tangy richness that balances the sweet toppings perfectly.
- Granulated sugar (2 tbsp + 1/2 cup divided): Sweetens the cream cheese and creates the sparkling coating for the cranberries.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp + 1/2 tsp): Adds warm depth and a comforting aroma in both the filling and glaze.
- Lemon zest (1/4 tsp, optional): Brightens up the cream cheese filling with a subtle citrus twist.
- Egg: Used as an egg wash to give the pastry those perfect golden edges.
- Fresh cranberries (1/2 cup): Tart and vibrant fruits that turn into crunchy sugared gems once coated.
- Water (1/4 cup): Helps dissolve the sugar, creating a simple syrup to coat the cranberries.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, melted): Richens the vanilla butter glaze with its creamy, silky texture.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): The sweet base for the smooth glaze that ties everything together.
- Milk (1–2 tsp): Adjusts glaze consistency for easy drizzling without overpowering sweetness.
How to Make Cream Cheese Danish with Sugared Cranberries and Vanilla Butter Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sugared Cranberries
Start by heating 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan until the sugar has completely dissolved—this creates a simple syrup that will help the cranberries soak up sweetness while maintaining their natural tartness. Once off the heat, stir in the fresh cranberries and let them rest for five minutes to soak. Next, transfer them onto a wire cooling rack so they can dry just enough to roll in the remaining sugar, creating that iconic sparkling, crunchy texture. Allow them to dry completely before assembling your Danishes to avoid any sogginess.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a hint of lemon zest if you’re using it. Mixing these ingredients until completely smooth ensures that each bite of filling is luxuriously creamy and gently sweet, providing the perfect counterbalance to the tart cranberries.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry Base
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gently unfold your thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into six equal rectangles. Then, carefully score a smaller rectangle inside each piece—about half an inch from the edges—taking care not to cut all the way through. This scoring creates beautiful puffed edges that frame the filling perfectly as the Danishes bake.
Step 4: Assemble the Danishes
Spoon roughly one tablespoon of the cream cheese filling into the center of the scored area on each puff pastry rectangle. Then, using your egg wash (one egg beaten with a tablespoon of water), brush the exposed pastry edges to encourage a golden, glossy finish once baked. This detail makes a world of difference in the final look and texture!
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake the Danishes for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they’re puffed up gorgeously and golden brown on all sides. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is simply irresistible. Once out of the oven, transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly, so the pastry retains its delicate crispness and the filling firms up just enough to hold shape.
Step 6: Whisk Together the Vanilla Butter Glaze
While the Danishes cool, mix the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 to 2 teaspoons of milk in a small bowl until smooth and drizzle-worthy. This glaze adds a final layer of luscious sweetness that ties the entire dessert together with its fragrant vanilla notes and smooth richness.
Step 7: Glaze and Top with Sugared Cranberries
Drizzle the vanilla butter glaze over the cooled Danishes in gentle, elegant strokes. Then, crown each pastry with a few of your perfectly sugared cranberries. The contrast between the creamy filling, flaky pastry, tart cranberries, and shiny glaze is nothing short of magical.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Danish with Sugared Cranberries and Vanilla Butter Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cream Cheese Danish with Sugared Cranberries and Vanilla Butter Glaze Recipe even further, consider sprinkling a bit of finely chopped toasted almonds or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top for added crunch and a visual pop. Fresh mint leaves can also add a lovely, refreshing note and a burst of color to the presentation.
Side Dishes
These Danishes pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or a robust chai latte, balancing their richness. For a heartier brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a light mixed green salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette to keep things bright and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, arrange each Danish on individual dessert plates and drizzle extra glaze tableside, allowing each guest to admire the glossy finish before digging in. You can also create a festive platter by placing the Danishes on a wooden board surrounded by scattered sugared cranberries and fresh herbs—this rustic yet elegant display is sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (although they rarely last long!), store the Danishes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. This keeps the puff pastry crisp and the cream cheese filling fresh, though they are always best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
Freezing
To freeze these beauties, assemble the Danishes through Step 4 and freeze them on a parchment-lined baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This method lets you prep ahead without losing any of that delicious texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the Danishes on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 8 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave, which can make the pastry soggy. Once reheated, drizzle a bit of fresh vanilla butter glaze to revive that fresh-baked experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
While fresh cranberries are preferred for their firm texture, you can use frozen cranberries if fresh aren’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using to prevent excess moisture from affecting the pastry.
Is there a substitute for puff pastry?
Puff pastry gives the Danishes their signature flakiness and lift. If you can’t find it, a laminated croissant dough can work as an alternative, though it requires more preparation. Regular pie crust is not recommended because it lacks the delicate layers.
Can I make the cream cheese filling in advance?
Absolutely! The cream cheese filling can be made up to a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before assembling your Danishes to smooth it out.
What’s the best way to store sugared cranberries?
Sugared cranberries are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Beyond that, they may start to lose their crunch and sparkle.
How sweet is the vanilla butter glaze?
The glaze strikes a lovely balance between sweet and buttery, never overpowering the tang of the cream cheese or the tartness of the cranberries. You can adjust the powdered sugar or milk for your preferred sweetness and consistency.
Final Thoughts
You’ll find that this Cream Cheese Danish with Sugared Cranberries and Vanilla Butter Glaze Recipe quickly becomes a treasured favorite in your baking repertoire. Its perfect dance of flavors and textures makes every bite a celebration, whether for a quiet Sunday morning or an elegant gathering. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll look forward to sharing it with friends and family—and maybe even sneaking a few for yourself!
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Print
Cream Cheese Danish with Sugared Cranberries and Vanilla Butter Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6 danishes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightful Cream Cheese Danishes topped with sugared cranberries and drizzled with a luscious vanilla butter glaze. Perfectly flaky puff pastry filled with a smooth cream cheese mixture, these danishes are an elegant treat for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry and Filling
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Sugared Cranberries
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/4 cup water
Vanilla Butter Glaze
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tsp milk (adjust for consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare Sugared Cranberries: Heat 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and stir in fresh cranberries. Let them sit for 5 minutes to absorb the syrup. Transfer cranberries to a wire rack to dry slightly (about 30 minutes), then roll them in the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar until well coated. Allow to dry completely for a crunchy sugar coating.
- Mix Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and lemon zest if using, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into 6 equal rectangles. Using a sharp knife, score a smaller rectangle inside each piece about 1/2 inch from the edge without cutting all the way through, creating a border that will puff up during baking.
- Fill and Egg Wash: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling into the scored center of each puff pastry rectangle. Brush the exposed edges with an egg wash made from 1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water to achieve a golden finish.
- Bake: Place the danishes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up. Remove from the oven and cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Make Vanilla Butter Glaze: Whisk together melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and pourable. Adjust milk quantity to reach your preferred glaze consistency.
- Assemble and Serve: Drizzle the vanilla butter glaze over the cooled danishes. Top each with a few sugared cranberries for a festive and tasty finish. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed before use for easy handling and best puff.
- The lemon zest is optional but adds a bright citrus note to the cream cheese filling.
- Egg wash helps to create a glossy golden crust on the danishes.
- Allow sugared cranberries to dry thoroughly for a crunchy texture and to avoid sogginess on the pastry.
- Adjust glaze milk to achieve desired thickness—thin enough to drizzle but thick enough to hold shape.
- These danishes are best enjoyed the day they are made for optimal flakiness and freshness.
