Heavenly Cheese Danish Recipe
Embark on a delightful culinary journey with our exquisite Cheese Danish recipe. This classic pastry is a harmonious blend of buttery, flaky layers encasing a creamy, sweet cheese filling—with hints of vanilla and lemon zest that elevate its flavors to celestial heights. Ideal for breakfast indulgence or as a sophisticated tea-time treat, Cheese Danish is both timeless and universally loved. Let’s dive into the art of pastry craft to bake your own deliciously rich Cheese Danish that might just rival a patisserie!
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Mixing Bowls
- Rolling Pin
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Electric Mixer
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Pastry Brush
- Sharp Knife or Dough Cutter
- Microplane
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Ingredients
- 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 15g (1 tbsp) granulated sugar
- 5g (1 tsp) salt
- 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 120ml (1/2 cup) cold whole milk
- 100g (1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 50g (1/4 cup) ricotta cheese
- 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 5ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Incorporate the diced butter into the dry ingredients using your fingers until it achieves a crumbly texture. Gradually add the cold milk, mixing until the dough begins to form. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the cream cheese and ricotta until smooth. Add the sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing until fully combined. Set the filling aside.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a thin rectangular sheet about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick. Trim the edges to even out the rectangle.
Step 4: Cut and Fill
Cut the rolled dough into approximately 12×12 cm (5×5 inch) squares. In the center of each square, spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling. Bring the opposite corners of each square towards the center, pressing gently to seal.
Step 5: Proof and Preheat
Transfer the pastries onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a clean towel and let them rise for about 30 minutes as you preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 6: Apply the Egg Wash and Bake
Brush each Danish with the beaten egg wash to encourage a golden crust. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, until the pastries are golden and the filling is set.
Step 7: Serve
Cool the Cheese Danish on a wire rack before serving. Savor the combination of flaky pastry and velvety cheese filling—a comforting taste sensation.
Conclusion
You’ve now mastered the art of crafting exquisite Cheese Danish pastries. This culinary endeavor is as rewarding as it is delicious. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavors, your homemade Cheese Danish will impress and delight all who taste it.
With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and harmonious flavors, this delightful pastry is sure to impress anyone fortunate enough to taste it. Discover the joy of sharing these homemade wonders with friends and family or revel in a serene moment with your favorite blend of tea or coffee. Baking is, indeed, a labor of love and creative exploration—enjoy every delectable moment!
