Recipe Description:

Indulge in these delightful Chocolate Cream Cheese Danishes, featuring a creamy, sweet filling nestled in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these pastries are sure to impress!

Full Ingredients:

– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
– Optional: additional powdered sugar for dusting

Full Instructions:

1. **Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling**
– In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese.
– Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy (1-2 minutes).
– Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until well combined and fluffy.
– Set the cream cheese filling aside.

2. **Preparing the Puff Pastry**
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– On a lightly floured surface, unfold the thawed puff pastry into two sheets.
– Roll out each sheet slightly to smooth out creases (about 1/8 inch thickness).
– Cut each sheet into 4 equal squares (total of 8 squares).
– Make a border about 1/2 inch from the edge of each square without cutting through.
– Place the squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
– Spoon a generous amount of cream cheese filling into the center of each square.
– Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the filling.
– Prepare the egg wash by whisking together the beaten egg and milk.
– Brush the egg wash around the edges of each pastry square.

3. **Baking the Danish**
– Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
– Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
– Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. **Assembling and Serving**
– Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.
– Serve warm or at room temperature.
– Optionally drizzle melted chocolate over the top or serve with fresh berries.

Notes:

– Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
– Keep an eye on the pastries while baking, as oven temperatures may vary.
– These Danishes can be stored in an airtight container for a few days, but are best enjoyed fresh.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes

Yield:

8 servings