Breakfast Cheese Danish

Ingredients:

• For the Danish dough:

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

• For the cheese filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a bit of tang)

• For topping:

  • Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

  • Jam or fruit preserves (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the puff pastry:

   • Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.

   • Cut it into squares or rectangles (around 3-4 inches wide).

3. Make the cheese filling:

   • In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using).

   • Mix well until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Danish:

   • Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square.

   • Fold the corners of the puff pastry towards the center to form a little pocket around the filling. You can also leave them open for a more rustic look.

5. Apply the egg wash:

   • Beat the egg and brush it lightly over the exposed pastry edges to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.

6. Bake:

   • Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.