Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish

This Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish is the perfect balance of buttery, flaky puff pastry, rich cream cheese filling, and juicy peach slices. Whether you’re looking for an easy brunch recipe or a decadent dessert, this braided danish is an ideal choice. Made with store-bought puff pastry, this simple recipe combines creamy cream cheese, fresh fruit, and a sweet glaze for a treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.

This Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish is the perfect combination of flaky puff pastry, creamy filling, and juicy peaches. With a smooth cream cheese center, fresh peach slices, and a delightful glaze drizzle, this danish is a great breakfast, dessert, or treat for any occasion. Follow this easy step-by-step recipe to create a beautifully braided danish that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients:

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 6 oz cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice

For the Peach Filling:

• 1 15 oz can Del Monte Garden Quality® sliced peaches (or raspberry flavored), drained

For the Pastry:

• 1 sheet store-bought frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package instructions

Egg Wash:

• 1 large egg mixed with 1 Tbsp water

Toppings:

• Coarse sugar (raw sugar works best)

Glaze:

• 1/3 cup powdered sugar mixed with 1/2 Tbsp milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Make the cream cheese filling:
   • In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar on low speed until smooth.
   • Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, salt, and lemon juice. Continue mixing until fully blended. Set aside.
3. Prepare the peach filling:
   • Drain and slice the Del Monte peaches into 1/4″ thick slices.
4. Assemble the danish:
   • Dust a sheet of parchment paper with flour. Place the thawed puff pastry on the parchment and slightly roll it out to flatten.
   • Spread the cream cheese mixture lengthwise in the middle third of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border at the top and bottom.
   • Arrange the peach slices evenly on top of the cream cheese filling.
5. Cut and braid the pastry:
   • Cut off the top corners of the pastry. Then, make diagonal cuts 1-inch wide along both sides of the pastry, leaving at least 1/2-inch from the filling.
   • Braid the pastry by folding the strips in an alternating pattern from each side.
6. Apply the egg wash:
   • Brush the braided pastry with the egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
7. Bake:
   • Bake at 400°F for 25-28 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
8. Make the glaze:
   • Once the danish has cooled to room temperature, mix the powdered sugar with milk and drizzle the glaze over the pastry.
9. Serve and enjoy!

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Tips:

• Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add more sugar to the cream cheese mixture.
• Let the danish cool completely before drizzling the glaze to prevent it from melting too quickly.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Fruit Options: Use other fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or apples instead of peaches for a different flavor.
• Glaze: You can substitute the powdered sugar glaze with a simple vanilla icing for an alternative topping.
• Pastry: If puff pastry is unavailable, you can use crescent dough for a similar texture.

FAQs:

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the danish and store it in the fridge overnight. Just bake it the next day before serving.

Can I freeze the peach danish?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pastry after assembly. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge and follow the baking instructions.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this peach cream cheese braided danish as a delightful breakfast treat with coffee or tea.
• It’s also a perfect dessert for family gatherings, brunches, or holiday celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This peach cream cheese braided danish is a showstopper with its flaky pastry, creamy filling, and sweet peach layers. It’s easy to make and sure to impress anyone who tastes it! Plus, the glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness to every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a simple breakfast, this danish is guaranteed to be a hit.