Easy Pumpkin Danish with Cream Cheese

Easy Pumpkin Danish with Cream Cheese is a delicious fall pastry that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. The flaky puff pastry is filled with a sweet and creamy pumpkin mixture, made with pumpkin puree and cream cheese, and spiced with warm pumpkin spice. It’s the perfect balance of richness and warmth, making these danishes a wonderful choice for a cozy autumn morning or afternoon snack.

INGREDIENTS

• Puff pastry: 1 package, thawed
• Pumpkin puree: ½ cup
• Granulated sugar: ¼ cup
• Pumpkin spice: 1 teaspoon
• Cream cheese: 4 oz, softened
• Powdered sugar: ¼ cup
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
• Egg: 1 large, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar: for dusting

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2:

In a bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and pumpkin spice until smooth.

Step 3:

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy.

Step 4:

Roll out the thawed puff pastry and cut it into squares.

Step 5:

Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square, followed by a spoonful of the pumpkin mixture.

Step 6:

Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to create a neat shape.

Step 7:

Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg wash.

Step 8:

Bake the pastries for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 9:

Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
• These danishes freeze well. Simply reheat them in the oven to enjoy later.

Helpful Notes

• Make sure to fully thaw the puff pastry before rolling it out to prevent cracking.
• For a spicier flavor, add an extra pinch of pumpkin spice to the filling.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef's Tip: Use a fork to crimp the edges of the puff pastry for a decorative finish.

FAQs

Can I make these danishes ahead of time?

Yes, these danishes freeze beautifully. Simply reheat them in the oven for a quick treat.

What other fillings can I use?

You can use apple or pear fillings for a different flavor profile, or even add a dollop of jam for a fruity twist.

How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?

Make sure your filling isn't too wet, and fully cool the danishes before storing them to prevent condensation.

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Conclusion

Easy Pumpkin Danish with Cream Cheese is a simple yet indulgent pastry perfect for the fall season. Made with store-bought puff pastry, these danishes are filled with a creamy pumpkin and cream cheese mixture, spiced with pumpkin spice for that quintessential autumn flavor. They bake to golden perfection in just 15-18 minutes, making them an ideal breakfast or dessert. For extra indulgence, serve them warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a dusting of powdered sugar. These danishes also freeze beautifully, so you can make a batch ahead of time and simply reheat them for a quick and delicious treat. Whether you're serving them for a holiday brunch or just enjoying them with your morning coffee, these Pumpkin Danishes are sure to be a hit!