Save A tender, buttery pastry filled with creamy coffee-flavored cheese and topped with a sweet, crunchy crumb—perfect for breakfast or a special treat.
I first made this danish recipe for a brunch gathering with friends. The aroma of freshly baked pastry and coffee filled the house, and everyone loved the creamy center and sweet crumb topping.
Ingredients
- Dough: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast, 1/2 cup (120 ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C), 1 large egg (room temperature), 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter (softened)
- Coffee Cream Cheese Filling: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese (softened), 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar, 1 egg yolk, 2 tbsp strong brewed coffee (cooled), 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Crumb Topping: 1/3 cup (40 g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (50 g) light brown sugar, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, 3 tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- Glaze (optional): 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar, 1–2 tbsp milk or coffee
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the Filling:
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, coffee, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Prepare Crumb Topping:
- Mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Add cold butter and rub between fingers until crumbs form.
- Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Pastries:
- Punch down risen dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball, then flatten to 4-inch (10 cm) rounds. Place on prepared baking sheet.
- Add Filling:
- Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each round. Spoon 2 tablespoons of coffee cream cheese filling into each center.
- Add Crumb:
- Sprinkle crumb topping over the filling and exposed dough.
- Bake:
- Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool on the pan for 10 minutes.
- Glaze (Optional):
- Whisk powdered sugar with milk or coffee until smooth; drizzle over cooled danishes. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save My family loves these danishes on slow weekend mornings. They're a special treat that brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, baking sheet, parchment paper, measuring cups and spoons, small saucepan (for glaze)
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), milk, egg. May contain traces of nuts if processed in facilities with nuts. Double-check all packaged ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per danish)
Calories: 340, Total Fat: 17 g, Carbohydrates: 40 g, Protein: 7 g
Save Enjoy your danish warm with a cup of coffee for a delicious start to your day. They stay tender for up to two days if stored airtight.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use instant coffee for the filling?
Yes, dissolve instant coffee in a small amount of water and cool before adding to the cream cheese mixture.
- → Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the dough and refrigerate overnight, bringing it to room temperature before shaping.
- → How do I achieve a flaky, tender dough?
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, and allow it to rise fully for the best texture.
- → Can I add chocolate chips for extra flavor?
Yes, fold mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling for a mocha-inspired treat.
- → Is there a way to intensify the coffee flavor?
Use brewed espresso instead of regular coffee in both the filling and the glaze for a bolder taste.
- → What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Mascarpone cheese is a suitable substitute, though it will be slightly sweeter and softer.