Introduction to Peach and Cream Danish Pie
Let’s face it—finding time to whip up a delightful dessert like Peach and Cream Danish Pie can feel like a fantasy on a busy day. But that delightful flakiness and creamy peach filling is just a puff pastry away! This recipe is perfect for those moments when you want something that looks elegant yet doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re surprising your family or impressing friends at brunch, this pie is a slice of joy that’s easy to make. Trust me, you’ll be savoring every last bite, and they won’t believe it’s homemade!
Why You’ll Love This Peach and Cream Danish Pie
This Peach and Cream Danish Pie is a chef’s kiss on your busy schedule! It’s not only quick to make, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish, but it also delivers on flavor. The harmony of sweet peaches and creamy cheese wrapped in flaky pastry is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for dessert, brunch, or even a delightful afternoon snack. You’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!
Ingredients for Peach and Cream Danish Pie
This delightful Peach and Cream Danish Pie is made with just a handful of ingredients, and they’re all easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Puff pastry: This flaky, buttery base elevates the pie. Make sure it’s fully thawed for the best texture.
- Peach filling: You can use store-bought or homemade peach filling. It adds that sweet, fruity flavor we all adore.
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese is key for that rich and creamy filling. It pairs beautifully with peaches.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch enhances the sweet notes of the cream cheese and peaches, marrying the flavors without overpowering.
- Milk (optional): A little brush of milk on the tops helps them puff up nicely and gives a lovely golden sheen.
- Icing sugar (optional): A light dusting before serving adds an elegant touch, perfect for impressing your guests!
Keep in mind that the exact quantities for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. With every ingredient working together, you’re in for a treat that will become a favorite in no time!
How to Make Peach and Cream Danish Pie
Let’s get down to the fun part—creating this scrumptious Peach and Cream Danish Pie! Follow these simple steps, and I promise it will be worth your while. Grab your ingredients, and let’s roll!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This allows the Danish to rise beautifully as it bakes. A hot oven means flaky pastry, and who doesn’t love that?
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Now, roll out the thawed puff pastry on a clean surface to create a 10×10 inch square. From this square, cut it into four equal squares. Keep these pieces uniform to help them bake evenly. You’ll be amazed by how they transform in the oven!
Step 3: Fill the Pastry
Take each pastry square and place 2 tablespoons of softened cream cheese in the center. Then, add 2 tablespoons of that luscious peach filling right on top. You want just the right balance of creaminess and sweetness! It’s like a little surprise wrapped in pastry.
Step 4: Shape the Danishes
Now comes the creative part! Fold two opposite corners of the pastry over the filling, pressing lightly to seal. This creates an adorable little pocket that holds all that goodness. Don’t worry if they look a bit rustic; that’s part of their charm!
Step 5: Chill the Danishes
To help everything stay in place as they cook, chill the assembled Danishes in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This step ensures they puff up perfectly, staying flaky and delicious.
Step 6: Brush and Prepare for Baking
Before popping them in the oven, you can brush the tops with a splash of milk if you want a shiny finish. This is optional but does help achieve that lovely golden color. Then, sprinkle each piece with about ¼ teaspoon of granulated sugar for an extra touch of sweetness!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
It’s time to bake! Place the Danishes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake until they are puffed and golden brown—around 15 minutes. The smell will be divine, and you might find it hard to wait!
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Once they’ve cooled slightly, dust your Peach and Cream Danish Pie with icing sugar for that dreamy presentation. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy each flaky, creamy bite. Your taste buds will thank you!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your puff pastry is completely thawed for easy handling.
- For cream cheese that spreads smoothly, leave it out to soften at room temperature.
- Experiment with homemade peach filling for a fresh twist!
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the peach filling.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A standard metal baking sheet works well, but you can use a glass or ceramic dish if needed.
- Parchment paper: Essential for easy cleanup. Aluminum foil can be a substitute, but it might stick a bit.
- Rolling pin: A classic option; if you don’t have one, a sturdy wine bottle will do!
- Mixing bowl: Any bowl will work for blending your filling; even a large plate can suffice in a pinch.
Variations
- Fruit Swap: Try swapping peaches for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or cherries for a new flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and a suitable puff pastry to make this dessert vegan-friendly.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to the peach filling for an added crunch and flavor depth.
- Flavor Infusion: Incorporate a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract into the cream cheese mixture for a subtle aromatic touch.
- Savory Surprise: Experiment with savory fillings like spinach and feta for a delicious appetizer version of the Danish pie.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Peach and Cream Danish Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- A side of fresh mint leaves adds a refreshing touch.
- For beverages, consider serving with iced tea or a light white wine to complement the sweetness.
- Presentation tip: Serve on a beautiful platter with a sprinkling of fresh peaches or edible flowers around the pie for a stunning visual.
FAQs about Peach and Cream Danish Pie
Can I use fresh peaches instead of peach filling?
Absolutely! Fresh peaches can add a burst of flavor. Just slice them thin and combine with a little sugar to create a delicious filling. Be sure to adjust the sweetness to your liking!
How do I store leftover Danish pie?
Store your Peach and Cream Danish Pie in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay delicious for up to three days. Just warm it slightly in the oven before serving to bring back that fresh, flaky texture!
Can I freeze the assembled Danishes before baking?
Yes! You can prep the Danishes and freeze them before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the freezer; just add a couple of minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives, mascarpone or cottage cheese can work great. For a dairy-free option, try using a creamy vegan cheese that spreads well for a similar texture.
How can I make my Danish pie look more appealing?
A dusting of icing sugar right before serving gives a beautiful, finishing touch. You can also garnish with fresh peach slices or mint leaves for an elegant presentation that wows your guests!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Peach and Cream Danish Pie is more than just following a recipe; it’s about making memories in the kitchen. The joy of slicing into that flaky crust, revealing the creamy peach goodness inside, warms my heart every time. It’s a delightful treat that even the busiest of moms can whip up in no time. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoy it with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon, every bite feels like a little celebration of sweetness. So why not treat yourself? You deserve it!
Print
Peach and Cream Danish Pie
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Peach and Cream Danish Pie is a delightful dessert featuring a flaky puff pastry filled with creamy cheese and sweet peach filling.
Ingredients
- 1 roll puff pastry, thawed
- 10 tablespoons peach filling
- 8 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon milk (optional)
- Icing sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Roll out puff pastry to a 10×10 inch square and cut into 4 equal squares.
- Spread 2 tablespoons cream cheese in the center of each square, then top with 2 tablespoons peach filling.
- Fold two opposite corners over the center and press lightly to seal.
- Chill assembled danishes in the freezer for 15 minutes.
- Brush tops with milk (optional) and sprinkle each with ¼ teaspoon granulated sugar.
- Bake until puffed and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly and dust with icing sugar before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is well-thawed for better handling.
- Feel free to use homemade or store-bought peach filling.
- This dessert can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg