Caramel Apple Cheese Danish Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Apple Filling:

  • 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Danish:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
  • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

For the Topping:

  • ¼ cup caramel sauce
  • Powdered sugar (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

  1. Peel, core, and dice two medium apples into small cubes.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
  3. Add the diced apples, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
  4. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes until the apples soften and become slightly caramelized.
  5. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

  1. In a medium bowl, add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese.
  2. Mix in 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  3. Stir until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out 1 sheet of thawed puff pastry.
  3. Cut the puff pastry into 6 equal rectangles.
  4. Lightly score a border around each rectangle using a knife (do not cut all the way through).

Step 4: Assemble the Danish

  1. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry rectangle.
  2. Add a spoonful of the cooked apple mixture on top of the cream cheese.
  3. Carefully transfer the pastries to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake

  1. In a small bowl, beat 1 egg.
  2. Use a brush to lightly coat the edges of each pastry with the egg wash.
  3. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed.

Step 6: Add Caramel and Serve

  1. Remove the danishes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
  2. Drizzle ¼ cup of caramel sauce over the top of each Danish.
  3. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy!