There’s something utterly magical about biting into a freshly baked Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze: the shattering flake of pastry, the ultra-creamy center, tart jewel-like cranberries, and a buttery-sweet glaze all dancing together in one delightful bite. This recipe balances simple elegance with the kind of flavor fireworks you’d expect from a bakery—yet it’s so easy you’ll want to make it on repeat for weekend brunches, special occasions, or just because. Prepare yourself: after one taste, these danishes may become your new baking obsession.

Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each element in these danishes has a job: some bring flaky lift, others offer creamy coziness, a punch of tartness, or that irresistible sweet finish. Don’t worry—the list is short and sweet, but each item is key to getting the irresistible taste and bakery-worthy look of Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze.

Fresh Cranberries: Bright, tart, and perfect for sugaring—they provide color and zing.
Water: Helps dissolve the sugar for a quick, sticky syrup to coat the cranberries.
Granulated Sugar: Used twice—first for syrup, then for rolling. This is what turns cranberries into sparkling edible jewels.
Puff Pastry or Refrigerated Crescent Dough: Store-bought dough keeps things effortless but results in amazing flakiness and rise.
Cream Cheese: Softened and sweetened, this brings lush creaminess to the center of each danish.
Vanilla Extract: The warm, floral note that brightens everything up and makes the filling irresistible.
Egg: Whisked with milk, it creates that glossy golden finish you see on bakery danishes.
Milk: Enriches both the egg wash and the butter glaze for an ultra-silky finish.
Fruit Jam (Cranberry, Raspberry, or Apricot): Adds a pop of tangy-sweet fruitiness and gorgeous color.
Powdered Sugar: Blends into a smooth, creamy glaze to drizzle over each pastry.
Unsalted Butter: Melts into the glaze, giving it rich flavor and a gorgeous sheen.

How to Make Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze

Step 1: Make the Sugared Cranberries

Start by creating the sparkling cranberries that will steal the show. Gently heat water and half the sugar until the grains dissolve, forming a syrup. Toss in your fresh cranberries and give them a good swirl; you want each berry shining and sticky. Once coated, transfer them to a wire rack so they get a bit tacky but not wet—patience is key here! After about an hour, roll them in the remaining sugar so they’re dusted and dazzling. These become your edible rubies.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a small bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. You’re looking for a creamy, easily spreadable consistency—think frosting, not cement! This mixture will add velvety richness and a hint of sweetness to every pastry bite, balancing the tartness of the cranberries perfectly.

Step 3: Shape the Danish Pastries

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment. Unroll your puff pastry or crescent dough and slice it into 4–6 squares. Want that signature bakery look? Fold in the corners to create a nest for the filling, or twist strips into spirals and coil them—either way, you’ll end up with layers of golden flake and plenty of room for delicious toppings.

Step 4: Fill and Assemble

Spoon a generous dollop of your cream cheese mixture into the center of each pastry base. Top with a small spoonful of fruit jam—cranberry, raspberry, or apricot. This is where you let your inner artist out: play with color and create a marbled swirl if you’re feeling fancy.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash and Bake

Whisk together the egg and milk, then brush the mixture around the exposed pastry edges. This helps the Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze get that irresistible golden glow. Bake for 15–18 minutes until the pastries are puffed and beautifully browned, then let them cool on a wire rack so the undersides stay crisp.

Step 6: Prepare the Butter Glaze

While your danishes cool, whisk powdered sugar with melted butter, a splash of milk, and a kiss of vanilla extract. You’re after a fluid, pourable consistency—easily drizzled but not watery. This glaze will set up with a lovely shine and sumptuous finish atop your pastries.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Now comes the crowning moment: drizzle the butter glaze generously over each pastry, then nestle a few sugared cranberries on top. Not only do they look beautiful, but the berries add a festive, tart counterpoint to the decadent filling. Serve at room temperature or ever-so-slightly warm, and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze

Garnishes

The sugared cranberries aren’t just for decoration—they’re the dazzling highlight of each bite! For a little extra sparkle, sprinkle over some leftover granulated sugar just before serving, or add a scatter of finely grated orange zest for a fragrant, citrusy lift. Mint leaves also look lovely for a brunch spread, adding a refreshing color contrast to the deep red cranberries.

Side Dishes

A batch of Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze is right at home on any breakfast or dessert table. Serve alongside seasonal fruit salad, a piping hot cup of coffee, or a dish of Greek yogurt for balance. If you love super-indulgent brunches, pair with a platter of smoked salmon or scrambled eggs for a luxurious, savory counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive breakfast, arrange the danishes on a cake stand and drizzle the butter glaze in zig-zags right at the table. Individual danishes can be wrapped in wax paper and tied with twine for holiday gifting. And don’t hesitate to stack them, bakery-style, on a platter with scattered sugared cranberries and edible flowers for that wow factor at your next brunch or tea party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Though best the day they’re made, Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The pastry may soften, but a quick trip to the oven or toaster will restore much of that crispy texture. Keep the sugared cranberries in a separate, uncovered bowl at room temperature so they don’t weep or become sticky.

Freezing

For longer keeping, freeze the baked (but unglazed) danishes. Let them cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil and freeze for up to one month. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and refresh in a warm oven. Glaze and top with sugared cranberries after reheating for the freshest taste and texture.

Reheating

If your danishes have softened in the fridge, pop them into a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–8 minutes. This perks up the pastry, bringing back its signature flake. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it will soften the dough rather than crisp it. Always add the butter glaze and cranberries after reheating to preserve the sugary crunch and bright flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Fresh cranberries work best for sugaring because they hold their shape and achieve that glossy, candy-like finish, but you can use frozen if you thaw and dry them thoroughly first. Just know they might be a little softer and more delicate in appearance.

What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?

If you forgot to take your cream cheese out of the fridge, don’t stress! Cut it into cubes, place in a microwave-safe bowl, and zap it in 10-second bursts until just soft enough to blend. Room temperature cream cheese makes for the silkiest filling in Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze.

Can I make the sugared cranberries ahead?

Absolutely! Sugared cranberries can be prepared up to two or even three days in advance. They actually keep best uncovered at room temperature, staying deliciously crisp for when you’re ready to use them as a topping.

Which jam should I use for the filling?

Cranberry, raspberry, or apricot jam all work brilliantly, but feel free to get creative based on your favorite flavors or what you have on hand. The jam adds a lovely sweet-tart balance and enhances the colors—matching the brightness of the sugared cranberries beautifully.

Are these danishes kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy filling, sweet glaze, and playful cranberries are a hit with little taste-testers, especially when you let them help decorate. Just be cautious if your kids are sensitive to tart flavors—raspberry or apricot jam can offer a slightly sweeter taste if needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s a special kind of satisfaction in serving up a platter of Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze, watching those jewel-topped pastries disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!” Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into pastry, you’ll love how simple, beautiful, and delicious these treats are. Give them a try—you might just find they become your go-to recipe for sharing and celebrating.

Cream Cheese Danishes with Sugared Cranberries and Butter Glaze Recipe