If you’re looking for a show-stopping breakfast treat or an irresistible dessert that brings together pillowy pastry, creamy filling, and juicy peaches, this recipe is for you! The Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish marries the flavors of tangy cream cheese and sweet peaches, all tucked inside a golden, flaky braid. Whether you’re impressing guests at brunch or sneaking a slice with your afternoon coffee, this danish is as beautiful as it is delicious. You won’t believe how simple it is to recreate this bakery classic at home!

Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making a Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, but each one plays a unique role in building flavor and achieving that perfect pastry-shop look. Here’s why each component is essential for success.

Cream cheese: Use full-fat, room-temperature cream cheese for the smoothest, creamiest filling.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the cream cheese without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Egg yolk: Incorporating an egg yolk adds richness and helps set the filling beautifully as it bakes.
Pure vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla brings depth and warmth to the filling.
Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and adds dimension.
Lemon juice: A hint of acidity brightens everything up and highlights the fruit.
Canned sliced peaches: These convenient peaches (raspberry-flavored, if you want a twist) lend juicy sweetness and pop of color to every slice.
Puff pastry sheet: Store-bought frozen puff pastry makes it simple to achieve bakery-level flakiness with minimal effort—just remember to thaw it first!
Egg wash: Mixing an egg with water ensures an irresistibly golden and shiny crust.
Coarse sugar: Sprinkled on before baking for sparkle and subtle crunch.
Powdered sugar glaze: A quick glaze of powdered sugar and milk finishes your Danish with a delicate sweetness and a pretty sheen.

How to Make Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 400°F. You’ll want your oven fully heated and ready to go to ensure that flaky, puffed-up pastry crust the Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish is famous for.

Step 2: Whip the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sugar. Beat on low speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Next, add the egg yolk, pure vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and lemon juice, then mix until everything is well blended and silky. Set this luscious filling aside; you’re going to want to sneak a taste!

Step 3: Prepare the Peach Filling

Drain your canned peaches thoroughly to avoid excess moisture—a soggy Danish is never fun. You can use raspberry-flavored peaches for a tangy twist or stick with classic peaches for a more familiar flavor. Pat them gently with a paper towel so the pastry stays crisp.

Step 4: Roll and Cut the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, gently unfold and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a rectangle, about 10×12 inches. Move the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Then, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the two long edges into 1-inch wide strips, leaving the middle third uncut to hold the fillings. This setup is key for creating that gorgeous braid.

Step 5: Assemble the Filling

Spread the cream cheese filling evenly down the center third of the pastry, stopping just short of the edges. Layer the drained peach slices right on top, arranging them decoratively for extra flair. This combo is what gives our Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish its dreamy, fruit-filled interior!

Step 6: Braid, Brush, and Sprinkle

Now the fun part—braiding! Fold the pastry strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a lovely woven pattern. Tuck in the ends to seal. Brush the entire braid with your egg wash for that bakery-style shine, and sprinkle generously with coarse sugar. This step gives you ultimate bling and the best golden, crunchy finish.

Step 7: Bake and Glaze

Slide the Danish into your preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until puffed and deeply golden. While it cools, mix up a quick glaze of powdered sugar and milk. Once the braid is warm (but not piping hot), drizzle the glaze back and forth over the top for that signature pastry-shop look and a touch of extra sweetness.

How to Serve Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish

Garnishes

A final flourish goes a long way! Try a dusting of extra powdered sugar, a shower of slivered almonds for crunch, or even some fresh peach slices and mint for vibrant color when serving the Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish on a platter.

Side Dishes

Serve your Danish with a tangy fruit salad, a bowl of vanilla yogurt, or a simple cup of coffee or tea. The creamy and fruity flavors pair beautifully with light or slightly tart sides, making your brunch table feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your braid into thick slices for easy sharing, or try serving mini individual braids for personal desserts. For parties, you can even drizzle on multiple glazes (vanilla, lemon, or raspberry) in thin stripes for a playful twist on the classic Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any remaining Danish cool completely, then store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pastry will remain delicious, though it’s best enjoyed slightly warmed for optimal flakiness and flavor.

Freezing

The Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish freezes surprisingly well! Wrap individual portions or the whole braid tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to one month; just thaw overnight in the fridge before you plan to enjoy.

Reheating

For that just-baked taste, reheat slices in a 300°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving works too, though the pastry will lose a bit of crispness. If you opt for the oven, your kitchen will smell amazing all over again!

FAQs

Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?

Yes! When in season, ripe fresh peaches are a fabulous choice. Just peel, slice, and pat them dry to prevent the pastry from getting soggy.

What if I don’t have raspberry-flavored peaches?

Regular canned peaches work perfectly. If you want a hint of berry flavor, you can toss the peaches with a teaspoon of raspberry jam before layering them over the cream cheese.

Can the Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish be made in advance?

Absolutely. You can assemble the braid (without baking) and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning for a warm and inviting treat, or bake fully and reheat before serving.

Are there any nut-free glaze alternatives?

Definitely—simply stick with the classic powdered sugar and milk glaze or flavor it with a little lemon for a nut-free twist. Garnish with sprinkles or a dusting of cinnamon if you want extra flair.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

You can, though the filling will be slightly less rich and a bit softer. For best results and authentic flavor, full-fat cream cheese is ideal in the Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite as impressive—or comforting—as a homemade Peach Cream Cheese Braided Danish fresh from your oven. This recipe brings bakery-quality pastry right to your kitchen, no special skills needed. Give this delicious braid a try and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to something truly special!