Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCuba Bakery & CaféCheese Danish (pastelitos) Recipe

Cheese Danish (pastelitos) Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves12

A flaky pastry filled with sweet cheese.

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Ingredients

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Pastry and Filling

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Make the Pastry Dough

    In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in the unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cold water as needed to form a dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Cheese Filling

    In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk until smooth and creamy.

  3. 3

    Roll out the Dough

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into squares or rectangles.

  4. 4

    Assemble the Danish

    Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each square. Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to create a pocket. Pinch edges to seal.

  5. 5

    Egg Wash

    Beat the egg with the milk and brush the mixture over each pastry.

  6. 6

    Bake

    Arrange the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

  7. 7

    Finish with Icing

    Let cool slightly, then mix powdered sugar with a little milk to create a glaze and drizzle over the warm pastries.

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