Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish Recipe

Why You’ll Love Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare: Using store-bought puff pastry eliminates the need to make dough from scratch, allowing you to enjoy fresh pastries in just 30 minutes.

• Inspired by a Starbucks favorite: Enjoy the familiar combination of creamy cheesecake-like filling and sweet, spiced fruit preserves.

• Perfectly flaky and buttery: Puff pastry bakes into delicate, golden layers that contrast beautifully with the smooth filling.

• Warm holiday flavors: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves transform ordinary plum jam into a fragrant, festive topping.

• Made with simple ingredients: Everything you need is easy to find at most grocery stores.

• Great for entertaining: These individual pastries are ideal for holiday breakfasts, brunch gatherings, and dessert platters.

• Easy to customize: Experiment with different fruit jams, spices, and toppings to create your own variation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

To make these delicious Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danishes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed): Creates the light, buttery, flaky pastry base. Frozen store-bought puff pastry works perfectly when thawed according to package instructions.

• All-purpose flour (for rolling): Prevents the pastry from sticking to your countertop and rolling pin.

• 4 ounces cream cheese or neufchâtel (softened): Provides a rich, smooth, slightly tangy filling that balances the sweetness of the jam.

• 1 to 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without making it overly sugary. Adjust according to your preference.

• 1/4 cup plum jam: Adds fruity sweetness and the signature sugar plum flavor.

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings a warm, comforting sweetness to the plum topping.

• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty warmth that complements the fruit.

• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves: Gives the jam a distinctive holiday-inspired spice flavor.

For the best results, use good-quality puff pastry made with butter if available. Choose a smooth plum jam that spreads easily, and allow the cream cheese to soften before mixing for a silky filling.

Directions

Making these homemade sugar plum cheese danishes is surprisingly simple. Follow these easy steps for beautifully golden pastries with creamy centers and delicious spiced plum topping.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

While the oven heats, prepare your ingredients and make sure the puff pastry is thawed but still cool. Working with chilled pastry helps preserve its delicate layers and produces a flakier texture during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Lightly dust your countertop and rolling pin with all-purpose flour.

Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the prepared surface. Gently roll it out just enough to extend its dimensions slightly and smooth any folds.

Avoid rolling too thin, as the pastry needs enough thickness to rise properly.

If your puff pastry is already evenly shaped, you can skip the rolling step.

Step 3: Cut and Shape the Pastry

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, divide the puff pastry sheet into 9 equal squares.

Carefully transfer each square into a well of a standard muffin tin.

Gently press the center of each square into the bottom of the muffin well, allowing the corners to extend upward and outward.

This creates a small pastry cup that will hold the cream cheese and plum filling while baking.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with 1 to 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar.

Stir until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and evenly sweetened.

Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly among the 9 pastry squares.

Using the back of a spoon, gently spread the filling across the center of each pastry, leaving the raised corners exposed.

Step 5: Make the Spiced Plum Topping

In a small bowl, combine the plum jam, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves.

Stir thoroughly until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the jam.

Spoon a small dollop of the spiced plum mixture onto the cream cheese filling in each pastry.

You may have a little plum topping remaining, depending on how much you use for each danish.

Avoid overfilling the pastries to prevent the jam from spilling over during baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven.

Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is beautifully golden brown, puffed, and crisp around the edges.

The cream cheese filling should appear set, while the plum topping will become glossy and slightly bubbly.

Keep an eye on the pastries during the final few minutes, as baking times may vary depending on your oven and puff pastry brand.

Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve

Remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the pastries to cool for a few minutes.

Carefully lift each danish from the muffin tin using a small spatula or butter knife.

Serve warm for the best combination of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and sweet spiced plum jam.

These danishes pair wonderfully with freshly brewed coffee, cappuccino, hot chocolate, or your favorite tea.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 9 individual sugar plum cheese danishes, making it ideal for a small family breakfast, holiday brunch, or an afternoon gathering.

Each serving consists of one pastry. You can easily double the recipe if you’re entertaining a larger group, provided you have enough muffin tin space.

Variations

One of the best things about this Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish recipe is how easily you can adapt it to suit different tastes and occasions.

1. Raspberry Cheese Danish

Replace the plum jam with raspberry preserves for a slightly tart and vibrant fruit flavor. The raspberry filling pairs beautifully with the sweet cream cheese.

2. Apricot Cheese Danish

Use apricot jam instead of plum jam for a lighter, tangier variation. Add a small pinch of cinnamon to enhance the natural sweetness of the apricots.

3. Mixed Berry Danish

Combine strawberry, blueberry, and raspberry preserves for a colorful fruit topping. This version is especially delicious during spring and summer.

4. Extra Creamy Danish

Increase the cream cheese filling slightly for a richer, cheesecake-like center. Be careful not to overfill the pastry cups.

5. Vanilla Cream Cheese Danish

Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Vanilla enhances the creamy filling and complements the warm spices in the plum jam.

6. Lemon Plum Danish

Mix a little freshly grated lemon zest into the cream cheese filling. The citrus notes brighten the plum flavor and balance the richness of the pastry.

7. Almond Sugar Plum Danish

Sprinkle a few sliced almonds over the pastries before baking. The almonds add a pleasant crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.

8. Holiday Spice Danish

For an extra festive variation, add a tiny pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the plum jam mixture. These spices create a deeper, more aromatic holiday flavor.

9. Powdered Sugar Finish

Once the pastries have cooled slightly, dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant bakery-style presentation.

10. Mini Sugar Plum Danishes

Cut the puff pastry into smaller squares and use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized pastries. Reduce the baking time and monitor them closely until golden.

Storage/Reheating

Although these sugar plum cheese danishes taste best freshly baked, you can store leftovers and enjoy them later.

Refrigerating

Allow the pastries to cool completely before storing.

Place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if necessary.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and keep the cream cheese filling properly chilled.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze fully baked and cooled danishes.

Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.

Freeze for up to 1 month for the best texture and flavor.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating in the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Place the refrigerated pastries on a baking sheet and warm for approximately 5 to 8 minutes, or until heated through.

This method helps restore the crisp, flaky texture of the puff pastry.

Reheating in a Toaster Oven

Place the pastries in a toaster oven at approximately 325°F (165°C) for 4 to 6 minutes.

Watch carefully to prevent the corners from becoming too dark.

Reheating in the Microwave

For a quicker option, microwave one pastry for approximately 10 to 15 seconds, adding a few seconds if necessary.

While convenient, microwaving may soften the puff pastry and reduce its crispness.

Tips for Keeping Pastries Fresh

• Avoid storing warm pastries in sealed containers, as trapped moisture can make them soggy.

• Refrigerate leftovers promptly rather than leaving cream cheese-filled pastries at room temperature for extended periods.

• Reheat only the number of pastries you plan to eat.

• For the flakiest results, use an oven or toaster oven instead of a microwave.

FAQs

1. What is a Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish?

A Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish is a sweet pastry featuring flaky puff pastry, creamy cheese filling, and a fruit topping flavored with warm holiday spices. This homemade copycat version recreates that delicious combination using simple ingredients and a muffin tin.

2. Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry works beautifully in this recipe and can provide an especially rich, buttery flavor. However, store-bought puff pastry is much quicker and more convenient, making it an excellent choice for busy mornings or last-minute baking.

3. What can I substitute for plum jam?

You can substitute plum jam with raspberry, cherry, apricot, strawberry, or mixed berry preserves. For a flavor closer to the original sugar plum inspiration, choose a dark fruit preserve with a sweet-tart taste and combine it with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

4. Can I make these danishes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese filling and spiced plum topping up to one day in advance and refrigerate them separately. When ready to bake, cut the puff pastry, assemble the danishes, and bake as directed. Keeping the pastry chilled until baking helps maintain its flaky texture.

5. Why did my puff pastry turn out soggy?

Soggy puff pastry can result from excess filling, pastry that becomes too warm before baking, or insufficient baking time. To prevent this, avoid overfilling the pastry cups, keep the dough cool, and bake until the edges are golden and crisp. Allowing the pastries to cool briefly outside the muffin tin also helps prevent trapped steam from softening the bottoms.

6. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, reduced-fat cream cheese or neufchâtel works well in this recipe. Neufchâtel has a slightly lighter texture while still providing a smooth and creamy filling. Fat-free cream cheese may produce a less rich texture, so regular or reduced-fat varieties are preferable.

7. Do I need to grease the muffin tin?

Puff pastry contains fat, which helps reduce sticking, but lightly greasing the muffin wells is a useful precaution, especially if your muffin tin does not have a reliable nonstick coating. A thin layer of butter or cooking spray will make the finished pastries easier to remove.

8. Can I make this recipe without a muffin tin?

Yes! You can arrange the puff pastry squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet instead. Gently score a border around each square without cutting all the way through, then place the cream cheese and plum filling in the center. Bake until puffed and golden. The pastries will have a flatter, more traditional danish shape.

9. Can I freeze sugar plum cheese danishes?

Yes, baked danishes can be frozen for up to 1 month for optimal quality. Allow them to cool completely, freeze individually, and transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to help restore their crispness.

10. How do I know when the danishes are fully baked?

The danishes are ready when the puff pastry has risen significantly and developed a deep golden color around the edges. The cream cheese filling should look set, and the plum topping should be glossy. If the pastry still appears pale or doughy, continue baking for a few additional minutes while monitoring closely.

Conclusion

This Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish recipe is a wonderful way to bring the flavors of your favorite coffee shop pastry into your own kitchen. With its buttery, flaky puff pastry, rich cream cheese filling, and sweet plum jam infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, every bite offers the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and warmly spiced flavors.

Best of all, these homemade danishes require only a few simple ingredients and about 30 minutes from start to finish. They’re easy enough for a weekday treat yet elegant enough to serve at holiday brunches, family gatherings, or special occasions.

Whether you enjoy them warm alongside your morning coffee or serve them as a festive dessert, these sugar plum cheese danishes are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Once you discover how simple and delicious they are to make at home, you may find yourself baking them long after the holiday season ends.

Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish

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Classic buttery spritz cookies with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate vanilla and almond flavors. These festive cookies are made using a cookie press and are perfect for holiday celebrations.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 9 minutes
• Total Time: 34 minutes
• Yield: 60 cookies
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: European
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 1/4 cups (281 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional sprinkles or melted chocolate for decorating

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). Prepare ungreased, unlined baking sheets.
2. Beat softened butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until fully combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
6. Fill a cookie press with the prepared dough and attach your preferred decorative disk.
7. Press cookies directly onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart.
8. Add sprinkles or colored sugar before baking if desired.
9. Bake for 7 to 9 minutes until the cookies are set and the edges are lightly golden.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
11. Decorate cooled cookies with melted chocolate if desired. Serve or store once completely cooled.

Notes

• This is an adapted version inspired by Sally’s Baking Addiction; the original recipe measurements have not been independently verified.
• Use softened butter that is still slightly cool for the best cookie texture.
• Ungreased and unlined baking sheets help the cookie dough release properly from the cookie press.
• Avoid chilling the dough before pressing unless it becomes too soft.
• Replace almond extract with additional vanilla extract if preferred.
• Add gel food coloring to portions of the dough for festive holiday cookies.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
• Nutrition values are estimates based on 60 cookies without optional decorations.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 52 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 22 mg
• Fat: 3.2 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1.1 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 5.5 g
• Fiber: 0.1 g
• Protein: 0.6 g
• Cholesterol: 12 mg