Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish

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

• Quick and easy to make: These delicious pastries come together in just 30 minutes using store-bought puff pastry.

• Inspired by Starbucks: Enjoy the familiar flavors of the popular seasonal Sugar Plum Cheese Danish whenever the craving strikes.

• Flaky and buttery texture: Puff pastry bakes into beautiful golden layers that perfectly complement the creamy filling.

• Sweet and tangy cream cheese: The lightly sweetened cream cheese creates a rich, smooth center without overpowering the fruit.

• Warm holiday spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add a comforting flavor that makes these danishes especially delicious during the colder months.

• Perfect for entertaining: These individual pastries look impressive on a breakfast or brunch table.

• Easy to customize: You can experiment with different fruit preserves, spices, and toppings to create your own version.

Whether you’re preparing a festive breakfast or simply treating yourself to something sweet, these homemade cheese danishes are sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

You only need a few simple ingredients to recreate these delicious Starbucks-inspired pastries at home.

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

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

• All-purpose flour, for lightly dusting the work surface

• 4 ounces cream cheese or Neufchâtel cheese, softened

• 1 to 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1/4 cup plum jam

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Ingredient Notes

Puff pastry: Store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe incredibly convenient. Be sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before working with it. The pastry should be pliable but still cool for the best flaky texture.

Cream cheese: Full-fat cream cheese creates a rich and creamy filling, while Neufchâtel cheese offers a slightly lighter alternative. Allow it to soften before mixing to prevent lumps.

Powdered sugar: Just a small amount adds sweetness to the cream cheese filling. Start with one tablespoon and increase to two if you prefer a sweeter pastry.

Plum jam: This is the signature ingredient that gives these danishes their fruity flavor. Choose a smooth, flavorful plum preserve for the best results.

Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: These three spices transform ordinary plum jam into a warm, festive topping. A little goes a long way, especially with cloves.

Directions

Making these Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danishes is surprisingly simple. Follow these easy steps for perfectly golden pastries with a creamy, fruity center.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a standard muffin tin if needed to help prevent the pastries from sticking.

Make sure the oven is fully preheated before baking so the puff pastry rises properly and develops crisp, flaky layers.

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 slightly extend the dough and smooth any creases.

Avoid rolling too thin, as the pastry needs enough thickness to create its signature flaky layers.

You can skip rolling altogether if your puff pastry sheet is already an appropriate size.

Step 3: Cut and Shape the Pastry

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

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

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

These raised corners will create a beautiful bakery-style appearance as the pastries puff up during baking.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar.

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

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

Use the back of a spoon to spread the filling slightly in the center of each pastry, keeping it away from the edges.

Step 5: Prepare the Spiced Plum Topping

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

Mix thoroughly until the spices are evenly incorporated into the jam.

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

Avoid overfilling the danishes, as too much jam may bubble over during baking. Depending on how generously you fill them, you may have a little jam mixture left over.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes.

The pastries are ready when the puff pastry has risen and turned a beautiful golden-brown color.

The cream cheese filling should be set, and the plum topping may appear slightly glossy and bubbly.

If the pastries need additional browning, bake for another 2 to 3 minutes while watching closely.

Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve

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

Carefully lift each pastry out of the muffin tin using a small spatula or butter knife.

Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy while warm.

The combination of crisp pastry, creamy cheese, and sweet spiced plum filling is especially delicious when freshly baked.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes nine individual cheese danishes, perfect for sharing with family or serving at a small brunch gathering.

For a larger group, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches or use two muffin tins.

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. Mixed Berry Cheese Danish

Replace the plum jam with raspberry, strawberry, or mixed berry preserves for a bright, fruity alternative.

You can keep the warm spices or omit them for a more traditional berry-and-cream-cheese flavor.

2. Apricot Cream Cheese Danish

Use apricot preserves instead of plum jam for a slightly tangy and sweet pastry.

A small pinch of cinnamon complements the apricot filling beautifully.

3. Apple Cinnamon Danish

Replace the plum jam with a thick apple preserve or finely chopped cooked apples mixed with cinnamon.

This variation is especially delicious during autumn and pairs wonderfully with hot coffee.

4. Extra Creamy Danish

Increase the cream cheese filling slightly if you prefer a richer, more cheesecake-like center.

Be careful not to overfill the pastries, as the filling can expand during baking.

5. Vanilla Cream Cheese Danish

Add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture.

The vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds a subtle bakery-style flavor.

6. Almond Sugar Plum Danish

Add a tiny splash of almond extract to the cream cheese filling and sprinkle sliced almonds over the pastries before baking.

The almonds provide a delicate crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.

7. Powdered Sugar Finish

For a prettier presentation, lightly dust the cooled danishes with powdered sugar just before serving.

This simple finishing touch makes them look especially festive.

8. Citrus Sugar Plum Danish

Add a little freshly grated orange zest to the spiced plum jam.

The citrus flavor brightens the fruit filling and balances the richness of the cream cheese.

Storage/Reheating

These homemade Sugar Plum Cheese Danishes taste best when freshly baked, but you can store leftovers and enjoy them later.

Refrigerator Storage

Allow the danishes to cool completely before storing.

Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Because the filling contains cream cheese, avoid leaving the pastries at room temperature for longer than 2 hours.

To help preserve their texture, arrange the pastries in a single layer whenever possible.

Freezer Storage

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked danishes.

Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each pastry individually in plastic wrap.

Place the wrapped pastries in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.

Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Keep in mind that the cream cheese filling may change texture slightly after freezing.

Reheating in the Oven

For the best results, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

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

This method helps restore some of the pastry’s crispness.

Reheating in a Toaster Oven

A toaster oven is another excellent option for reheating individual danishes.

Heat at 325°F (165°C) for about 4 to 6 minutes, checking frequently to prevent overbrowning.

Reheating in the Microwave

If you’re short on time, place a danish on a microwave-safe plate and heat for approximately 10 to 15 seconds.

Continue in short intervals if needed.

Although convenient, microwaving can soften the puff pastry and make it less crispy.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cream cheese filling and spiced plum topping one day in advance.

Store both mixtures separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to bake, simply cut the puff pastry, assemble the danishes, and place them in the oven.

This is a convenient option for holiday mornings or brunch gatherings when you want freshly baked pastries without spending too much time in the kitchen.

FAQs

1. What is a Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish?

A Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish is a seasonal bakery-style pastry featuring flaky layers of puff pastry, a creamy cheese filling, and a sweet plum topping flavored with warm spices. This homemade version recreates those comforting flavors using simple grocery-store ingredients.

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

Yes! Homemade puff pastry works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure the dough is properly chilled before cutting and shaping. Store-bought puff pastry is recommended for convenience because it saves time while still producing delicious, flaky results.

3. Can I substitute the plum jam with another fruit preserve?

Absolutely. Raspberry, cherry, strawberry, apricot, and mixed berry preserves are all excellent alternatives. However, plum jam provides the most authentic flavor for this Starbucks-inspired recipe, especially when combined with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

4. Do I have to use a muffin tin to make these danishes?

No, a muffin tin is helpful but not essential. You can arrange the puff pastry squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet instead. Lightly score a smaller square inside each piece without cutting all the way through, then place the filling in the center. The pastries may spread differently, but they will still taste delicious.

5. Can I make these cheese danishes ahead of time?

Yes. For the best texture, prepare the cream cheese filling and plum topping in advance and refrigerate them separately. Assemble and bake the pastries just before serving. You can also bake them ahead and reheat them in the oven to restore some crispness.

6. Why didn’t my puff pastry rise properly?

Puff pastry may fail to rise if it becomes too warm before baking, is rolled too thin, or is placed in an oven that hasn’t reached the correct temperature. For the best results, keep the pastry cool, avoid overworking the dough, and preheat your oven fully to 400°F (200°C).

7. Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?

Yes. Neufchâtel cheese or reduced-fat cream cheese can be used instead of full-fat cream cheese. The filling may be slightly less rich, but the pastries will still taste delicious. Avoid very watery spreadable cheese products, as they can affect the texture of the filling.

8. How do I prevent the danishes from becoming soggy?

To prevent soggy pastries, avoid adding too much plum jam or cream cheese filling. Make sure the oven is properly preheated and bake until the pastry is golden and crisp. Allow the danishes to cool briefly on a wire rack so excess steam can escape rather than collecting underneath.

9. Can I freeze Sugar Plum Cheese Danishes?

Yes, baked danishes can be frozen for up to 2 months for the best quality. Cool them completely, wrap individually, and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before serving. The texture may be slightly softer than when freshly baked.

10. What should I serve with Sugar Plum Cheese Danishes?

These pastries pair beautifully with freshly brewed coffee, cappuccino, latte, hot chocolate, or chai tea. For a complete breakfast or brunch, serve them alongside fresh berries, sliced fruit, scrambled eggs, or yogurt. Their sweet and creamy flavor makes them a wonderful addition to holiday breakfast spreads.

Conclusion

This Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a beloved seasonal coffee-shop treat at home. With its buttery, flaky puff pastry, smooth cream cheese filling, and sweet plum jam infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, every bite delivers the perfect balance of richness, sweetness, and comforting spice.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is how effortlessly it comes together. In just 30 minutes, you can create nine beautiful, bakery-style pastries using ingredients that are easy to find and simple to prepare.

Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend breakfast, hosting a festive holiday brunch, or looking for a special homemade treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, these Sugar Plum Cheese Danishes are an excellent choice.

Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture, experiment with your favorite fruit preserves, and enjoy the satisfaction of making a Starbucks-inspired pastry right in your own kitchen.

Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish

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These Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danishes feature flaky, golden puff pastry filled with sweetened cream cheese and warmly spiced plum jam. A festive, bakery-style treat that’s easy to make at home in just 30 minutes.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 9 danishes
• Category: Breakfast, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
• All-purpose flour (for rolling)
• 4 ounces cream cheese or neufchâtel (softened)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup plum jam
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly dust your countertop and rolling pin with all-purpose flour. Gently roll out the thawed puff pastry just enough to extend it slightly. This step is optional.
3. Cut the puff pastry sheet into 9 equal squares. Transfer each square to a well of a muffin tin, gently pressing the pastry into the bottom while leaving the corners extending above the edges.
4. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with 1 to 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
5. Divide the sweetened cream cheese evenly among the 9 pastry squares, spreading it slightly with the back of a spoon.
6. In another small bowl, combine the plum jam, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir until the spices are evenly incorporated.
7. Spoon a dollop of the spiced plum jam mixture over the cream cheese filling in each pastry square. You may have some jam mixture left over.
8. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is beautifully puffed and golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and allow the danishes to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• For the best results, thaw the puff pastry according to the package instructions while keeping it cool enough to handle easily.
• Neufchâtel cheese can be substituted for regular cream cheese for a slightly lighter filling.
• Adjust the powdered sugar between 1 and 2 tablespoons depending on your preferred sweetness.
• If plum jam is unavailable, try using plum preserves or another fruit jam, such as raspberry or cherry, for a different flavor.
• A light dusting of powdered sugar before serving adds a beautiful bakery-style finish.
• Store leftover danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat leftovers in a toaster oven to help restore the flaky pastry texture, or warm briefly in the microwave for convenience.
• These danishes are delicious served warm with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
• Nutrition information is estimated per danish and may vary depending on the puff pastry, cream cheese, and jam used.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 danish
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 135 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 19 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg