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Easy Rhubarb Cream cheese Danish Twists

Easy Rhubarb Cream cheese Danish Twists

Flaky, buttery puff pastry twists filled with a tangy rhubarb compote and a sweet cream cheese filling. A perfect brunch or dessert treat that is surprisingly simple to make.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 twists
Course: Brunch, Dessert, Pastry
Cuisine: American, Bakery
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

Rhubarb Filling
  • 2 cups rhubarb chopped into 1/2 inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon water
Cream Cheese Filling
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Assembly
  • 1 package frozen puff pastry thawed according to package directions (usually 2 sheets)
  • 1 large egg beaten for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon milk or water for egg wash
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for sprinkling

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the Rhubarb Filling: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, 1/4 cup of sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rhubarb breaks down and thickens slightly (about 8-10 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured surface. If necessary, gently roll them out slightly thinner into approximate 10x10 inch squares.
  4. Assemble the Twists: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface of the first puff pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges. Spoon half of the cooled rhubarb filling over the cream cheese layer. Repeat with the second pastry sheet.
  5. Cut and Twist: Starting from the long side of the pastry, carefully roll the pastry sheet tightly into a log. Seal the edges with a little water if needed. Cut each log into 6 equal pieces (about 1 inch thick). Place them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheets.
  6. Bake: Whisk the egg with milk/water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the twists lightly with the egg wash and sprinkle generously with the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the Danish twists to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. A light glaze (powdered sugar and milk) can be drizzled on top if desired.

Notes

For the best results, ensure both the rhubarb filling and cream cheese filling are completely cooled before assembling the pastries. This prevents the puff pastry from becoming heavy or soggy during baking. Thaw the puff pastry slowly in the refrigerator overnight.
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