Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish (Starbucks Copycat)
Enjoy a Starbucks cheese danish dupe with this easy gluten-free danish recipe, ready in about 30 minutes! Featuring Schar gluten-free puff pastry and a deliciously sweet cream cheese filling, this treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack. Each bite offers a flaky exterior paired with creamy sweetness, making it an irresistible option for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and sweet glaze creates a delightful taste that rivals Starbucks’ version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Using Schar gluten-free puff pastry ensures everyone can enjoy this treat without worrying about gluten.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, this danish fits any meal plan.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful golden-brown pastries topped with icing are sure to impress your family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish seamlessly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Fork
- Baking sheet
- Small zip-top bag
Importance of Each Tool
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
- Mixing bowls: Allows you to combine ingredients effectively without mess.
- Fork: Useful for pricking the pastry and ensuring even baking.

Ingredients
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 Tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of table salt
For the Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet Schar gluten-free puff pastry (defrosted and brought to room temperature)
For the Egg Wash and Glaze
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 Tablespoon milk
How to Make Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish (Starbucks Copycat)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
2. 2 Tablespoon granulated sugar
3. 1 teaspoon lemon juice
4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5. pinch of table salt
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unroll the sheet of Schar gluten-free puff pastry:
* Patch any cracks if necessary or re-roll gently.
* Cut the pastry into 6 equal rectangles and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Prick the Pastry Centers
Using a fork, prick the centers of each pastry rectangle. This allows steam to escape while baking.
Step 5: Add the Filling
Spread a dollop of the cream cheese filling in the center of each rectangle:
* Be careful not to reach the edges to prevent spilling during baking.
Step 6: Apply Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat one egg. Brush the exposed edges of each pastry with the egg wash for a golden finish.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven:
* Bake at 400°F for about 12-14 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
* Allow them to cool slightly before adding glaze.
Step 8: Make the Glaze
In another bowl, mix together:
1. 1 cup powdered sugar
2. 1 Tablespoon milk
Stir until smooth.
Step 9: Pipe Glaze on Pastries
Transfer the glaze into a small zip-top bag:
* Cut off one corner of the bag for piping.
* Pipe lines of icing across each cooled danish.
Step 10: Serve
Let them cool slightly before serving your delicious Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish! Enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish (Starbucks Copycat)
Serving your Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious treat.
With Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Sliced Apples: Pair with thin apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon for extra sweetness.
Accompanied by Coffee or Tea
- Espresso: Enjoy your danish alongside a rich espresso for a classic pairing.
- Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea can balance the sweetness of the danish beautifully.
Garnished with Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Top your danish with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or almond extract to the whipped cream to enhance the flavor.
How to Perfect Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish (Starbucks Copycat)
To ensure your Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Avoid Overworking Puff Pastry: Handle the pastry gently to maintain its flaky texture; avoid stretching it too much.
- Keep Oven Temperature Consistent: Ensure your oven is preheated accurately for even baking and browning.
- Watch Baking Time Closely: Keep an eye on the danishes as they bake; they should be golden brown but not overdone.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish (Starbucks Copycat)
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to the richness of the danish.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit complements the creamy filling nicely.
- Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche offers a savory contrast that pairs well with the sweet danish.
- Cottage Cheese Bowl: Serve cottage cheese topped with honey and nuts for added protein and crunch.
- Oatmeal Bowl: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with fruits or nuts provides a hearty breakfast option.
- Green Salad: A simple green salad dressed lightly can cleanse the palate and add freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish, be mindful of these common mistakes to ensure the best results.
- Ignoring the cream cheese temperature: Always use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps and an uneven texture.
- Overworking the puff pastry: Handle the gluten-free puff pastry gently. Overworking it can make it tough instead of flaky. Aim for minimal handling.
- Skipping the egg wash: Brushing the edges with egg wash gives your danish a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step for that perfect finish!
- Not preheating the oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps achieve that ideal rise and crispiness in your danish.
- Forgetting to glaze after cooling: Wait until the danishes are slightly cooled before adding glaze. This allows it to set perfectly without melting off.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your danishes in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish (Starbucks Copycat)
- Wrap each danish individually in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish (Starbucks Copycat)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat each danish for about 15-20 seconds, but be cautious as they may become soggy.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish (Starbucks Copycat) special?
This recipe replicates the beloved Starbucks cheese danish while being entirely gluten-free, allowing everyone to enjoy its deliciousness.
Can I customize the filling of my cheese danish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add fruit preserves or fresh fruit to the cream cheese mixture for added flavor and variety.
How do I know when my danishes are done baking?
The danishes should be golden brown on top and puffed up slightly. A visual check is key!
How do I make my own gluten-free puff pastry?
You can create homemade gluten-free puff pastry using alternative flours like almond or coconut flour, though store-bought options like Schar are convenient and reliable.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish (Starbucks Copycat) is not just a treat; it’s versatile enough for breakfast or dessert! Customize it with different fillings or toppings to match your taste preferences. Enjoy this delightful treat that everyone can indulge in!
Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish (Starbucks Copycat)
Indulge in a delightful treat with this Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Danish, a Starbucks copycat recipe that brings café-style pastries right into your kitchen! Ready in just 30 minutes, this danish features flaky Schar gluten-free puff pastry filled with a rich and creamy cream cheese mixture. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack, each bite offers a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. The beautiful golden-brown finish topped with a sweet glaze makes these danishes not only delicious but also visually impressive.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: Makes 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 sheet Schar gluten-free puff pastry (defrosted)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Unroll the gluten-free puff pastry and cut it into six equal rectangles, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Prick the centers of each rectangle with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Add a dollop of cream cheese filling to the center of each rectangle.
- Brush the exposed edges with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden brown; let cool slightly before glazing.
- Mix powdered sugar and milk to create the glaze; pipe it onto cooled danishes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 danish (70g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg