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What sets the Tropical Delight Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish apart from other pastries is its unique blend of flavors and textures. The Danish dough itself is a buttery, flaky masterpiece that serves as the perfect vessel for the luscious cheesecake filling. This combination not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a satisfying contrast between the crispy exterior and the creamy interior.

Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish

Experience a tropical escape with the Tropical Delight Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish! This delicate pastry combines the buttery, flaky goodness of Danish dough with a creamy cheesecake filling infused with sweet pineapple and coconut. Perfect for brunches or special celebrations, this recipe guides you through creating this delightful treat from scratch, showcasing the vibrant flavors of Hawaii. Indulge in a slice and get transported to sandy beaches with every bite!

Ingredients
  

For the Danish Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup sugar

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

1/2 cup milk, warmed (110°F)

1 large egg

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained

1/4 cup shredded coconut

For the Pineapple Glaze:

1/2 cup pineapple juice

1 tbsp cornstarch

1 tbsp sugar

For Garnish:

Sweetened flaked coconut, for sprinkling

Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Danish Dough:

    - In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.

      - Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

        - In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed milk and egg until well combined. Add this to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.

          - Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

            Make the Cheesecake Filling:

              - In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth.

                - Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Finally, fold in the crushed pineapple and shredded coconut.

                  Roll Out the Dough:

                    - Once the dough has risen, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

                      - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut it into 6 equal squares.

                        Assemble the Danishes:

                          - Place a generous spoonful of the cheesecake filling in the center of each square. Fold the corners toward the center and pinch to seal, creating a little pocket.

                            - Place the wooden finished Danish on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.

                              Bake the Danishes:

                                - Bake the Danishes in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove and let cool slightly.

                                  Prepare the Pineapple Glaze:

                                    - While the Danishes are baking, combine the pineapple juice, cornstarch, and sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

                                      Finish and Serve:

                                        - Brush the cooled glaze over the warm Danishes. Sprinkle with sweetened flaked coconut on top for added texture and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

                                          Enjoy! Serve these lovely Hawaiian Cheesecake Danishes warm or at room temperature and delight in the tropical flavors!

                                            Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 2 hrs | Servings: 6