Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon instant yeast
  • ½ cup whole milk, warmed
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 cup fruit jam (apricot, raspberry, or strawberry)
  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
  2. Add warm milk and softened butter; mix until combined.
  3. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
  6. Stir in your choice of fruit jam until well blended.
  7. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  8. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, approximately 12 x 16 inches.
  9. Cut slits along the edges of the dough to create flaps (about 1 inch wide).
  10. Spread the cream cheese mixture down the center of the dough, followed by the fruit jam.
  11. Fold the flaps over the filling, alternating sides to create a braid pattern.
  12. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  13. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
  14. Allow the Danish Ring to cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
  15. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.