Looking for a bakery-worthy treat that’s easy to make at home? These Sweet Potato Cheesecake Danishes bring the cozy flavors of fall straight to your kitchen—with flaky puff pastry, creamy cheesecake, and rich sweet potato filling. Let’s break down how to make this crave-worthy dessert that’s perfect for brunch, holidays, or anytime you want something a little special.
Why You’ll Love These Danishes
- Flaky puff pastry makes it feel gourmet—without the hassle.
- Sweet potato and cheesecake? Yes, it’s as delicious as it sounds.
- Great for entertaining or meal prepping your sweets.
- Drizzle glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.
Sweet Potato Cheesecake Danishes
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sweet Potato Filling
- 3 small sweet potatoes, baked (400°F for 45–60 mins until tender)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- ⅓ cup evaporated milk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Dash of nutmeg
- Dash of salt
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ to ¾ cup sugar (based on how sweet you like it)
- 1 large egg
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Other Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon milk or water, beaten)
- Piping bags (or sandwich bags with snipped corners)
Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- Splash of vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Sweet Potatoes
- Bake sweet potatoes at 400°F for 45–60 minutes until soft.
- Let them cool, peel, then blend or mash until smooth—no strings!
- Mix in butter, evaporated milk, egg, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Stir until well combined. Small lumps are okay.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In another bowl, mix cream cheese with sugar until smooth.
- Add egg, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt.
- Use a whisk or hand mixer for a silky texture.
3. Get the Puff Pastry Ready
- Preheat oven based on puff pastry package (usually around 400°F).
- Unfold pastry sheet onto a baking tray lined with parchment.
- Cut into 6 to 8 equal squares.
- Lightly score a smaller square inside each piece—don’t cut through. This helps the center puff less.
4. Fill the Danishes
- Transfer sweet potato and cheesecake fillings to piping bags.
- Pipe one line of sweet potato inside the scored square.
- Pipe a line of cheesecake right next to it.
- Don’t overfill—leave space for the pastry to puff.
5. Brush and Bake
- Brush the outer edges of each Danish with egg wash.
- Bake for 11–14 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Let cool before glazing.
6. Make the Glaze
- Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle over cooled Danishes using a spoon or piping bag.
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Cheesecake Danishes
- Use fresh sweet potatoes. Canned won’t give the same depth of flavor.
- Don’t skip scoring the dough. It keeps the filling centered and the edges puffy.
- Chill the pastry. Cold pastry puffs better.
- Use a baking sheet with parchment. Easier cleanup and no sticking.
- Glaze after cooling. Hot Danishes will melt the glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Bake them the day before and store them in an airtight container. Glaze before serving for best results.
Do they need to be refrigerated?
Yes. Because of the cheesecake filling, store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze unglazed Danishes in a sealed container. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes, then glaze.
Can I use store-bought sweet potato purée?
You can, but it won’t be as flavorful or creamy. For best results, bake your own.
Flavor Variations
Want to switch it up? Try these ideas:
- Add pecans to the top for crunch.
- Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on the edges before baking.
- Mix a little maple syrup into the glaze for fall vibes.
- Use crescent roll dough if puff pastry isn’t available.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Danishes:
- With a hot cup of coffee
- As a Thanksgiving brunch treat
- Alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- For dessert with a drizzle of caramel
Nutrition Facts (Per Danish – Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 22g
Note: Based on using 8 Danishes per puff pastry sheet. May vary by brand and portion size.
These Sweet Potato Cheesecake Danishes combine cozy comfort with creamy indulgence in every bite. Easy to make, delicious to eat, and a total crowd-pleaser—this recipe deserves a spot in your baking rotation.
Ready to wow your family or guests?
Go grab that puff pastry and get baking!
