We love Starbucks seasonal pastries, including their cheese danish. But for those of us on a low carb or keto diet, enjoying these delicious treats can be a challenge. That’s why today, we’re sharing a homemade low carb version of the cheese danish that tastes just as good as the original!
Ingredients
To make this keto cheese danish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Almond flour
- Tapioca flour
- Sweetener
- Warm water
- Reduced-fat cream cheese
- Egg yolk
- Vanilla extract
- Lime juice
Making the Dough
The dough for our low carb cheese danish is made with a combination of almond flour, tapioca flour, sweetener, and warm water. It’s important to use the right proportions of these ingredients to achieve the perfect texture and taste.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of almond flour, 1/4 cup of tapioca flour, and 2 tablespoons of sweetener.
- Gradually add 1/4 cup of warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing well until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to chill.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling
The cream cheese filling is a crucial component of a delicious cheese danish. Our low carb version is made with reduced-fat cream cheese, sweetener, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and a hint of lime juice for a tangy twist.
- In a separate bowl, combine 8 ounces of reduced-fat cream cheese, 1/4 cup of sweetener, 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of lime juice.
- Mix the ingredients together until well blended and creamy. Set the filling aside while you work on the dough.
Shaping and Baking the Danishes
Once the dough has chilled, it’s time to shape and bake the danishes. This process requires a bit of patience and technique, but the final result is definitely worth it.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and roll it into a rectangular shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into squares of your desired size.
- Gently fold the corners of each square towards the center, creating a sort of envelope shape.
- Spoon a dollop of the cream cheese filling into the center of each folded square.
- Place the filled danishes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
- In a small bowl, beat an egg and brush the egg wash over the top of each danish. This will give them a beautiful golden brown color as they bake.
- Bake the danishes in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
Enjoying the Keto Cheese Danish
Once your homemade keto cheese danishes are out of the oven, it’s time to treat yourself to a delicious, guilt-free pastry. These danishes taste just as good as the ones you’d find at Starbucks, but without all the carbs and sugar.
Serve them fresh out of the oven with a cup of steaming hot coffee or your favorite tea. The creamy, tangy cream cheese filling combined with the delicate almond flour crust will make you feel like you’re indulging in a decadent dessert, even though you’re sticking to your low carb lifestyle.
So go ahead and satisfy your cravings for a cheese danish while still staying on track with your keto diet. With this simple and flavorful recipe, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – a scrumptious pastry and a healthier lifestyle.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Can I use a different type of flour instead of almond flour?
- While almond flour is ideal for a low carb danish, you can experiment with other types of low carb flours such as coconut flour or a combination of flours. Adjust the measurements accordingly.
- Is it essential to chill the dough before shaping the danishes?
- Yes, chilling the dough allows it to firm up, making it easier to handle and shape. It also helps prevent the danishes from spreading too much during baking.
- Can I use regular cream cheese instead of reduced-fat cream cheese?
- Yes, you can use regular cream cheese if you prefer a richer and creamier filling. Just keep in mind that it will increase the calorie and fat content of the danishes.
- Can I add any other flavors to the cream cheese filling?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors such as lemon zest, cinnamon, or even some sugar-free fruit preserves. Get creative and make it your own!
- How should I store the leftover danishes?
- If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can heat them up in the oven or microwave for a few seconds to restore their freshness.
In conclusion, making your own homemade low carb cheese danish is easier than you think. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can recreate the flavors of Starbucks right in your own kitchen. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in a keto-friendly pastry that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!
