Baked Prune and Cream Cheese Danish

1.Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2.In a small saucepan, combine the chopped prunes, water, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the prunes soften and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

3.In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

4.On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a roughly 9x9 inch square. Cut the pastry into four equal squares.

5.Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square, spreading slightly but leaving a border around the edges.

6.Top the cream cheese layer with a spoonful of the cooled prune filling.

7.Sprinkle crushed animal crackers evenly over the prune filling for added texture and a subtle crunch.

8.Fold the corners of each pastry square towards the center, slightly overlapping, to create a pinwheel or envelope shape. Press gently to seal.

9.Brush the tops and edges of each Danish with the beaten egg to achieve a golden brown finish.

10.Place the prepared Danishes on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden.

11.Remove from the oven and, if desired, brush the tops with melted butter for a glossy finish.

12.Allow the Danishes to cool slightly on a wire rack. Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.