
You know what I hate? The fact that Starbucks only offers the Sugar Plum Danish once a year. Well, wonder no more, because today, we’re diving headfirst into the whimsical world of homemade pastries to bring you a copycat recipe that’s bound to make your taste buds sing with joy. Get ready to impress your friends, your family, and most importantly, yourself, with this irresistibly delicious Sugar Plum Danish.
How This Recipe Came to Be:
Once upon a time, in the land of overpriced lattes and Instagram-worthy desserts, Starbucks decided to sprinkle a little holiday magic into their pastry lineup. Enter the Sugar Plum Danish, a pastry so enchanting it could make even the grumpiest Grinch grin. Rumor has it that a Starbucks barista, inspired by a festive dance recital, dreamt of sugar plums and flaky pastries swirling together in perfect harmony. This culinary daydream turned into a reality, delighting customers far and wide. Now, we’re here to bring that dream to your kitchen, no barista training required!

Who Will Love This Recipe:
This recipe is for the pastry enthusiasts, the brunch aficionados, and anyone who believes that a little sweetness can turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary one. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Danish will make you feel like a pastry chef extraordinaire.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Puff Pastry: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap store-bought puff pastry for homemade dough.
- Plum Jam: Apricot or raspberry jam makes a great substitute if plum isn’t your jam (pun intended).
- Cream Cheese: For a dairy-free option, use vegan cream cheese.
Why This Recipe Works:
The combination of buttery, flaky pastry, rich cream cheese, and sweet plum jam creates a symphony of textures and flavors that’s simply irresistible. The balance of tart and sweet ensures each bite is perfectly satisfying. Plus, using ready-made puff pastry makes this recipe surprisingly easy, so you can enjoy bakery-quality treats without the bakery effort.
Ingredients List (No Measurements):
- Puff pastry
- Plum jam
- Cream cheese
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Flour (for dusting)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Danish
Equipment
- 1 Muffin Tin
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
- 1/2 cup red plum jam
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg beaten
- Flour for dusting
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry to smooth any creases.
- Create the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Assemble the Danishes: Cut the puff pastry into 6 equal squares. Insert them in the muffin tin. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each square, followed by a dollop of plum jam.
- Bake: Transfer the danishes to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Finishing Touches: Allow them to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use a different type of jam?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite jams like apricot or raspberry.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble them and store them in the fridge overnight. Just bake them fresh in the morning.
Q: How should I store leftover danishes?
A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispness.
Q: Can I freeze the danishes?
A: Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Thaw and reheat in the oven to enjoy later.
When is the sugar plum danish coming back to Starbucks?
It comes back to Starbucks during the winter months, AKA Christmas time. Doesn’t that suck so bad?
Sugar plum Danish Starbucks 2024 where to buy
You can purchase the Sugar Plum Danish at any Starbucks location if you can find them. Truth be told, I can never find them. That’s why I started making them.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a delightful copycat recipe that brings the magic of Starbucks’ Sugar Plum Danish right into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving these at a festive brunch or enjoying one with your morning coffee, this treat is sure to bring a smile to your face. Now that you’ve learned how to make sugar plum danish, get to baking! Make sure you pair this with one of my favorite cocktails! Also, like my Facebook page here.