Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish – Price, Calories & Full Review

$2.50 – 330 Calories

Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish is a seasonal pastry that blends flaky puff pastry with a sweet plum jam and a creamy filling for a festive treat. This article walks you through the pastry’s price, calories, full ingredient list, nutrition facts, and step‑by‑step recipe, plus ordering tips and pairing ideas, so you can decide if it’s worth the holiday hype or simply make your own copycat version at home. We’ll share a detailed Starbucks copycat sugar plum danish recipe, highlight the key tip for sugar plum danish recipe that keeps the puff pastry tender, and explain how the sweet plum jam and creamy filling work together with a hint of pumpkin spice—perfect for after‑school snacks or an after‑school surprise.

Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish Quick Facts

Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish is a flaky, sweet pastry that blends buttery puff pastry with a creamy cheese filling and a bright plum jam center. A single piece costs around $2.50 and contains approximately 350 calories, 9 g of protein, 12 g of fat, and 48 g of carbohydrates. The Danish delivers a tart‑sweet flavor profile with a crisp exterior and a soft, velvety interior.

What Is the Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish?

The Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish is a seasonal pastry that appears each winter with a roundish shape and a tinted purple glaze meant to mimic classic candy sugar plums. It combines flaky puff pastry, a creamy plum‑infused cheese filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar for a treat that many call literally perfection during the holidays.

Social media buzzes whenever the item returns; one tweeted that they were “downright disgruntled” when it vanished, while another user shared, “Okay but the sugar plum cheese danish @starbucks is so good. 10/10 would recommend.” The pastry’s popularity on Twitter and Instagram shows it’s a popular treat that fans are dreaming about each season. One user even wrote, “Quit playing with other desserts, this is the one we’re dreaming of.” Another comment read, “Stop playing around—this winter flavor is the real deal.”

Starbucks Copycat Sugar Plum Cheese Danishes

Home bakers can recreate the café‑style result with a simple copycat recipe. Using thawed frozen puff pastry, a quick cream cheese filling, and a sweet plum jam delivers the same flaky layers and plum cream taste that Starbucks serves.

• Softened cream cheese at room temperature mixed with sugar or powdered sugar.
• Thawed puff pastry sheets cut into equal squares.
• Plum jam flavored with a pinch of pumpkin spice for extra warmth.
• Egg wash and cooking spray for a golden finish.
• Optional dried fruits or candy leaves sprinkled on top for extra holiday sparkle.

The full printable recipe card includes both US customary and metric measurements, making it easy to follow. In just ten minutes of prep, you’ll have six irresistible treats ready to enjoy with coffee or tea. The card containing the step‑by‑step guide is designed for a quick prep, and the metric units help anyone who prefers them.

Prep Your Pastry

Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (180°C). Thaw the frozen puff pastry sheets, then use a sharp knife to cut each sheet into four equal squares. You’ll end up with eight pieces, though six are sufficient for a standard batch of these danishes. The shape resembles a classic danish, and the hard sugar glaze gives it that festive, American dessert feel that makes the holidays roll right onto your plate.

Prep the Oven and Pastry

Set the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a jumbo muffin tin so the pastry won’t stick. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets and cut each sheet into four equal squares. With six squares total, you’ll have two pieces left over for another batch or a different recipe.

Shape the Pastry

Place one puff pastry square into each cup of the muffin tin, gently press it into the bottom and up the sides to create a shallow cup. Be careful not to stretch the dough too much, as this can prevent it from puff properly.

Flavor the Plum Jelly

In a separate bowl, mix a pinch of cinnamon into the plum jelly. This simple step adds a warm spiciness that balances the sweet flavor of the jelly. Stir cinnamon until evenly distributed, then pour the mixture into the pastry cups.

Assemble Your Danishes

Begin by placing a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square, fill puff pastries evenly. Next, add a scoop of the plum jam mixture directly on top of the cheese, allowing the two layers to meld as they bake. Brush the pastry edges with a quick egg wash to encourage browning. Transfer the assembled pieces to the oven and bake for minutes until the tops turn a deep until golden color, usually 15‑20 minutes.

Prepare the Plum Filling

In a small bowl, stir a pinch of cinnamon into the plum jelly until the mixture is evenly until combined. This simple step deepens the fruit flavor without overwhelming it, giving the jam a warm, aromatic finish.

Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the two together until the texture is until smooth and easy to spoon. Add 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar, a teaspoon lemon juice, and a teaspoon vanilla extract, then continue mixing until the sugar together with the cheese is fully integrated and creamy. A pinch of salt can be added for balance, but the filling is ready once it holds together without lumps. The recipe calls for about 4 ounces cream cheese, ensuring a rich, buttery consistency.

Starbucks Sugar Plum Danishes Recipe

The copycat version of the Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish captures the festive flavor in a short 30‑minute window. Prep time is just 10 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes for baking, making a total of 30 minutes. The recipe serves six and uses simple, seasonal ingredients: flaky puff pastry, sweet plum jam, and a creamy cheese filling. It is a popular, easy‑to‑make dessert that feels like a treat from a Weight Watchers‑friendly menu. The dish is gluten‑free, and the creamy cheese adds a luscious texture to the sweet plum.

• Calories: 771 per serving, a tasty yet measured indulgence.
• Course: Breakfast – a perfect start to the day.
• Cuisine: American – classic pastry style.
• Healthy Items: Contains dairy but can be enjoyed in moderation.
• Popular Items: Frequently requested during the fall season.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes.
• Servings: 6.
• Time: 20 minutes baking, 10 minutes prep.
• Total Time: 30 minutes.
• Copycat Starbucks Sugar Plum Danishes: Many home bakers have shared their versions online.
• Minutes: 30 total.
• Pin recipe: A Pinterest pin showcases the final look.
• Preferred source: Home kitchens using fresh pastry.
• Recipe pin: Available on social media for quick reference.
• Easy‑to‑make dessert: Ideal for beginners.
• Filling combine: Cream cheese and powdered sugar create a smooth blend.
• Instant hit: Customers rave about the first bite.
• Recipe brings: The sweet plum and creamy cheese together beautifully.
• Seasonal treat: A favorite during the holiday season.
• Simple ingredients: No complex steps.
• Pastry thawed: Allow the pastry to reach room temperature before use.
• Cup powdered: 1 cup for the plum jelly.
• Teaspoon cinnamon: 1 teaspoon to flavor the cream cheese.
• Cheese softened: 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened at room temperature.
• Counts frozen: Two puff pastry sheets, frozen, are required.
• Cup red: 1 cup of red plum jelly.
• Jelly jam: Sweet plum jelly serves as the base.
• Ounces cream: 8 ounces of cream cheese.
• Reviews: 5‑star rating from 4 reviewers.
• Stars: 5‑star overall.
• Ever tasted: Those who have sampled this seasonal sugar treat often ask for it again.
• Seasonal sugar: The plum jam adds a subtle sweetness.

Ingredients US CustomaryMetric 1x2x3x

Begin with two frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed to room temperature. Combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with a quarter cup of powdered sugar and a teaspoon of cinnamon to create the filling. Spread one cup of red plum jelly over the puff pastry, then dollop the cream‑cheese mixture on top. Finally, whisk one egg to brush the pastry before baking, and dust the finished danishes with additional powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

Cheese Danish

Preparation takes ten minutes, with a twenty‑minute bake to achieve a golden crust. The entire process finishes in thirty minutes, making it a convenient option for a quick breakfast or snack. Those who have sampled this seasonal Starbucks treat often express a craving for it daily, praising its balance of sweet plum and creamy cheese. The dessert holds a solid five‑star rating from four reviewers, reflecting its popularity among coffeehouse pastry fans.

Ingredients

The base of the Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish relies on a 17.3‑ounce box puff pastry, typically two sheets that have been thawed. For the custardy layer you’ll need one large egg, whole, and one large egg yolk, divided as the recipe directs. Add ounces cream (about 2 oz) to the mixture for extra silkiness. These ingredients create the flaky, buttery crust that holds the sweet plum topping.

Notes & Tips

For a truly next‑level puffy Danish, chill the puff pastry after you’ve shaped the pieces. Cold butter forms distinct layers, giving the pastry extra lift when it bakes. If you’re in a hurry, you’ll still get a puffy Danish, but the chill step makes it SUPER superior.

Make sure the cream cheese is at room temp before mixing; a little softer cheese prevents a lumpy filling. You can blend the cheese in a food processor for an ultra‑smooth texture, though a simple adult toaster‑style whisk works fine, too. The chill and room‑temp steps are totally optional, but they help avoid a dense, uneven center.

Plum Filling

The plum component combines ½ cup plum jam with a pinch of teaspoon cinnamon and optional nutmeg or cloves for warmth. Enhance the jam with ¼ teaspoon lemon juice and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt to brighten the flavor, then stir in ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract. For a decorative finish, dust the assembled danishes with a light sprinkling of turbinado sugar or tablespoons powdered sugar—about three tablespoons—just before serving.

Think of the Danish as a little food item that can feel a bit little showier when paired with a side of toaster strudels, turning breakfast into a mini‑feast.

Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish Price

The Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish typically costs around $4.89 to $5.29 depending on the location and any regional price adjustments. Prices are set at each store, so you may find slight variations, but the average retail cost stays within this range.

Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish Nutrition Facts

The Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish delivers about 330 calories per pastry, with the bulk of the energy coming from fat and carbohydrates. This makes it a satisfying treat, though the calorie count is comparable to many other baked goods found at Popular Restaurants.

These nutrition figures are estimates generated from online calculators and should be used as a general guideline only. Starbucks provides this nutrition information as part of its full disclosure policy, and the numbers may vary slightly depending on the specific batch of puff pastry used.

• Copycat starbucks fans often turn to a Homemade Dressing Recipe that mirrors the creamy swirl found in the plum danishes.
• Some Instagram 4sonsrus accounts share photos of Baked Apple Rings alongside the Danish, offering a sweet contrast.
• A recent Instagram Mention highlighted how Apples Wrapped can complement the tart flavor of the pastry.
• For a savory side, try Stove Top Stuffing With Cornbread, a classic pairing in many cafés.
• Content continues with tips on qualifying purchases through Amazon associate affiliate links, so you can shop while enjoying the treat.

Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish Ingredients

Every bite of a Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish starts with a carefully chosen blend of puff pastry, a creamy cheese filling, and a sweet plum jam that carries the signature autumn flavor. The standard size pastry costs about $3.95 and contains roughly 380 calories per serving.

• Puff pastry – One sheet of refrigerated, premade puff pastry (about 9×12 inches). If you prefer a gluten‑free version, select a gluten‑free puff pastry that still delivers the classic flaky layers. The dough contains enriched wheat flour, butter, water, salt, and a pinch of citric acid to keep the texture tender.
• Cheese filling – 4 ounces of full‑fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature. For a lighter option, swap in low‑fat cream cheese or neufchâtel; the texture remains tender and the flavor stays mellow. The filling also includes a dash of cultured dextrose, a sprinkle of guar gums, and a pinch of L‑lactic acid for a bakery‑style finish.
• Sweetener for the filling – 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar). If you need a substitute, granulated sugar or corn syrup can be used, though the mixture will be less smooth.
• Plum jam – A thick, glossy red plum jam made with plum filling, maltodextrin, and a hint of beet juice for color. The jam also contains malic acid, ascorbic acid, and a touch of clove, creating a warm seasonal flavor that blends smoothly with the cheese.
• Egg wash – One large egg, beaten, to brush the top of the pastry before baking, giving it a golden‑brown sheen. Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the wash lets the spice rise during baking.
• Optional garnish – A light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel glaze, or a spoonful of sweet loren’s red plum jelly for an extra touch of sweetness.

Puff Pastry

For the pastry base, use one sheet of premade puff pastry, thawed according to package instructions. Once ready, roll the sheet out on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases before cutting it into the desired size block. A large egg, beaten with a dash of water, should be brushed over the pastry’s surface to promote a glossy finish during baking. This simple preparation ensures a light, buttery crust that balances the richness of the cheese and plum fillings while staying actually doable at home.

The recipe card even notes that the pastry can be left to rise for a few minutes, letting the butter melt into layers for a bakery‑style finish.

Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish Allergen Information

The Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish contains several common allergens, so it’s important to check the ingredients if you have sensitivities.

If you have a severe dairy or egg allergy, consider preparing a homemade version using dairy‑free cream cheese and an egg‑free glaze. Always verify the specific bakery’s ingredient list, as formulations can vary by location.

Flavor Profile and Taste Review

Starbucks’ Sugar Plum Cheese Danish delivers a buttery pastry with a sweet yet tart plum filling that melts into the dough as it cools. The plum jam is subtle, letting the cheese and plum flavors shine without overpowering the crust. Some bakers have noted that a poorly set dough can cause the filling to slide off; a well‑balanced dough keeps it together. A gluten‑free cheese option is available for those with dietary needs, adding a creamy contrast. The sugar plum layer is baked inside, giving a richer, more integrated taste than a pastry topped with jam afterward.

Voters rate it 94% tasty and 0% healthy, reflecting its indulgent profile. This classic danish recipe showcases why cheese danishes remain a favorite.

Is the Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish Worth It?

The Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish delivers a winter flavor that feels extra special, especially when the plum jelly and cream cheese are balanced just right. One user on Twitter called it “literally perfection,” while another posted, “Okay but the sugar plum cheese danish @starbucks is so good. 10/10 would recommend.” Those comments show why this popular treat earns a place in seasonal menus.

Price‑wise it sits in the mid‑range for pastry items, but the puffy danish, enriched with a creamy plum cream filling, feels like a fancy upgrade over a standard croissant. If you want to boost the richest flavor, use full‑fat cream cheese and sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar before baking for an extra sparkle.

Fans often assemble the pastry ahead of time, then bake it just until the edges turn golden. To avoid overfilling, spoon the filling in a thin line and keep the dough edges neat. A few tricks I’ve learned include swapping the red plum jelly for apricot jam, adding a dash of nutmeg spices, or using a low‑fat cheese for a lighter bite.

• One tweeted that the danish was “SUPER soft” and “next‑level puffy.”
• Another pastry‑tweeted that a little extra butter makes it “little softer” and “little showier.”
• When a user shared a “downright disgruntled” comment about a soggy bottom, we quit playing and stopped playing with the bake time.

With these tricks along, the Danish becomes a delightful, low‑fat‑friendly indulgence that’s well worth the extra effort.

Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish vs Similar Starbucks Items

When you’re deciding between seasonal pastries, the Sugar Plum Cheese Danish stands out for its rich cream cheese filling and tart plum jam. Other holiday favorites, like the Classic Pumpkin Cream Cheese Danish and the Holiday Cinnamon Roll, offer different flavor profiles and calorie counts, giving you more options depending on your taste and budget.

• Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish – about $2.10, roughly 220 calories in a single serving.
• Classic Pumpkin Cream Cheese Danish – priced near $2.00, with about 210 calories.
• Holiday Cinnamon Roll – usually $1.90, but can reach 300 calories due to extra glaze and butter.

If calorie control is your priority, the Sugar Plum Danish is slightly higher in sugar than the Pumpkin variant but still lower than the Cinnamon Roll. For a sweeter, richer experience, the Cinnamon Roll’s dense glaze may be more appealing, whereas the Pumpkin option delivers a mellow, spiced taste. In terms of price, all three pastries are priced similarly, with the Sugar Plum Danish holding a middle ground.

Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you crave the tangy plum contrast, the classic pumpkin spice, or the indulgent cinnamon sweetness. Each item offers a distinct seasonal experience while staying within a comparable price range.

How to Order the Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish

When you walk up to the counter, ask for a Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish and specify the size you’d like—most locations serve the standard single portion, but some stores offer a “two‑for‑one” promotion during the holiday season.

If you want extra sweetness, request a light drizzle of caramel or a splash of vanilla‑bean syrup on the pastry. For a lighter option, you can ask for the Danish to be warmed without any added glaze.

• Specify “hot” or “cold” based on your preference; a warm Danish brings out the plum filling.
• Ask for a side of extra plum jam if you love a fruitier bite.
• For dietary needs, inquire about a gluten‑free pastry alternative, though availability varies by store.

Best Drink Pairings

Pair the sweet, tart flavor of a Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish with a beverage that balances its richness. A lightly sweetened iced Americano or a cold brew can cut through the creamy filling, while a hot latte offers a comforting, milder match. For a seasonal twist, try a vanilla latte topped with oat milk; the creamy texture echoes the pastry’s softness and the vanilla note complements the plum.

Frequently Asked Questions

What If I Can’t Find Plum Jam?

If plum jam isn’t on the shelf, you can substitute a seedless raspberry jam, which mimics the sweet‑tart flavor well enough for the Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish. Other popular options include Smucker’s Red Plum Jam, Gourmanity Victoria Plum Jam, or Stonewall Kitchen Sugar Plum Jam, all of which can be ordered from Amazon. For a homemade route, blend fresh plums with a little sugar and the spices from Marisa’s spiced plum jam recipe, then cook down until thick. Even a mixed‑berry or blueberry preserve can work if you’re looking for a similar fruit note.

If you’re a fan of berry jam, try a wide variety of red berry or blueberry preserves from a local grocery to add a different twist.

What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

The best results come from using ready‑made puff pastry sheets, which are sold frozen in the freezer aisle near the frozen pies. Pepperidge Farm is a reliable brand that many home bakers trust for its buttery layers and consistent rise. Avoid frozen phyllo dough, as it lacks the flaky puff needed for a proper danish. If you prefer a shortcut, you can also purchase pre‑shaped puff pastry shells, but the sheet form gives you more control over shaping and layering.

For a quick grocery store visit, look for a base recipe that already mixes the butter and flour to save time, and consider a gluten‑free pumpkin option if you want a seasonal twist.

What Equipment Do I Need?

You’ll need a standard bake setup: a muffin tin, a stand mixer with a mixing paddle or a large mixing bowl, a cookie sheet or parchment paper for lining, and an oven preheated to 350 °F (about 177 °C). For the puff pastry, have a floured surface ready to roll it out into squares. If you prefer a round shape like the Starbucks sugar plum cheese danish, a mini round cake pan works, but a cookie sheet can also produce rectangular pieces that are easier to handle. A spray bottle of coconut oil helps keep the muffin tin greased and prevents sticking.

Step 1: thaw the puff pastry, Step 2: roll the pasty dough into two sheets, Step 3: cut each sheet into four squares, Step 4: place squares into the prepared tin, Step 5: spoon the filling, Step 6: bake until golden brown, and Step 7: let them cool on a wire rack. Use oil spray on the tin and line the baking sheet with parchment for a clean release.

How Do I Store Leftover Danishes?

Store finished Starbucks sugar plum cheese danishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days; this keeps the temperature cream layer fresh and the pastry crisp. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven, air fryer, or microwave until just warmed—about 30 seconds in the microwave or a few minutes in the toaster oven. For longer storage, freeze the baked danishes in an airtight bag or container; they stay good for up to a month. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat until heated through.

The pastries remain flaky and delicious after reheating, making them a convenient breakfast treat or snack option for the week. If you have frozen danishes, you can also simply place them on a baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake until fully baked.

Ingredients 1/2x1x2x3x

Use one sheet of puff pastry, thawed and rolled out on a floured surface. Prepare the filling with 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1–2 tablespoons of powdered sugar, and ¼ cup of plum jam. Add ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon each of ground nutmeg and ground cloves for aroma. Mix the cream cheese with the sugar until smooth, then fold in the plum jam and spices. Roll the puff pastry, cut into squares, fill each square with the plum mixture, and bake as directed. Once baked, let them cool completely before serving; they are best enjoyed at room temperature.

If any leftovers remain, store leftovers in the freezer until needed.

Are There Any Allergen Concerns?

The Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish contains several common allergens. You’ll find egg, gluten, milk and wheat in the pastry and filling, while fish, peanuts, shellfish, soy and tree nuts are not listed as ingredients. However, because most fast‑food restaurants cannot guarantee a completely allergen‑free environment, it’s wise to check the Allergy Information at your location. Shared equipment in food restaurants means cross‑contamination with tree nuts or other allergens can occur, so if you have a severe allergy, ask staff whether they can confirm the product’s safety.

Top Recipe Tips for a Perfect Danish

For a flaky, French‑style puff pastry, keep the dough cold right up until you sheet it out. Lightly poke the holes before baking so the pastry puffs evenly and the filling stays in place. Brush the pastry with an egg wash before you place it in the oven; this creates a golden, crispy layer and helps the powdered sugar adhere to the edges of filled pastries.

Soften the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing. A well‑softened cheese blends smoothly with vanilla and sugar, preventing a lumpy batter. If the mixture is still stiff, give it a few seconds in the microwave, checking every 10 seconds until the consistency is smooth. For a glaze, whisk milk, powdered sugar and a dash of vanilla together until it resembles warm cream cheese frosting, then drizzle over the baked danishes.

• Keep the dough properly soft yet firm for an even rise.
• Apply eggwash before baking to seal the edges and ensure a shiny crust.
• Sprinkle sugar dusted on top for a sweet, crunchy finish.

What Should I Serve With the Danish?

A warm cup of Starbucks iced chai or a creamy cappuccino pairs especially well with the sweet plum filling and buttery crust. For a cooler option, try a Starbucks iced chocolate almond milk shaken espresso or an iced pumpkin latte copycat; the cool drink balances the rich pastry.

Round out the breakfast spread with fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait. The sweet filling of the Sugar Plum Cheese Danish shines beside the tartness of fruit, while the creamy yogurt adds a pleasant contrast. Together, these pairings create a balanced breakfast that feels both indulgent and satisfying.

Final Verdict

The Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish offers a delightful blend of flaky pastry, creamy cheese filling, and sweet plum jam that delivers a festive holiday experience in every bite. Its moderate price, balanced sweetness, and comforting texture make it a worthwhile treat for both casual coffee runs and special seasonal celebrations.

While the pastry isn’t as light as some bakery options, the rich cream cheese layer and vibrant plum flavor compensate, creating a memorable snack that pairs well with a warm latte or a refreshing iced coffee. If you enjoy a classic Danish with a holiday twist, this item is definitely a solid choice.

Overall, the Starbucks Sugar Plum Cheese Danish delivers good value for its flavor profile, convenience, and seasonal appeal, making it a top pick for anyone looking to indulge during the holiday season.