If you have a thing for pastries that combine flaky, buttery layers with luscious, creamy fillings and vibrant fresh fruit, you are going to fall head over heels for this Decadent Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe. It brings together the tangy smoothness of cream cheese and the juicy burst of blueberries nestled in golden puff pastry, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Every bite offers a chewy, creamy, and fruity delight that’s guaranteed to impress whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or a special dessert treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients that each play a vital role in delivering that irresistible taste and inviting appearance. From the flaky puff pastry sheets that serve as the buttery base, to the fresh blueberries that add natural sweetness and color, every item is essential in crafting these magnificent danishes.
- 2 puff pastry sheets: The flaky and buttery crust that forms the delicate base and edges of the danish.
- 8 oz cream cheese: Provides a rich, creamy filling that balances the sweetness of the berries perfectly.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling to latte-smooth perfection.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese filling.
- 1 large egg: Used to brush the pastry edges for a glossy, golden finish.
- 1 tsp water: Mixed with the egg to create the perfect egg wash for baking.
- 1 1/2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen): Bursting with juicy sweetness and vibrant color for a delicious topping.
- 2 tbsp water: Helps cook and soften the blueberries into a luscious topping.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Provides bright acidity to balance the sweetness and enhance the blueberry flavor.
- 1 tsp cornstarch: Thickens the blueberry topping to keep it nicely set on the danish.
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting): Adds a pretty finishing touch with a gentle sweetness.
How to Make Decadent Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pastry Base
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for baking these beauties. Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your danishes don’t stick and release easily after baking. Unfold your puff pastry sheets and cut each into 4 equal squares, giving you 8 perfect little pastries. To help your layers puff up evenly, score a 1/2-inch border around each square and prick the centers lightly with a fork to prevent puffing there. This step helps create that classic danish look with raised edges and a filled center.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy. This luscious blend will form the rich, tangy heart of your danish that contrasts delightfully against the sweet blueberry topping. Using a spoon, dollop about 1 tablespoon of this filling onto the center of each pastry square, being careful to stay inside the scored border. This ensures the filling doesn’t spill out when baking.
Step 3: Create the Blueberry Topping
Next, grab a small saucepan and combine the blueberries with 2 tablespoons of water and the lemon juice. Simmer this mixture gently for 3 to 5 minutes until the blueberries soften and release their juices, turning the sauce deep and lovely in color. Stir in the cornstarch and cook for another minute so the topping thickens slightly, making it perfect for spooning over the cream cheese. Allow this to cool a bit before proceeding—too hot and it will melt the cream cheese filling underneath.
Step 4: Assemble and Prepare for Baking
Carefully spoon about 1 tablespoon of the blueberry topping onto the cream cheese on each danish square. To add that iconic golden shimmer, whisk the egg and water together to create an egg wash, then brush this gently onto the puff pastry borders. This step helps achieve a gorgeous shine and beautiful browning during baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden Perfection
Slide your baking sheet into the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry has puffed up and turned a stunning golden brown. Once baked, let the danishes cool slightly on a rack so they firm up just enough for easy handling. If you want to add an elegant finishing touch, lightly dust with powdered sugar before serving—this creates a delicate sweetness and an appealing presentation.
How to Serve Decadent Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a light veil of powdered sugar not only adds a touch of sweetness but also elevates the visual appeal with a snowy finish. Fresh mint leaves are a lovely garnish option too, adding a pop of color and refreshing aroma to complement the rich cream cheese and sweet berries.
Side Dishes
These danishes shine brightest when paired with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte, making them an irresistible treat for morning indulgence or afternoon tea. For a heartier brunch, try accompanying with fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the pastry.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the danishes on a rustic wooden board alongside small bowls of additional cream cheese or blueberry sauce for an interactive and elegant setup. Alternatively, cut into smaller pieces for a delightful finger-food option at parties or gatherings where guests can enjoy bite-sized bursts of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This short storage time helps maintain that flaky texture and fresh flavor without sacrificing the cream cheese’s creaminess or the blueberries’ brightness.
Freezing
You can freeze these delightful danishes! Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To revive the flaky, buttery goodness, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the pastry soggy. The oven brings back that crisp exterior and warmed filling just like freshly baked!
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work wonderfully here. Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before cooking the blueberry topping to avoid excess moisture in your danishes.
Do I have to make the blueberry topping from scratch?
Making the blueberry topping from scratch gives you full control over sweetness and thickness, plus it has a fresh flavor that canned toppings cannot match. However, in a pinch, high-quality store-bought blueberry preserves can be used as a shortcut.
What can I substitute for puff pastry?
Puff pastry is key for that signature flaky texture and buttery flavor. If unavailable, you could try a laminated croissant dough or phyllo dough, though the texture and taste will vary. Ready-made refrigerated pie crusts are another option but expect a less flaky result.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Since this recipe includes cream cheese, egg wash, and puff pastry that often contains butter, it is not vegan as written. However, you can use vegan puff pastry and substitute vegan cream cheese and an egg replacer to adapt it perfectly.
Can I prepare these danishes ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! Assemble the danishes on the baking sheet, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature and brush with egg wash right before baking for the best puff and color.
Final Thoughts
If you want to elevate your pastry game with something truly show-stopping but surprisingly easy, the Decadent Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe is your golden ticket. Its blend of flaky layers, creamy filling, and luscious berries makes it a crowd-pleaser that feels both homemade and gourmet. I can’t wait for you to try it and create your own moments of joy around this beautiful, flavorful treat.
Print
Decadent Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in homemade Decadent Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish, featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy sweetened cream cheese mixture and topped with a luscious blueberry compote. Baked to golden perfection and optionally dusted with powdered sugar, these Danish pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an elegant dessert.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 2 puff pastry sheets
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Blueberry Topping
- 1 1/2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp water
Optional Garnish
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cut Puff Pastry: Unfold both puff pastry sheets and cut each into 4 equal squares to yield a total of 8 squares. Score a half-inch border around each square and prick the centers with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Mix Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Fill the Pastry: Spoon approximately one tablespoon of the cream cheese filling into the center of each puff pastry square, staying within the scored border.
- Cook Blueberries: In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, 2 tablespoons of water, and lemon juice. Simmer over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes until the blueberries soften and release their juices.
- Thicken Blueberry Topping: Stir in the cornstarch and continue to cook for another minute until the mixture thickens into a glossy compote. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly to avoid melting the cream cheese when added.
- Top Pastries: Spoon about one tablespoon of the blueberry topping evenly over the cream cheese filling on each puff pastry square.
- Apply Egg Wash: Whisk the egg and 1 teaspoon of water together to make an egg wash. Brush this wash carefully on the scored pastry borders to promote a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake: Place the prepared pastries on the baking sheet and bake for 18 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the puff pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the danishes to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, sprinkle with powdered sugar to add a delicate sweetness and elegant finish.
Notes
- For best results, use cold puff pastry to ensure maximum flakiness.
- You can substitute frozen blueberries for fresh; just thaw before cooking.
- Prepare the blueberry topping in advance and refrigerate if needed, rewarming gently before use.
- Use aluminum foil or silicone baking mats as alternatives for lining your baking sheet.
- Dusting with powdered sugar is optional but enhances presentation and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
